Feature Spotlight #63 - Sharron Kennovin

Unshakeable. Unstoppable. Unwritten Limits. Sharron Kennovin’s Title Story.

This week, we are honored to shine our Her.Collective Featured Spotlight on a woman whose story reflects resilience, courage, and a lifelong commitment to lifting others: Sharron Kennovin, Assistant Vice President and Agency Representative with Old Republic Title.

With more than three decades of experience and nine years supporting agents across Virginia, Sharron has become a trusted voice, a steady leader, and a true champion for women in the title industry. Now serving as President of VLTA, her deep expertise—paired with her calm, grounded grit—will undoubtedly shape and strengthen the association this year.

From College Job to Lifelong Passion.

Sharron entered the title industry in 1991 while attending college in Richmond, VA, and immediately connected with the joy she witnessed in homebuyers at the closing table. She learned the fundamentals from the ground up, beginning with HUD statements (now Closing Disclosures), and soon realized she was meant to build a career in real estate.

A move to Hampton Roads expanded her path. From law firms to settlement operations to national sales, Sharron has done it all: owning a settlement company, managing legal teams, overseeing foreclosures and short sales, and now supporting agents across the Commonwealth.

This experience gives her a rare 360-degree view of the business—one that makes her not just knowledgeable, but deeply empathetic to the people she serves.

Breaking Barriers and Building Confidence.

Early in her career, Sharron was told she couldn’t move into sales because of her age and gender. “I was told directly that this wasn’t possible because I was a woman and a mother, and that there was no place for women in their Real Estate Sales Department. That experience made me realize I would need to work three times harder to achieve the success I envisioned.” Instead of shrinking, she left that company, choosing a company that would align with her talent and ambition.

Today, she credits Carolyn Monroe, President of Old Republic Title, as a leader who demonstrates what’s possible for women when opportunity meets vision. Sharron’s journey is proof that perseverance, hard work, and belief in oneself can break any barrier placed in the way.

Advice for the Next Generation.

To younger women entering this industry, Sharron emphasizes one thing: get involved.

Immerse yourself in every piece of the business. Join your local LTA. Seek out people who will pour into you. Build a network that inspires and challenges you. “Our industry needs new voices and fresh perspectives.”

Her message is both grounding and empowering, your growth is in your hands, but your community will help you grow.

Her Why: Knowledge, Impact, and Empowering Others.

Sharron’s driving force has always been her love of learning. But over time, her “why” expanded. Now, her purpose is about sharing what she’s learned with others. 

“If I can help others grow and reach their potential, then I’ve accomplished something far greater than any title or position.”

 It’s a philosophy that shows up in every conversation she has, every agent she supports, and every woman she encourages.

Grace Under Pressure.

Sharron’s strength comes from overcoming adversity early in life. That resilience shaped her calm, confident approach to facing challenges:

• Stay composed.

• Own your mistakes.

• Speak with purpose, not volume.

“This belief has carried me through every stage of my career. It reminds me that grit isn’t about avoiding obstacles—it’s about facing them head-on, learning from them, and using them as fuel to keep moving forward.”

Character as a Leadership Strategy.

When asked whether the industry needs more women who lead with character, integrity, and mentorship, Sharron doesn’t hesitate: “Absolutely.”

Experience matters but character builds cultures. And when women commit to supporting each other—sharing knowledge, creating opportunities, and leading with compassion—the entire industry is better for it.

Her Village and Her World Outside of Work.

Sharron is a proud mom to three grown daughters (28, 30, and 31), a wife, and dog mom to Bulleit, their Labrador named after the bourbon.

She and her husband live part-time in an RV resort on the Intracoastal Waterway—where weekends are spent boating with friends, listening to live bands, and volunteering within the community.

A fun twist?

She buys liquidation pallets of women’s clothing—swimwear, apparel, and more—and resells them at deep discounts so women can shop affordably. “Keep your money,” she says. “Use it for something that matters.”

A Few Personal Favorites.

• First concert: Tim McGraw (while pregnant with her oldest!)

• Favorite book: Let Them by Mel Robbins

• Go-to podcast: Mel Robbins and inspiring stories of people overcoming adversity

Her Life Philosophy.

The philosophy she lives by is “you get 24 hours to feel sad or disappointed about any situation. After that, pick yourself up and move forward.”

Sharron believes firmly that you are only stuck if you choose to stay stuck. Her life’s path—rising from a challenging childhood to building a respected, meaningful career proves that mindset is everything.

Her Legacy.

Sharron hopes to be remembered for how she helped others grow, by giving her time, her knowledge, and her encouragement freely. “I want to be known as someone who lifted others up and helped them succeed.”

Her legacy is already unfolding through the women she supports, the agents she serves, and the example she sets.

A Final Message for Her.Collective.

Her most meaningful work outside the office has been helping women through a domestic violence organization—many of whom simply needed a mentor to help rebuild their confidence and remind them of their worth.

(Obsessed with those champagne

earrings — that’s true boss style.)

Her message to the women of Her.Collective:

“You can have a family, build a career, and be successful. And you don’t have to do it alone. Surround yourself with women who lift you higher.”

Sharron, thank you for your heart, your leadership, and your generosity. Thank you for showing us what strength looks like. We are honored to share your title story. You are the definition of a classy Woman of Title.

*Connect with Sharron here: SKennovin@OldRepublicTitle.com I LinkedIn I Instagram I Facebook

Feature Spotlight #62 - Sharon Dixon

Leading with Integrity, Grit, and a Heart for Others.

This week, our Her.Collective Women of Title Spotlight highlights a true powerhouse in the industry — Sharon Dixon, President of Colorado Operations for Fidelity National Title Company.

With an incredible 44 years in title insurance, Sharon’s career stands as a testament to integrity, resilience, and heart. She’s built her legacy on hard work, authenticity, and a core belief of building others through example and leadership.

From Summer Job to Lifelong Calling.

Sharon’s story began with what she thought would be a short-term gig. “I was trying to earn enough money to go back to college at the Colorado School of Mines,” she recalls with a laugh. “I took a job as a delivery person for a title company, just for the summer. And here I am, 44 years later.”

That temporary job turned into a lifelong passion for real estate, business development, and leadership. Today, she oversees Fidelity National Title’s Colorado operations, where she mentors teams, drives growth, and models what strong, authentic leadership looks like.

A Legacy Built on Grit and Grace.

Sharon credits her parents, especially her father, as her greatest source of inspiration.

“My Dad was my mentor,” she says. “He taught me the value of hard work and perseverance.”

That early foundation shaped the no-nonsense, deeply compassionate leader she’s become — one who leads with both strategy and heart.

But her journey wasn’t without challenges. “This is going to be candid,” Sharon shares. “One of the hardest parts of being a woman in title has been other women not supporting each other. It’s only recently that we’ve started to change that. Gender bias and lack of funding have also been real hurdles.”

Even so, Sharon’s response has never been bitterness — it’s been action. She’s become a champion for collaboration, mentorship, and helping other women build confidence, community, and financial independence.

Confidence, Common Sense, and a Powerful ‘Why.’

When asked where her confidence comes from, Sharon’s answer is refreshingly honest.

“I’ve always been confident in my abilities, just not my appearance!” she jokes. “I’m smart and have a lot of common sense. I can figure anything out.”

Her why is as grounded as it is inspiring: “I want to help others, and myself, become financially independent. That’s super important to me, especially with my employees. I want them to feel secure and capable.” That belief — that empowerment is both personal and financial — has shaped how Sharon leads and how she lifts others around her.

The Heart of a True Leader.

Sharon’s colleagues describe her as the kind of leader everyone wants in their corner

“Sharon is the type of person who doesn’t meet you halfway — she helps you completely. When there’s a problem, she finds a solution and takes it on as if it were hers. The outcome always changes because of her. Her leadership and experience are the difference between failure and success.”

That spirit of ownership and empathy defines her. Whether mentoring new professionals or guiding complex business challenges, Sharon leads with purpose — always putting people over ego.

Advice for the Next Generation.

For women entering the title industry, Sharon offers timeless, practical advice:

·         Connect with others who will push and support you.

·         Work hard — this career rewards it.

·         Know that you don’t need a degree to thrive here.

And when faced with difficult people or tough situations? Sharon’s wisdom shines:

“Stay calm and grounded. Don’t be reactive. Listen — don’t interrupt. Be respectful and ask questions so you understand before assuming. Be open to pivot if you need to, and always be solution-oriented. And if someone crosses the line — know when to escalate.”

Finding Joy Beyond the Job.

Outside of work, Sharon is a woman with many passions and a heart full of love.

She’s married to “the nicest man I’ve ever met,” she says, and together they share a beautiful, blended family, including three amazing grandchildren and three beloved dogs.

When she’s not leading teams or mentoring others, Sharon finds peace and creativity in her hobbies — collecting rocks and creating stained glass art.

Her first concert? ZZ Top. “I have too many favorite bands to list,” she laughs. “Music’s always been part of my joy.”

Philosophy and Purpose.

If Sharon had to sum up her life philosophy in one breath, it would be this:

“Integrity. Purpose. Work hard. People over ego. Help others.”

She lives by those words — every meeting, every mentorship moment, every decision.

A Legacy of Impact.

When asked what she hopes her legacy will be, Sharon’s answer captures her essence perfectly: “That I made a difference in people’s lives for the better. That I helped them.”

It’s a simple yet powerful mission — one she’s already achieved many times over.

The Woman Behind the Strength.

Sharon’s inner strength seems almost unshakable — but she insists it’s something she was born with, and something her parents nurtured deeply. “I think I was just made this way,” she smiles. “But I also had parents who modeled grit, compassion, and resilience every single day.”

That combination of innate toughness and learned empathy is exactly what’s made her one of the most respected leaders in the business.

Final Words for the Women of Her.Collective.

Sharon’s closing message to the women of title is heartfelt and empowering:

“Be confident in who you are and what you bring. Don’t wait for someone to validate your worth. Work hard, lead with integrity, and support each other — truly support each other. We rise so much higher when we lift together.”

Sharon Dixon is proof that strength and kindness can coexist — that success built on service, purpose, and authenticity creates ripples far beyond the closing table.

For over four decades, she’s led with courage, compassion, and character, reminding us all that the best leaders don’t just open doors… they hold them open for others to walk through.

We are honored to get to share Sharon’s title story with Her.Collective. May we all be empowered and inspired by the path she has left for all of women of title.

*Connect with Sharon here: SDixon@fnf.com I LinkedIn I Instagram I Facebook

Feature Spotlight #61 - Ann Allard

Ann Riley Allard – Finding the Joy in Every Chapter.

This week’s Her.Collective Spotlight shines on a woman whose career is as inspiring as it is impactful — Ann Riley Allard, of Old Republic Title, who has spent nearly three decades shaping, teaching, and uplifting others in the title industry.

Rooted in Real Estate and Resilience.

Ann’s journey in title insurance began long before she ever joined the industry. What started as an after-school job at a law office during high school quickly became a calling — one that intertwined her love of law, people, and property.

Mentored by a generous attorney, Ann learned every aspect of the business: from title examination to client relations and lender coordination. One summer, she worked on a fascinating project for the Department of Natural Resources, tracing titles for abandoned railroad tracks that would later become walking trails and bike paths across Massachusetts.

“I spent my days in courthouses and my evenings soaking in Cape Cod’s charm — beaches, gift shops, and baseball games,” she recalls. “That experience sparked my lifelong love for both the work and the world of real estate.”

After gaining years of legal experience, Ann took an entrepreneurial leap, co-founding a real estate paralegal business that supported law firms across the region. “It was an innovative idea at the time,” she says. “And it taught me how to listen, solve problems, and build something from the ground up.”

When the 2008 financial crisis hit, Ann — like so many — faced uncertainty. But she used that season to serve, volunteering for a presidential campaign where she applied her sales and leadership skills in a whole new arena. The experience reignited her passion for connecting with people and eventually led her to Old Republic Title, where she’s thrived since 2009.

Today, Ann serves in Agency Educational Training and Business Development, where she designs and delivers impactful training programs, mentorship initiatives, and business growth strategies — helping agents and professionals nationwide rise to their full potential.

Women Who Inspire.

In a time when women leaders in title were few and far between, one woman made an unforgettable impact on Ann — Annie (AG), the only female associate at a law firm where Ann once worked.

“She was brilliant, tireless, and courageous,” Ann remembers. “Even when she faced resistance, she advocated for herself and pursued partnership until she became a Probate Court Judge. Watching her navigate her career with conviction taught me that women can break barriers, and that we must also reach back to lift others as we climb.”

Challenges that Shape and Strengthen.

Ann’s career hasn’t been without challenges. One of her toughest lessons came early, learning to manage former colleagues who were also friends. “I wish I’d recognized that dynamic sooner and sought advice from someone who’d walked that path,” she reflects. “It taught me the importance of boundaries, humility, and grace in leadership.”

Words of Wisdom for Women Entering Title.

Ann’s advice for the next generation of title women is both heartfelt and practical:

• Find a mentor. Someone who will guide, challenge, and champion you.

• Use your voice. Speak up and take risks — even when it feels uncomfortable.

• Explore your path. If one area doesn’t light you up, there’s another waiting for you.

• Protect your balance. “There are no real emergencies in title,” she reminds. “Save your energy for the true ones — the family moments that matter most.”

The Heart of Her ‘Why.’

At her core, Ann is driven by a deep sense of integrity and purpose. “My why has always been about finishing what I start, honoring commitments, and helping others grow,” she says.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than watching someone find their confidence, especially when they didn’t see it in themselves yet.”

Finding Strength in Her Roots.

Ann credits much of her strength to her mother, a woman who survived polio in the 1950s and went on to live a full, determined life. “She learned to walk again with crutches and braces and even drove a car with hand controls,” Ann shares. “Her resilience taught me that strength doesn’t need to be loud. It just needs to be steady.”

Joy, Family, and the Power of a Village.

Ann’s world is filled with family, laughter, and love. She’s one of four siblings — “the best gift my parents ever gave me” — and a proud mother of two grown children. “My daughter and I grew up together,” she smiles. “When my son arrived eight years later, I was more grounded and ready for the ride.”

And now, there’s Lilly, her granddaughter and self-proclaimed “treasure of my soul.” “Her joy is contagious,” Ann says. “She reminds me daily of what matters most: love, laughter, and leaving a legacy that matters.”

Surprises, Songs, and Standing Tall.

Outside of work, Ann is always up for a challenge — whether it’s tackling a new skill or conquering a literal leap of faith. At a leadership retreat, she once climbed a 50-foot pole, stood at the top, and jumped to grab a trapeze bar. “I’m not an athlete,” she laughs, “but that moment taught me that if I stay focused, I can do hard things.”

Her first concert? The Beatles, live at Suffolk Downs. “It was pure magic,” she says. “And yes — I still remember every lyric!”

The Legacy She Hopes to Leave.

Ann’s professional mantra is simple but profound: Find the joy!

“I’ve learned that joy is a choice — and it changes everything,” she says. “Whether it’s celebrating a client win, guiding a new hire, or solving a tough problem, I try to find the joy in every moment.”

When asked about her legacy, her response captures her spirit perfectly:

“I hope to be remembered as someone who showed up for others — who encouraged, included, and believed in what’s possible. If I’ve helped even one woman find her voice or take a risk she might not have otherwise, then I’ve done something that matters.”

Final Thoughts for the Women of Her.Collective.

 Ann leaves us with words that encapsulate her grace, strength, and optimism,

“To all the women in title: you belong here. Your voice, your ideas, your leadership — they matter. Don’t wait for permission to rise. Lift others as you climb. Lead with courage, character, and joy. That’s how we change this industry — and the lives within it.”

Ann Riley Allard is proof that true leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about impact. Through every chapter of her journey, she’s led with wisdom, humor, and heart, reminding us that in both business and life, the real success lies in finding the joy along the way.

*Connect with Ann here: aallard@OldRepublicTitle.com I LinkedIn