Feature Spotlight #48 - Terri Hanson

Leading with Vision: A Women of Title Spotlight

President & CEO, VizionX, LLC

In the title industry, there are women who rise quietly and then there are those whose presence shifts the conversation. Terri Hanson is one of those women. With decades of experience, a visionary approach to technology, and a passion for people that radiates from every conversation, Terri is not just leading; she’s changing the way leadership looks and feels in our space.

As the President and CEO of VizionX, LLC, Terri’s professional path has woven through some of the most respected names in title and software; yet her story begins with something incredibly humble: courthouse copies.

The Accidental Beginning of a Lifelong Calling

Terri’s first step into the industry came as a teenager in Northern Colorado, when her mother, who worked at the Clerk and Recorder’s office, helped her land a job as a “poster” at Transamerica Title. She would spend her days making copies of recorded documents at the courthouse, bringing them back to the office, and pasting them into large tract books, page by page, line by line.

It was tedious work, but it sparked something—a respect for the process and a curiosity about what it all meant. At the time, she didn’t fully understand the depth of what title professionals did—not yet. That connection would come later, when she bought her first home. That’s when everything clicked; the documents, the closings, the purpose. The weight of the work she’d once simply filed became deeply meaningful. “That was the moment I truly understood the importance of each step in the process,” she says.

A Career Built on Curiosity, Technology & Trust

Over the years, Terri carved a reputation as a forward-thinking leader and a powerhouse in title technology. She spent 16 years with Stewart Title, working alongside some of the industry’s best minds. She then joined Adeptive Software, the creators of Resware, where she spent another decade immersed in tech solutions that streamlined and elevated how title companies operated.

She has also brought her talents to smaller firms, which gave her an even greater appreciation for the diversity of operations across the country. Now, at the helm of VizionX, she blends her love of systems and strategy with a people-first mindset that shapes everything she does. Her expertise lies in identifying gaps, implementing better workflows, and—most of all—bringing together teams who trust one another and believe in the mission. “I’ve always been passionate about technology,” she explains, “but it’s the people that make it all matter.”

Mentorship, Modeling, and a Woman Named Lee Ann

Throughout her journey, one woman stood out as a guiding light: Lee Ann Fenske, a colleague from her Stewart Title days. “She had a rare balance,” Terri shares. “She was professional and polished, but also deeply personable. She led with fairness and built people up around her. I admired how she made people feel seen and respected.”

That example stuck with Terri. Today, she pays it forward in every role she takes—training, mentoring, and quietly lifting those around her. Her philosophy? Elevate others, and you elevate the whole industry.

A Word for the New Generation of Women Of Title

Terri is a firm believer that this industry can hold a place for anyone with passion and curiosity. Her advice to younger women coming into title?

“Be curious. Ask questions. Explore. There are so many paths in this business—and when you find what lights you up, you’ll know.”

Interestingly, her own background is in French, not business or tech. She once planned to be a teacher, and in many ways, she fulfilled that vision by training teams across the country on software systems. Her role married two of her greatest passions: learning and traveling. The career she once stumbled into became a passport to experiences and relationships she never could’ve imagined.

Strength, Grace & the Art of Listening First

In a world that often rewards the loudest voice, Terri has found strength in stepping back. When asked how she deals with difficult personalities or aggressive behavior, she responds with thoughtful calm. “I try to give people space. I’ve found that most of the time, there’s something deeper going on. Asking questions rather than being defensive usually draws out the real issue—something we can then actually solve.” Her leadership style is built not on command, but connection. She listens. She trusts. She leads with quiet confidence that earns respect because it’s so rare.

EOS, Elevation, and a Love for Learning

One of the most transformational tools in Terri’s journey has been the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)—not just a business framework, but a complete shift in how she viewed leadership, teamwork, and growth.

“It changed everything,” she says. “It helped the company I was with grow, but more importantly, it made me a better manager, colleague, and human being.” One of her favorite EOS mantras is “Delegate to Elevate,” a phrase that now defines how she empowers others to rise.

Her “Why” Is Bigger Than the Business

When asked what drives her to keep showing up, keep innovating, and keep mentoring, Terri’s answer is both simple and profound: giving back.

“This industry is full of amazing people. If you’re willing to work hard, stay curious, and serve others, you’ll go far. My ‘why’ has always been to give back to the people who poured into me.”

That heart for others is what makes her leadership so magnetic.

And it’s not confined to her job.

A Life Rooted in Purpose, Inside and Out

Terri and her husband, Tory—a retired teacher and coach—live a life of intentional impact. Though they don’t have children of their own, they’ve mentored many young people and built a “village” of relationships that keep them connected, grounded, and young at heart.

Terri also serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), supporting children in the foster system—a role she describes as one of her greatest passions. “It keeps me rooted in purpose. And it reminds me daily why empathy, patience, and showing up for others matters.”

Final Fun Facts & Personal Touches

Her first concert? Bruce Springsteen, a big moment for a girl from Northern Colorado who drove to Denver at 16 to see The Boss. These days, she listens to Chris Stapleton Radio on SiriusXM for its rich mix of genres.

Her word (or rather, her two words) to live by? People First. “Everyone we meet is a person before they’re a role or a title. I care so much more about who they are than what they do.”

And when asked what she hopes her legacy will be, she says simply, “that I truly cared for people, whether they were a customer, a colleague, or an industry connection. I hope they felt that.”

To the Women of Her.Collective…

Terri’s parting words are a gracious nod to the women rising alongside her, "It’s incredibly encouraging to see this platform, these conversations, these stories being told. We need more of this. And we need more women building one another up, sharing wisdom, and showing the next generation what’s possible.”

Her. the Title Collective is proud to honor Terri Hanson as this week’s Woman of Title—a leader whose elegance, experience, and heart have shaped teams, companies, and countless careers. Her story reminds us that success isn’t just about achievement. It’s about integrity. And about how you make people feel along the way.

*Connect with Terri here: thanson@vizionx.com I LinkedIn I Instagram I Facebook

Feature Spotlight #47 - Jessica LaFair

Woman on Fire, Jessica LaFair.

Owner, Cottonwood Title Company, LLC – North Texas

A Legacy Written in Ink and Integrity.

For Jessica LaFair, the title insurance industry is more than a career, it’s a birthright. Raised in North Texas, Jessica grew up surrounded by strong women, paperwork, closings, and client conversations. She’s the daughter of Laurie Davis, the first woman to own a title company in the region. Laurie’s influential leadership paved the way for many others in the field.

While Jessica’s professional path officially began in 2008, her immersion in the business goes back to childhood. “I was printing and filing papers at six years old,” she recalls. That early exposure wasn’t just a glimpse into the industry, but a masterclass in resilience, work ethic, and purpose.

In 2020, Jessica opened Cottonwood Title Company, LLC. At just 27 years old, she became the youngest title company owner in Texas history. This milestone reflects both her ambition, and the powerful example set before her. “This industry is in my DNA,” she says. “I was raised to respect it, to challenge it, and ultimately to elevate it.”

Building a Company on Grit, Grace, and Expertise.

Jessica’s leadership style reflects both her depth of knowledge and her heart for people. Her company specializes in estates and curation—areas that require not only precision but also sensitivity and care. She leads with empathy, always seeking to meet clients and partners where they are while delivering consistent, competent results.

Her team, handpicked and deeply trusted, reflects the values she holds dear: integrity, loyalty, and purpose-driven work.

“I don’t just want to close deals, I want to help people feel seen, supported, and secure in the process.”

She’s created a workplace culture that champions both personal growth and professional excellence, and her company stands as a reflection of her deep respect for the industry and her desire to make it better for those who follow.

Turning Barriers Into Building Blocks.

Like many women forging their way in historically male-dominated fields, Jessica has encountered resistance, doubt, and bias. But instead of letting these challenges define her, she chose to let them refine her.

“As a young woman, there were assumptions made—about my experience, my leadership, even my ability to run a company,” she says. “But I believe competency and drive don’t belong to one gender or generation. They belong to anyone who chooses to persevere forward.”

With every doubter, she doubled down. With every obstacle, she became more determined. Her story is a testament to what’s possible when you lead with conviction and clarity.

Wisdom for the Women Coming Up Next.

Jessica’s advice for younger women entering the title industry is honest, actionable, and deeply earned. “Learn absolutely everything you can,” she says. “Knowledge is your greatest advantage. And listen—especially to those who challenge you. Even the unkind ones have something to teach you, even if it’s what not to do.”

She emphasizes mentorship, curiosity, and humility as cornerstones of growth and encourages women not to shy away from hard lessons or hard conversations. “It’s all part of building your foundation.”

Rooted in Faith, Driven by Legacy.

Jessica’s internal compass is powered by her faith. “My strength comes from the graces of Christ first and foremost,” she says. “Everything I’ve accomplished is because God said, ‘Against all odds, with Me you will succeed.’”

Her motivation runs deep: to honor her mother’s legacy, to lead with purpose, and to be a living example for her children. “My goal is not just to succeed,” she shares. “It’s to show others what it looks like to walk through adversity with grace—and to never stop believing that you are called for more.”

On Handling Adversity with Poise and Purpose.

Jessica’s approach to conflict is refreshingly wise. “An aggressor is simply an opportunity,” she says. “You can either grow from it or set the example that leads others to grow.”

Rather than reacting with ego, she leans into composure and discernment, modeling what it looks like to lead with emotional maturity and self-control. Her approach is disarming, inspiring, and deeply rooted in her values.

A Legacy of Integrity, Loyalty, and Kindness.

When asked how she wants to be remembered in this industry, Jessica’s response is as bold as it is beautiful:

“I want to be known as a woman who, even in a den of adversaries, remained steadfast in her integrity—capable, loyal, and kind.”

Her goal isn’t to be the loudest voice in the room—but the most consistent one. “I hope to lead in a way that honors the women who came before me and creates space for the women coming next.”

The Village Behind the Vision.

Jessica’s personal journey is just as powerful as her professional one. When she started her company, she was a single mother to two young boys. Today, she’s a mother of four, surrounded by love, support, and a growing village.

“I found my love, expanded my family, and built a community that lifts me daily,” she says. Her village includes her family, parents, close friends who’ve become family, trusted mentors like Laurie Davis and Steve Hester, and the loyal team that stands beside her every step of the way.

Creative Spirit, Unexpected Passions.

Outside of title, Jessica is an adventurer at heart. She loves public speaking, exploring the arts through painting and pottery, and going on spontaneous adventures with her children. “Most people don’t expect that side of me,” she laughs. “But it’s where I recharge and reconnect.”

While she doesn’t have a favorite concert or band, she treasures the nostalgic soundtrack of her childhood—Johnny Cash, Jimmy Dean, Cher, The Beatles, Alan Jackson, and The Beach Boys. “It’s not about the artist,” she says. “It’s about the memories.”

Her Word: Christ-like.

If Jessica had to choose one word to define her work and life philosophy, it would be this: Christ-like. It’s the lens through which she leads, serves, and lives—always striving to show love, grace, and strength in all that she does.

Recommended Reads & Resources.

• Favorite Book: My Dinosaur – a children’s book about a girl who follows her curiosity and courage into the unknown, accompanied by her dinosaur companion. “It reminds me to keep dreaming, even as an adult,” Jessica shares.

• Go-To Podcasts: Biblical teachings, Dave Ramsey’s financial wisdom, and marriage podcasts that help her stay grounded in all areas of life.

A Final Word to Her.Collective.

“I truly believe anyone can accomplish what I’ve done. I’ve just been fortunate to steward these opportunities with faith and support. My prayer is to bring honor to the position I’ve been given—and to leave a path others can walk even stronger.”

Jessica LaFair, thank you for being a builder of legacy, a woman of unwavering conviction, and a shining example of what it means to lead with both grit and grace. The title industry is better because you’re in it. You are a shining example and empowering voice within Her.collective!

*Connect with Jessica here: jessica@cottonwoodtc.com  I LinkedIn I Instagram I Facebook

Feature Spotlight #46 - Kimberley Tonarelli

Women of Title Spotlight.

Featuring: Kimberley Tonarelli Company: Property Insight, a division of Fidelity National Financial Location: Las Vegas, Nevada Role: Senior Sales Executive / Solutions Consultant 

A Woman of Grit, Grace & Voice.

Kimberley Tonarelli is a 20-year veteran of the title insurance industry whose journey began at Property Insight—where she now proudly calls home again after 15 years at First American Financial DataTrace division. “Coming back to Property Insight feels like returning to family,” she says, “The people, the culture, and our President, Nikki Bell—an incredible woman leader at the helm—makes this place feel right.”

Kimberley’s story starts far from real estate—in the high-stakes world of telecom. “I cut my teeth at MCI, resolving failed network lines for Fortune 10 clients. It was intense—365 days a year and 24/7, no excuses, no softness. It was a man’s world, and I had to learn to be heard.” Those early years shaped her grit, her sense of urgency, and her unwavering voice. “It’s where I discovered that I could not only survive—but lead.”

On Mentors, Mindsets, and Moments.

When asked who shaped her path, Kimberley names Deb Horn, her lifelong mentor and life coach. “She challenged me to lead with both fire and grace,” Kimberley reflects.

But it has not all been smooth. “Equal work and pay are still a battle,” she admits. “And many of us have been the only woman in the room more times than we can count.”

Her advice to the next generation?

“Speak up in that meeting where no one looks like you. Step into roles before you feel ready. Negotiate without apologizing. And lead with empathy, not ego. When you silence your own bravery, you reinforce a culture that doubts women’s power.”

“Why” She Shows Up.

Kimberley’s “why” runs deep. “I love my clients. I love earning their trust through solutions that make them heroes to their teams and executive reports. But it is deeper than that. Character builds trust, and trust builds loyalty. Your name becomes your brand—and I have built mine on integrity.”

She also draws strength from years as a single mother. “There were holidays and Christmases spent at work, with my boys’ feeding quarters into vending machines while I pulled a shift. That was our holiday; albeit not the best of holiday memories, but we were together. You learn to smile when you want to cry. That is where grit is born—in the grind, not the glory.”

Lessons, Legacies & Leading Women.

If she could speak to her 20-year-old self, Kimberley would say:

1.      You do not have to be perfect to lead.

2.      Confidence is built through action.

3.      The hard moments will become your strength.

She’s learned to handle aggressors with composure. “Stay neutral. Do not match energy. Breathe. Pause. Protect your peace, your power, your professionalism.”

Beyond the boardroom, Kimberley cherishes every moment with her family. Her colleagues might be surprised by her passion for exotic cars, track racing, and Friday nights at the gun range, where she is earning her CCW.

She holds dear the memory of her late mother, her biggest fan, who often asked, “Why not the kitchen?” Kimberley smiles and responds, “Because I was called to break boundaries,

Mom. I wanted to lead in places where women were not always welcomed.”

Words to Live By.

“The only chance you miss is the one you didn’t take.” Kimberley’s guiding philosophy is courage in action: “Gravitate toward problems. Raise your hand. Speak up. The three C’s—Clarity, Conviction, and Consistency—will get you further than talent alone.”

Her Legacy.

"I want to be remembered for my integrity, as a kind person with the best intentions and a drive to succeed as a woman in the corporate world. I also want to be remembered for mentoring the next generation, for leaving the light on so another woman doesn’t have to fight the same battles I did."

A Personal Anecdote.

One of Kimberley's fondest memories is the day she took her mother for a ride in her first exotic car. Her mother, initially apprehensive, soon found herself laughing and enjoying the thrill. "This is why I do what I do," Kimberley thought, "to share these moments of joy and freedom with the people I love."

Final Thoughts.

Her final message to the women of Her, Collective is simple and powerful:

“Stand your ground without losing grace. If my journey helps just one woman skip a battle I had to fight alone, then THAT is my legacy."

Thank you, Kimberley for allowing us to share your title insurance story! Her. Collective can take a lot from your experience, grace, and grit! We honor you!

*Connect with Kimberley here: kimberley.tonarelli@propertyinsight.biz I LinkedIn