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Steve Black (’78) was named the 2021 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year during Lee’s Homecoming last week. This award is the highest honor given by the university to alumni and is given to a graduate who demonstrates excellence in his or her career, while also embracing the values that Lee embodies.

“Steve Black’s service to the church, the community, and to Lee directly make him the perfect choice as our Distinguished Alum of the Year,” said Dr. Brad Moffett, vice president of university relations at Lee. “He embodies the essence of what we hope all our alums represent.”

Black is the broker/owner and operating principal of KW Cleveland Keller Williams, the leading real estate firm in Cleveland/Bradley County. With over 110 real estate associates and staff, they have collectively served over 10,750 clients with over $2 billion in closed sales since opening in October 2007. Many of those clients include cabinet, administration, staff, faculty, and alumni of Lee University.

“Being named the Distinguished Alumnus of the Year was such a great honor for me,” said Black. “I am forever grateful for the investment made by the faculty, professors, and administration of Lee University in placing the desire for excellence and success in me years ago.”

Black received his real estate license in July 1996 and his broker license in February 2004. He has earned numerous real estate designations, and he is a Certified DISC Instructor. While serving on the REALTOR Board of Directors, he was elected to various executive positions, one of which was Robertson County Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service (RCARMLS) president in 2013. Black was named RCAR REALTOR of The Year in 2014, and in November 2021, he was installed as 2022 president of the River Counties Association of REALTORS.

Black serves on the City of Cleveland Board of Zoning Appeals, City of Cleveland Planning Commission, Rotary Club of Cleveland, and The Caring Place Board of Directors. He has also served on the Lee University Alumni Advisory Board, Lee University Construction Surveillance Committee, and was named the Alpha Gamma Chi Alumnus of the Year in 2014. He was appointed to the International Church of God Board of Trustees and was named chairman at the General Assembly in 2018.

Black was given the award at a special dinner during the university’s Homecoming celebrations and later recognized at the Chancellor’s Choice Concert.