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