Monica Thibodeau with her children Ryan and Michele Thibodeau.
Nags Head, NC – The Outer Banks Association of REALTORS® (OBAR) awarded Monica Thibodeau, a distinguished REALTOR® and community leader with the prestigious Career Achievement Award at their annual meeting held last month. This award is presented annually to one REALTOR® who has been a member for at least 25 years, who defines REALTOR® leader, and has made outstanding contributions to the real estate profession and the community.
Monica says, “I’m still stunned, but so honored to be recognized in this way. I’m proud of everything I have been able to do in the community over the years and humbled to be honored by my fellow REALTORS® and this amazing organization. I’m thankful for every day here on the Outer Banks.”
Monica Thibodeau started her real estate career in 1988 and joined OBAR in 1997 when she and her partners formed Carolina Designs Realty. Serving on various OBAR committees over the years, including Finance and Budget, Government Affairs, Scholarship, and Professional Standards, as well as serving on the Board of Directors, Monica played a pivotal role in shaping the association’s vision and direction. She was elected President of the Association in 2009 and was named REALTOR® of the Year in 2010.
Monica says, “I truly believe in supporting organizations that prioritize conservation, education, and preservation of the unique history and culture of the Outer Banks as much as possible.” Through her company, Monica has been committed to enhancing the quality of life and the environment of the Outer Banks while embracing innovation. From becoming the first company to provide linens as a standard amenity, utilizing revolutionary electrolyzed home cleaning products eliminating the need to use harsh chemicals, being the first to offer real-time availability and reservations via the Internet and giving guests the option to plan vacations a year in advance, upgrading to Smart Lock Keyless Entry, to introducing an electric vehicle charger program, she is always striving for the best experience for her guests.
Monica has also been a generous donor and a dedicated volunteer for many local causes. She has been an active member of the Outer Banks Hospital Development Committee, where she played a key role in the development of the new Cowell Cancer Center. The partners of Carolina Designs contributed $50,000 and Monica, herself, donated another $50,000 to the center in memory of her late husband Art.
Monica is a founding member of Outer Banks Forever, an organization which helps protect and enhance local National Parks, and she has served on the Dare County Tourism Board, working to promote the area as a premier tourist destination. She has also dedicated countless hours to the Duck Town Council, where she has served since 2002, and currently serves as Mayor Pro Tem.
OBAR President Natalie Painter says, “Monica's extraordinary career of service and her commitment to the betterment of the Outer Banks community make her a deserving recipient of the OBAR Career Achievement Award. She is an exemplary example of how REALTORS® give back to their communities.”
Previous winners include:
2012 - Anderson Midgett
2012 - T Stockton Midgett
2012 - James Perry
2013 - Stephanie Walker
2014 - Rosemarie Doshier
2015 - Artie Ange
2017 - Jackie Ricks-Sample
2018 - Michael Davenport
2019 - David Perrot
2020 - Mercedes Tabano
2021 - Bobby Harrell
2022 - Doug Brindley