Feature Spotlight #35 - April Gentry

Women of Title Spotlight: April Gentry.

Where Authenticity, Resilience, and Relationships Lead the Way. Her.the title collective – Friday Feature

In a world where business often feels transactional, April Gentry reminds us that the true magic happens when we build with heart. A seasoned professional whose career spans real estate, design, and title, April has spent over 20 years weaving creativity, strategy, and human connection into everything she touches. Today, as the Director of Strategic Partnerships based in vibrant Austin, Texas, she brings a fresh, authentic energy to the title industry—one built on trust, innovation, and deep-rooted passion.

A Journey Written by Serendipity and Strength.

April’s path into title insurance wasn’t a straight line—it was a winding, serendipitous journey shaped by resilience and unexpected opportunities. After leading business development for a New York-based interior design and renovation company, April found herself at a crossroads when poor leadership forced the company’s collapse. It could have been an ending, but instead, it sparked a remarkable new beginning.

Through a chance connection—a colleague’s husband who had once attended summer camp with a woman at Qualia—April was introduced to her future mentor and boss. That open house meeting led her into the world of title insurance, and she’s never looked back. "The rest," she says with a smile, "is history."

Today, April’s unique background in sales, design, and human-centric strategy gives her an edge in a fast-evolving title industry that desperately needs innovation and connection.

 Leading with Purpose, Building with Heart.

At her core, April is a connector. As Director of Strategic Partnerships, she specializes in building meaningful relationships—ones grounded not just in opportunity, but in trust, empathy, and mutual growth. "The strongest partnerships," she believes, "are built when you lead with understanding, not just ambition."

But leading in a historically slow-to-innovate industry hasn’t come without challenges. Standing at the intersection of title and technology, April is no stranger to navigating spaces where female leadership remains rare. She sees this as an opportunity to advocate for change, carving a path not only for herself but for the women who will follow.

Learning to Own Her Voice.

One of the pivotal moments in April’s career came through her work with Dr. Cindy McGovern, who challenged her to speak more boldly about her achievements. Like many women, April once believed that hard work would speak for itself. "We assume people will naturally recognize the value we bring," she reflects, "but that’s rarely the case."

The book How Women Rise further opened her eyes to the systemic barrier’s women face—and the personal growth needed to rise above them. It wasn’t just about confidence; it was about permission. Permission to be proud. Permission to take up space.

Her advice for younger women entering title? “Be curious. Find your confidence. Own your power. You belong here.”

And when in doubt, she recalls advice from her acting mentor: "Feel your feet on the floor." A simple reminder to stay grounded, present, and unwavering—no matter how unfamiliar the room may feel.

Rooted in Gratitude, Fueled by Growth.

April’s resilience isn’t fueled by sheer grit alone—it’s anchored in gratitude, a lesson she credits to her father. "He’s constantly reminding me,

‘How lucky are we?’ she shares. It’s a mindset that blends hustle with humility, drive with deep appreciation for the opportunities each day brings.

 Her confidence, she admits, is not a fixed destination but a moving, evolving thing. "Some days it’s strong, some days fleeting. But that’s the point—growth is found in the learning, in the stretching, and yes, even in the struggle."

A Life Beyond the Title Desk.

There’s more to April than her impressive career. In a delightful twist, she spent a decade in New York City as an actor, even performing improv at the legendary Upright Citizens Brigade. "Improv taught me invaluable lessons about deep listening, collaboration, and embracing spontaneity," she says. It’s no surprise that those same skills now fuel her success in business.

Outside of work, April’s musical taste reveals her timeless soul: from rocking out to Led Zeppelin to being moved to tears by Florence and The Machine’s ethereal power, music remains a constant wellspring of inspiration.

And while she thrives in leadership, she remains a devoted member of her “village”—a tight-knit family and circle of supportive friends she likens to the tribal communities of old. "We’re not meant to navigate life alone," she reminds us.

Living by Authenticity, Leaving a Legacy of Courage.

If there’s one philosophy that guides April’s life and work, it’s authenticity. "You are the only you that will ever be," she says. And it’s that truth—leading with honesty, vulnerability, and passion—that she hopes defines her legacy.

"I want to be remembered as someone who created, who stayed open to the extraordinary journey of life, and who wasn’t afraid to see the world through a different lens."

A Message to the Women of Her.collective.

April’s final words for the women of Her.collective are filled with gratitude and encouragement: "Thank you for giving space to women. Thank you for sharing our stories."

Stories like hers remind us that title insurance isn’t just about transactions—it’s about transformation. About finding your voice, owning your space, and building something beautiful with authenticity, courage, and heart.

Thank you, April Gentry, for being a powerful voice, a fearless creator, and an inspiring Woman of Title. We are honored to share your story.

**Connect with April here: april@closinglock.com I LinkedIn 

Feature Spotlight #34 - Vicki Campbell

Women of Title Spotlight: Vicki Campbell

Resilience, Research & Real Impact on the Gulf Coast and Beyond Her. the title collective.

In an industry built on precision, integrity, and persistence, few embody the spirit of title insurance quite like Vicki Campbell. With over 40 years in real estate and title, Vicki’s journey is one of fearless reinvention, entrepreneurial vision, and a steadfast commitment to uplifting others. From her roots in mineral rights research to building companies from the ground up, she has left her mark not only on the Gulf Coast but across the entire title landscape.

A Foundation Built on Grit and Curiosity.

Vicki’s career began in 1978 when, while still in college, her stepfather—a petroleum geologist—introduced her to the world of title through mineral rights research. That early exposure sparked more than just interest; it launched a career. She soon landed at Pensacola Title Company, where a supportive mentor offered to pay her tuition on one condition: she had to make straight A’s. “That incentive pushed me,” she recalls, “and except for one class, I did just that.”

Her early years were defined by hustle and heart. In the 1980s, she stepped away from traditional title work to launch Southeastern Petroleum Abstracts, servicing the oil and gas sector. When that industry slowed, she returned to her title roots—working with underwriters like First American, Stewart Title, and Alliant National. Along the way, she built and sold Esquire Title before founding Perdido Title Solutions, a company she runs today with her husband, Mike. Their firm now operates five divisions, specializing in everything from tax deed and probate title to MLS support and commercial research.

Home Base: From the Beach to Downtown.

Perdido Key, Florida, holds a special place in Vicki’s heart—it’s where her business and her family life began. But after losing her office to a hurricane in 2017, she relocated her operations to Downtown Pensacola. “I do miss being steps from the beach,” she admits, “but our team thrives in the heart of the city.” That same sense of resilience radiates through every story she tells—always grounded in gratitude, forward-thinking, and faith.

Leading by Example, Wearing All the Hats.

As a business owner, Vicki does it all. From handling complex commercial title research to teaching real estate classes, creating marketing content, and even the occasional office maintenance, no task is too small—or too big. “Owning a business means doing whatever it takes,” she says. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

She credits much of her early growth to Ella Poythress, a mentor who taught her more than just title research. “She modeled professionalism, integrity, and strength,” Vicki shares. That mentorship ignited a deep belief in paying it forward—something she continues to do every day through her team, her clients, and the women of the title industry.

Challenges, Confidence & Championship-Level Tenacity.

Early in her career, the challenge wasn’t just in mastering title—it was being taken seriously as a woman in a male-dominated field. She recalls pitching a class on reading surveys to a skeptical male supervisor. “He said yes—if I still played golf,” she laughs. “So, I did both.”

Today, Vicki still teaches that survey class… and still carries a 14 handicap.

Her advice to young women just entering the industry? “Find an Old Gorilla.” Inspired by a book by Bert Thornton, the idea is simple—learn from those who’ve been through it all. “Emulation has always been my best teacher,” Vicki says. “Find someone doing it right and learn everything you can from them.”

Fueled by Faith, Grounded by Family.

At the core of Vicki’s success is her unwavering faith.

“If you wake up dreading Monday, burnout is inevitable. But if you wake up and thank God for the ability to serve, lead, and work—you create energy, not exhaustion.”

This mindset fuels everything she does.

Her family is her grounding force. Married to “an absolute prince” named Mike, and proud mom to Cody—who now thrives at Stewart Title—Vicki’s home life is filled with love, laughter, and a brand-new joy: her grandson, Murphy Allen. “My cup doesn’t just runneth over,” she says. “It floods.”

More Than a Title Expert.

When she’s not handling title, Vicki’s likely working on her short game. A passionate golfer and avid poker player, she even made the final table at a World Poker Tour event. And in a surprise twist, she also serves as an elected official on the Board of the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority—giving back to the community she holds dear.

Her taste in music spans genres—Michael Jackson concerts in her youth, Earl Klugh’s smooth jazz, and faith-fueled inspiration from Leanna Crawford. Every aspect of her life reflects a dynamic blend of heart, humor, and hustle.

A Word, A Legacy, A Life of Impact.

If she had to choose one guiding principle? “Give back more than you take." That philosophy has shaped her relationships, her reputation, and her legacy.

“I hope that 20 years from now, someone says, ‘She made a difference in my life.’

That’s it. Not awards or recognition—just knowing I helped someone grow, find clarity, or believe in themselves. That’s the legacy I want to leave.”

To the women of Her. the title collective, Vicki leaves us with this: “We’ve been holding this industry together for decades. And it’s time the next generation sees what’s possible. Stick with it—and you won’t just succeed. You’ll thrive.”

Thank you, Vicki Campbell, for being a beacon of strength, generosity, and wisdom. You are a Woman of Title—and we’re honored to share your story.

**Connect with Vicki here: vicki@perdidotitle.info I LinkedIn I Instagram I Facebook

Feature Spotlight #33 - Luba Papirov

Woman of Title - Leading with Purpose, Perseverance & Power.

This week, Her.collective is honored to spotlight a woman who embodies resilience, leadership, and relentless drive. Meet Luba Papirov, Chief Operating Officer of a Staten Island-based title company, Exclusive Land Services, Inc. She has spent the last 20 years navigating the title insurance world—while also holding a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and working as a per diem pharmacist.

A Dual-Passion Journey.

Luba’s story is a unique blend of ambition, grit, and heart. She started her title career while attending college, helping out at her mother-in-law’s company. When she was accepted into a Doctor of Pharmacy program, she obtained her notary license and juggled closings during graduate school. After nearly a decade as a pharmacist, Luba took over the title company full-time, stepping into leadership and ensuring a smooth generational transition—all while continuing to mentor pharmacy interns and support patients.

Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry.

As a woman in an industry historically dominated by men, Luba faced her share of challenges. “There were times I had to prove my knowledge and authority over and over again,” she recalls. Often underestimated or mistaken for support staff, Luba leaned into her expertise and commanded the space she earned, “I’m not just part of the conversation—I’m leading it.”

Her Advice to Women in Title.

Luba is passionate about mentorship and uplifting women in the title industry. Her advice includes:

• Master your craft — knowledge earns respect.

• Speak up — your voice belongs at the table.

• Build a strong network — the right people will elevate you.

• Stay adaptable — keep learning and growing.

• Support other women — collaboration creates more opportunities.

Her "Why" & Inner Drive.

Luba’s strength is rooted in her upbringing. Immigrating to the U.S. as a child and losing her father young shaped her resolve. Watching her mother struggle to raise two children in a new country taught her the importance of independence and financial security. That experience fueled her drive to create opportunities not just for herself, but for others—especially women—who seek stability and success. “I’ve always believed quitting isn’t an option. My work is about creating opportunity—for myself, my family, and other women like me.”

Her "why" has always been deeply personal. It stems from her life experiences, and her unwavering belief in perseverance. The title industry, like many in real estate and finance, is still male-dominated. Every time I step into a room, negotiate a deal, or run my business successfully, I remind myself that I’m not just doing this for me—I’m doing it for every woman who has been told she isn’t “tough enough” for this business.

At the end of the day, her why is simple:

”I refuse to let my circumstances define me. Instead, I define them. That’s what keeps me moving forward—no matter the obstacle.”

Whether educating clients, mentoring women, or empowering first-time homebuyers, Luba sees her work as a way to create lasting change.

Grace Under Pressure, Strategy in Action.

In a high-pressure industry where strong personalities often collide, Luba Papirov has learned to navigate challenges with emotional intelligence and deliberate strategy. Her approach is grounded in staying composed and prepared, using tools like strategic silence, fact-based communication, and clearly defined professional boundaries. She believes that effectiveness doesn’t come from reacting emotionally but from responding with clarity and confidence. “You don’t need to match someone’s energy to be effective,” she says. “Confidence and clarity speak louder than confrontation.”

A Legacy of Impact and Integrity.

Luba’s vision for her legacy is as intentional as her leadership. She is committed to uplifting other women, leading with unwavering honesty, and building a business that’s built to last. More than just professional success, she aims to foster a culture of collaboration over competition—one that inspires and supports others along the way. “I didn’t come from wealth or connections,” Luba reflects. “I built this through grit and perseverance—and I want other women to know they can too.”

More Than Just Business.

Outside of work, Luba finds joy in family, creativity, and community. She and her husband—who’s also in real estate—are raising two children and navigating entrepreneurship together. Her “village” of supportive mentors, friends, and colleagues plays a huge role in her success.

Surprising fact? She once pursued acting and landed a modeling gig for L'Oréal at the Javits Center. Though her path changed, she still channels that love for expression through mentorship, speaking engagements, and negotiation.

Perseverance & Final Thoughts.

"If there’s one word that defines me, it’s perseverance.” Luba believes success comes not from avoiding failure, but by pushing through it. She shows up every day not just to succeed for herself—but to lead, inspire, and create space for others to thrive.

“To the women of Her.collective—you are powerful beyond measure. This road won’t always be easy, but your strength, brilliance, and resilience will carry you through. Keep learning, keep growing, and most of all—keep shining. Perseverance is your superpower. Own it.”

Thank you, Luba, for being such an exceptional Woman of Title and for sharing your story!

**Connect with Luba here: excland@gmail.com I LinkedIn I Instagram I Facebook