Featured Stories
Sunbelt Modular Partners With Titan Modular Systems, Apollo Modular Systems, Spartan Cargo Trailers & Atlas Lumber and Building Supply
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Virginia, Sept. 15 -- The Modular Building Institute issued the following news release:
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Sunbelt Modular Partners with Titan Modular Systems, Apollo Modular Systems, Spartan Cargo Trailers & Atlas Lumber and Building Supply
September 14, 2026
Sunbelt Modular, Inc. a leading producer of high-quality modular building solutions, has announced its merger with Titan Modular Systems, Apollo Modular Systems, Spartan Cargo Trailers, and Atlas Lumber and Building Supply (collectively "Titan").
Titan is a highly respected manufacturer focused on delivering quality structures across
... Show Full Article
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Virginia, Sept. 15 -- The Modular Building Institute issued the following news release:
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Sunbelt Modular Partners with Titan Modular Systems, Apollo Modular Systems, Spartan Cargo Trailers & Atlas Lumber and Building Supply
September 14, 2026
Sunbelt Modular, Inc. a leading producer of high-quality modular building solutions, has announced its merger with Titan Modular Systems, Apollo Modular Systems, Spartan Cargo Trailers, and Atlas Lumber and Building Supply (collectively "Titan").
Titan is a highly respected manufacturer focused on delivering quality structures acrossthe southeast and central United States. Titan operates out of four manufacturing facilities in Georgia and has a legacy of top-tier craftsmanship and customer service.
"We are thrilled to welcome the entire Titan organization into the Sunbelt Modular family. Joining forces with Titan strengthens our national footprint, expands our capabilities, elevates our quality, and enables us to leverage the combined scale of the platform to deliver even more value to our customers" said Ron Procunier, Chief Executive Officer of Sunbelt Modular.
Justin Morris added, "Our ability to meet the growing needs of our customers and the industry will only accelerate through this outstanding partnership with Sunbelt, an organization for which we have had deep mutual respect since our founding. The future is very bright for off-site construction, and I can't wait to see what this partnership brings to our customers, our people, and the industry as a whole."
"We've always believed that good people, hard work, and taking care of your customers are what build a great company. We see those same values in Sunbelt, and that's what makes this partnership feel like the right fit. We're proud of what our team has built, grateful for the customers who have trusted us along the way, and excited about where we're headed together." said Drew Adams.
"This is an incredibly proud and exciting moment for all of us at Titan. What we have built together over the past 14 years is so much more than a business--it represents the hard work, dedication, relationships, and belief of an extraordinary group of people. Partnering with Sunbelt gives us the opportunity to honor everything that brought us here while opening the door to an even brighter future. I'm incredibly grateful for the journey that has led us to this moment, and I couldn't be more excited about what we are going to build together." said Kristin Wiggins Adams.
Drew Adams, Kristin Wiggins Adams, and Justin Morris will serve critical roles in the combined business going forward as Division President, Vice President of Mergers and Acquisitions, and Chief Sales Officer of Sunbelt Modular, respectively.
Sunbelt Modular is a portfolio company of Littlejohn & Co., LLC. With this addition, Sunbelt Modular now operates 18 manufacturing facilities nationwide.
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Original text here: https://www.modular.org/2026/09/14/sunbelt-modular-partners-with-titan-modular-systems-apollo-modular-systems/
[Category: Construction]
National League for Nursing: Nursing Education Perspectives Dedicates Special Themed Edition to Creating Healthful Work Environments
WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The National League for Nursing issued the following news release:
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Nursing Education Perspectives Dedicates Special Themed Edition to Creating Healthful Work Environments
Plus 8th Annual "Best of NEP" Awards Announced for Upcoming NLN Education Summit in Washington, DC
September 14, 2026
Washington, DC -- Nursing Education Perspectives, the National League for Nursing's well-respected, peer-reviewed scholarly journal, has devoted its annual special themed edition for September-October to an urgent priority: Creating Healthful Work Environments in Nursing Education.
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The National League for Nursing issued the following news release:
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Nursing Education Perspectives Dedicates Special Themed Edition to Creating Healthful Work Environments
Plus 8th Annual "Best of NEP" Awards Announced for Upcoming NLN Education Summit in Washington, DC
September 14, 2026
Washington, DC -- Nursing Education Perspectives, the National League for Nursing's well-respected, peer-reviewed scholarly journal, has devoted its annual special themed edition for September-October to an urgent priority: Creating Healthful Work Environments in Nursing Education.The issue was curated by guest editors Dr. Mark Hand and Dr. Steven Palazzo, veteran nurse educators who sit on the NEP Editorial Board. Dr. Hand also serves as treasurer on the NLN Board of Governors. The theme complements this year's 2026 NLN Education Summit in Washington, DC, which will explore the theme of Beyond the Storm: Reshaping Resilience & Recovery.
In her introductory Message From the NLN Chair, Building Resilience Through Healthy Learning Environments, NLN Chair Yolanda VanRiel, PhD, RN, MEDSURG-BC, OCN, CNE, ANEF, FAAN, chair of the Department of Nursing at North Carolina Central University and patient placement coordinator at First Health of the Carolinas-Moore Regional Hospital, links the two themes:
The storms facing our profession have been many, including workforce shortages, faculty fatigue, persistent disparities in health and educational opportunity, student stress, rapid technological change, and communities still recovering from public health, social, economic, and environmental disruption...A healthy work environment is not separate from resilience and recovery; it is foundational to both. If we are to move beyond the storm, we must create academic settings where faculty, staff, students, and leaders can thrive, contribute fully, and sustain the mission of nursing education with purpose and dignity.
Drs. Hand and Palazzo lay out the scope of what's at stake in their co-authored guest editorial, Creating Healthy Work Environments in Nursing Education: An Educational Imperative, writing:
While considerable attention has been given to healthy work environments in clinical practice settings, equal attention must be directed toward the academic environments where future nurses are prepared. Creating healthy work environments in nursing education is no longer optional. These environments are essential to supporting well-being, strengthening student learning environments, and sustaining the future nursing workforce. Healthy academic workplaces require intentional leadership, shared accountability, meaningful support systems, and a commitment to spaces where one feels valued, respected, and able to thrive.
The special issue reports on studies and initiatives that address challenges that threaten to derail effective teaching and learning in academic and clinical spaces, spotlight behaviors and attitudes that pose risks to a healthy institutional culture and offer practical approaches that can spark dialogue and lead to demonstrable positive change.
Featured content in the publication includes:
* Exploring the Professional Quality of Life and Career Intentions of Nursing Faculty: A Cross-Sectional Study by investigators Xiaoshan Z. Gordy, Britney Roulette, Xiaoqian Zhu, Margaret Jeanne Calcote, Angela Duck, Tawanda McNair, and Christy Savell
* Supporting Clinical Faculty Through Standardized Orientation, Mentorship, and Evidence-Based Solutions: A Contemporary Challenge in Nursing Education by investigator Kendra Duran
* Entrenched Toxic Culture in Academic Nursing: Development and Psychometric Analysis by investigators Becky Good, Kristen F. Kirby, Karen J. Foli, Tony Chase, and Cynthia M. Clark
In their report for the Headlines from the NLN column, Chief Program Officer Gordon Gillespie, PhD, DNP, RN, FAAN, and Chief Operating Officer Michael Kristek, MA, describe the National League for Nursing's innovative hybrid workweek model and other incentives to promote a healthy work-life balance at League headquarters. The two also outline recently published and forthcoming Vision Statements and Toolkits available as professional development resources to assist nursing programs in crafting and implementing strategic plans that foster a culture of support, mentoring, inclusivity, and wellness best suited to the structures and demands of differing academic and clinical environments.
"We are proud to present this special edition of the National League for Nursing's well-respected peer-reviewed scholarly journal, which supports the advancement of excellence in nursing education to benefit all patients who rely on nurses for healthcare," said NLN Chair Dr. Yolanda VanRiel, chair of the Department of Nursing, North Carolina Central University and patient placement coordinator at First Health of the Carolinas-Moore Regional Hospital.
"This issue's theme is so timely as nursing education explores resilience and recovery in nursing and nursing education. Healthy academic workplaces are fundamental not only to the faculty, staff and administration, but also to the well-being of practice-ready nurses to successfully join and work in healthcare," said NLN President and CEO Beverly Malone, PhD, RN, FAAN.
The September-October 2026 issue is posted on the journal's website at NEPonline.net, open access, in time for presentation and dialogue to be held during the 2026 NLN Education Summit, September 23-25 in Washington, DC.
Best NEP Articles Recognized at NLN Education Summit
The Best Article Awards for 2025 will again be a highlight of the NLN Education Summit. Those interested in learning more about the process of scholarly writing may connect with Nursing Education Perspectives editors at the Summit, who will be happy to answer questions about the steps involved, from conception through writing, peer review, and publication. There will also be a special session at the Summit -- Shape the Future of Nursing Education: Publish in Nursing Education Perspectives.
Feature Articles
* First Place: Deliberate Practice of Medication Administration Among Nursing Students: A Multisite Study, Ginger Schroers, Kathryn Vanderzwan, Susan Kilroy, Laura Klenke-Borgmann, Jill Pfieffer, Dina Tell, and Jenny O'Rourke, Vol. 46, No. 5
* Honorable Mentions: Teaching for Learning in Mind: An Evidence-Based Model, Susan Gross Forneris and Barbara J. Patterson, Vol. 46, No. 3; and Implementation of the RQI System: Baseline Skills and Self-Report Competence and Confidence Data From 12 NLN Inaugural Change Agent Nursing Programs, Suzan Kardong-Edgren, Donna Nikitas, Elizabeth Gavin, Heiddy DiGregorio, Dama O'Keefe, Angela G. Opsahl, and Patricia A. Sharpnack, Vol. 46, No. 1
Research Briefs
* First Place: Preliminary Validation of a Clinical Reasoning Theory-Based Assessment Rubric: An e-Delphi Study, Marie-France Deschenes, Eric Dionne, and Laura Robert-Boluda, Vol. 46, No. 3
* Honorable Mentions: Music in Academia for Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Randomized Controlled Study, Jorgie Ann Contreras, Ann Malecha, Wyona Freysteinson, and Sandra Cesario, Vol. 46, No. 3; and Implementing Cognitive Rehearsal Training With Nursing Students to Counter Incivility in the Clinical Setting as Students and New Nurses: A Sequential Mixed-Methods Study, LisaMarie Wands, Carrie McDermott, Noreen Bernard, Rachel Wolf, and Laura P. Kimble, Vol. 46, No. 4
Innovation Center
* First Place: The Interdisciplinary Doula Project: Innovations in Nursing Clinical Education, Julie Vignato, Teresa Horak, Amber Goodrich, Emily Shier, Lastasica Coleman, and Anita Nicholson, Vol. 46, No. 3
* Honorable Mentions: Incorporating Omics and Precision Health in a Nursing PhD Program: The Perspectives of Student Nurse Scientists, Christine Noelle Flaherty, Jesse Rattan, Lindsay Melson, and Pamela V. O'Neal, Vol. 46, No. 1; and Implementation of an Innovative Learning Experience to Address Vaccine Hesitancy, Haley Townsend, Sara Kaylor, and Paige Johnson, Vol. 46, No. 3
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About the National League for Nursing
Dedicated to excellence in nursing, the National League for Nursing is the premier organization for nurse faculty and leaders in nursing education. The NLN offers professional development, networking opportunities, testing services, nursing research grants, and public policy initiatives to its nearly 45,000 individual and 1,000 institutional members, comprising nursing education programs across the spectrum of higher education and health care organizations. Learn more at NLN.org.
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Original text here: https://www.nln.org/detail-pages/news/2026/09/14/nursing-education-perspectives-dedicates-special-themed-edition-to-creating-healthful-work-environments
[Category: Nursing]
NRF Foundation Names The List of People Shaping Retail's Future 2027
WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The National Retail Federation posted the following news release on Sept. 14, 2026:
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NRF Foundation Names The List of People Shaping Retail's Future 2027
WASHINGTON - The NRF Foundation today announced the honorees of The List of People Shaping Retail's Future 2027, an accomplished group of retail leaders who will be celebrated at the annual NRF Foundation Honors in New York City on Jan. 10.
The List of People Shaping Retail's Future 2027 honorees are:
* Mitchell & Ness President Emilie Arel
* Ulta Beauty Chief Retail Officer Amiee Bayer-Thomas
* Nuuly Executive
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The National Retail Federation posted the following news release on Sept. 14, 2026:
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NRF Foundation Names The List of People Shaping Retail's Future 2027
WASHINGTON - The NRF Foundation today announced the honorees of The List of People Shaping Retail's Future 2027, an accomplished group of retail leaders who will be celebrated at the annual NRF Foundation Honors in New York City on Jan. 10.
The List of People Shaping Retail's Future 2027 honorees are:
* Mitchell & Ness President Emilie Arel
* Ulta Beauty Chief Retail Officer Amiee Bayer-Thomas
* Nuuly ExecutiveDirector of Marketing and Customer Success Kim Gallagher
* Fast Retailing President of Global Creative John C Jay
* Old Navy Senior Vice President and Head of Stores and Operations Steve Peters
* Tapestry Chief Growth Officer and Tapestry International President Sandeep Seth
* Wayfair Chief Technology Officer Fiona Tan
"The 2027 honorees on The List of People Shaping Retail's Future exemplify the talent and vision moving retail forward," said Steve Preston, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries and chairman of the NRF Foundation Board of Directors. "Their leadership pairs bold innovation with ingenuity, shaping what the future of retail will look like.
Alumni of The List include leaders across iconic brands, emerging startups and more. The award recognizes the wide range of companies, roles and products that are vital to retail and consumers.
"Retail offers countless opportunities to build a meaningful and rewarding career, and the honorees this year exemplify that potential," NRF Senior Vice President and NRF Foundation Executive Director Adam Lukoskie said. "Their leadership, innovation and dedication are shaping and evolving the industry while paving the way for the next generation of trailblazers."
The NRF Foundation provides more than $1 million in retail scholarships and grants every year, engaging more than 100,000 people and more than 2,000 educational and workforce partners with our retail industry training. More than 350 retailers and industry partners support the work of the NRF Foundation to ensure that retailers have the quality talent they need for their stores, supply chain facilities and corporate offices.
More information is available at nrffoundation.org/honors.
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About NRF
The National Retail Federation passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail succeed. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation's largest private-sector employer, contributing $5.3 trillion to annual GDP and supporting more than one in four U.S. jobs -- 55 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies. nrf.com
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About NRF Foundation
The NRF Foundation provides the skills and resources needed for a life-changing career. As NRF's nonprofit 501(c)(3), we connect people to an industry that's a great place to start and a great place to grow. Together, we help people build better lives and stronger communities. nrffoundation.org
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Original text here: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/nrf-foundation-names-the-list-of-people-shaping-retail-s-future-2027
[Category: Business]
Minnesota Credit Union Network: Royal Credit Union Expands Treasury Management Expertise to Help Businesses Reduce Risk and Improve Efficiency
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Sept. 15 -- Royal Credit Union, a member company of the Minnesota Credit Union Network, issued the following news:
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Royal Credit Union Expands Treasury Management Expertise to Help Businesses Reduce Risk and Improve Efficiency
9/14/2026
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. - Royal Credit Union (Royal) is expanding its Treasury Management expertise to help business Members strengthen fraud prevention, simplify financial processes and more effectively manage cash flow. As part of that investment, Royal has welcomed Annette Wanchena as Vice President - Treasury Manager. In this newly created
... Show Full Article
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Sept. 15 -- Royal Credit Union, a member company of the Minnesota Credit Union Network, issued the following news:
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Royal Credit Union Expands Treasury Management Expertise to Help Businesses Reduce Risk and Improve Efficiency
9/14/2026
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. - Royal Credit Union (Royal) is expanding its Treasury Management expertise to help business Members strengthen fraud prevention, simplify financial processes and more effectively manage cash flow. As part of that investment, Royal has welcomed Annette Wanchena as Vice President - Treasury Manager. In this newly createdleadership role, Wanchena will provide strategic direction and day-to-day management for Royal's Treasury Management function while supporting business Members throughout Royal's Wisconsin and Minnesota footprint.
Treasury Management helps organizations manage the movement, protection and use of their money. Royal's services are designed to help businesses increase efficiency, reduce expenses, improve cash flow and manage financial risk.
From small businesses and nonprofits to larger commercial organizations, Royal partners with businesses of all sizes to provide solutions that improve efficiency, strengthen security, and support long-term success.
"Business leaders are seeking efficient, secure banking solutions that strengthen account protection, automate routine financial tasks, and free up time to focus on growing their business," said Michael Noone, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Banking Officer at Royal Credit Union. "By expanding our Treasury Management leadership and expertise, Royal can work more closely with Members to understand their processes, identify risks and recommend solutions that fit the way their organizations operate."
Fraud prevention is a central focus of Royal's Treasury Management approach. Positive Pay can help businesses identify unexpected check or ACH transactions and decide whether those items should be paid or returned. Royal also helps businesses evaluate account controls, payment methods and approval practices based on their unique needs.
"Helping businesses protect their money is one of my greatest passions," said Wanchena. "When an organization has experienced fraud, or is concerned about what could happen, we can help its leaders understand the tools available and build stronger safeguards. The goal is to provide education and practical solutions that make it easier for Members to run their businesses with confidence."
Royal's Treasury Management team also works with organizations to reduce time spent on routine banking tasks. For example, a business that regularly transports checks to a Royal office may benefit from desktop deposit capture, which allows checks to be processed from the business's location. Organizations can also use ACH services for payroll, vendor payments and recurring collections, while online wires and sweep services can help streamline other financial processes.
"Treasury Management is ultimately about making life easier for business owners and financial leaders," Wanchena said. "Whether we are working with a small business, a nonprofit, a growing company or a larger commercial organization, our goal is the same: help Members save time, operate more efficiently and protect their money. Many small business owners may not realize these solutions are available to them, and I am passionate about helping them find tools that fit their needs and support their success."
Wanchena brings more than 30 years of financial services experience, having worked with consumers, businesses, and nonprofit organizations in roles spanning treasury management, banking, sales leadership, and investment services. She holds a bachelor's degree in marketing management and innovation from Concordia University and is a Certified Treasury Professional. Her experience includes working with organizations across many industries, with a particular interest in helping nonprofits use their resources efficiently and responsibly.
Businesses can learn more about Royal Credit Union Treasury Management services or contact Royal to discuss their organization's cash flow, payment efficiency and fraud prevention needs.
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About Royal Credit Union
Royal Credit Union is a federally insured credit union proudly serving over 340,000 Members in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Royal is driven by a core ideology built on a strong purpose and values. Royal was recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best-In-State Credit Unions 2026 in Wisconsin and Minnesota. You can open an account or apply for a low-rate loan at Royal Credit Union if you live or work in 26 counties in western Wisconsin or 16 counties in Minnesota. Counties served in Wisconsin include Adams, Ashland, Bayfield, Barron, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Lincoln, Marathon, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Portage, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor, Trempealeau, Washburn, and Wood.?Counties served in Minnesota include Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Goodhue, Hennepin, Isanti, Olmsted, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Wabasha, Washington, Winona and Wright. A complete list of Member eligibility requirements is available on the Royal Credit Union website. To learn more about Royal, visit rcu.org or call 800-341-9911.
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Original text here: https://web.mncun.org/atlas/articles/13011
[Category: Financial Services]
American Farm Bureau Federation: Finalists Advance in Ag Innovation Challenge for Chance at $100,000
NASHVILLE, Tennessee, Sept. 15 -- The American Farm Bureau Federation issued the following news release:
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Finalists Advance in Ag Innovation Challenge for Chance at $100,000
Sep 14, 2026
Four start-up companies offering agricultural innovations have advanced to compete for a top prize of $100,000 in the 2027 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, continues to elevate the importance of entrepreneurship in agriculture through the contest.
"The future of agriculture is being shaped by innovators like these four finalists,"
... Show Full Article
NASHVILLE, Tennessee, Sept. 15 -- The American Farm Bureau Federation issued the following news release:
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Finalists Advance in Ag Innovation Challenge for Chance at $100,000
Sep 14, 2026
Four start-up companies offering agricultural innovations have advanced to compete for a top prize of $100,000 in the 2027 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, continues to elevate the importance of entrepreneurship in agriculture through the contest.
"The future of agriculture is being shaped by innovators like these four finalists,"said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. "They are transforming bold ideas into practical tools and technologies that will help farmers and ranchers thrive while continuing to provide the food, fuel and fiber we all rely on."
This is the 13th year of the Ag Innovation Challenge, which was the first national business competition focused exclusively on rural entrepreneurs launching agriculture- and food-related businesses. Farm Bureau is offering $145,000 in start-up funds throughout the course of the competition.
Ten semi-finalist teams participated in a virtual pitch round with three judges representing various sectors of the agricultural supply chain. The four finalist teams advancing to the final round each received an initial prize of $10,000 and are listed below.
* Seismi, Nebraska
* Nave Analytics, Nebraska
* Swinergy, Minnesota
* Good Agriculture, Georgia
The finalist teams will compete at the AFBF Convention on Sunday, Jan. 10, in front of a live audience of Farm Bureau members, investors and industry representatives, competing for top titles and prizes:
* Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge Winner, total of $100,000
* Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge Runner-up, total of $25,000
Farm Bureau recognizes and supports these rural businesses with generous funding provided by sponsors Farm Credit, Bayer Crop Science, John Deere, Farm Bureau Bank, Farm Bureau Financial Services, Google, T-Mobile and ClearPath.
To learn more about the Challenge visit fb.org/challenge.
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Original text here: https://www.fb.org/news-release/finalists-advance-in-ag-innovation-challenge-for-chance-at-100-000
[Category: Agriculture]
ALTA Study Finds Seller Impersonation Fraud Attempts More Than Double
WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Land Title Association issued the following news release on Sept. 14, 2026:
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ALTA Study Finds Seller Impersonation Fraud Attempts More Than Double
September 14, 2026
Washington, D.C., -- The American Land Title Association (ALTA), the national trade association of the land title insurance industry, today released new research showing seller impersonation fraud has become more widespread and frequent, while criminals are broadening their targets and using increasingly sophisticated tactics to carry out these schemes.
ALTA's 2026 Seller Impersonation
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 -- The American Land Title Association issued the following news release on Sept. 14, 2026:
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ALTA Study Finds Seller Impersonation Fraud Attempts More Than Double
September 14, 2026
Washington, D.C., -- The American Land Title Association (ALTA), the national trade association of the land title insurance industry, today released new research showing seller impersonation fraud has become more widespread and frequent, while criminals are broadening their targets and using increasingly sophisticated tactics to carry out these schemes.
ALTA's 2026 Seller ImpersonationFraud study found that 59% of firms reported at least one seller impersonation fraud attempt in the prior calendar year, more than double the 28% reported in ALTA's 2024 survey. The share reporting at least one attempt in the month prior to the survey also rose sharply, from 19% to 45%, while the share reporting three or more attempts increased from 4% to 23%.
Seller impersonation fraud occurs when a criminal impersonates a property owner to illegally sell commercial or residential property. The study surveyed 245 title insurance professionals across 40 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
"The study highlights the critical role title professionals play in protecting property rights and preserving confidence in real estate transactions," said ALTA Chief Strategy, Communications & Innovation Officer Elizabeth Blosser. "In an environment where criminals are becoming more sophisticated, vigilance, expertise and layered defenses remain among the industry's most effective tools. Every day, title companies combine technology, industry expertise and rigorous verification processes to identify suspicious activity and stop fraud before consumers are harmed."
The findings confirm what title professionals have known for years: seller impersonation fraud is becoming more common, more sophisticated and more difficult to detect. "Criminals are investing time and resources to exploit weaknesses in real estate transactions, which means our industry must remain equally committed to strengthening safeguards that protect property owners and consumers," said Blosser.
The research shows criminals are expanding both their targets and tactics. Vacant land remains the top target, but vacation homes, rental properties, agricultural land and primary residences all increased as targets compared with the 2024 survey.
Technology is also changing the fraud playbook. 87% of respondents rated spoofed contact information as at least somewhat common, while 58% said the same of deepfake image or voice technology.
When schemes succeed, the financial consequences can be substantial. One in four firms reporting an attempt also reported a paid claim related to seller impersonation fraud. Among firms reporting a claim and disclosing average costs, half reported costs above $100,000.
Title professionals also are strengthening their defenses. 94% of firms reported using multiple tools they consider helpful for detecting seller impersonation fraud, averaging 5.3 fraud-detection tools per firm. These include identity verification, direct seller contact, multifactor authentication and approved notaries.
The findings underscore the increasingly important role title professionals play as a frontline defense for consumers and property owners. As criminals adapt, title companies are layering identity verification, authentication and professional expertise to identify suspicious activity and stop fraudulent transactions before consumers are harmed.
The full ALTA Critical Issues Study: Seller Impersonation Fraud is available here.
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About ALTA
The American Land Title Association, founded in 1907, represents an industry comprised of more than 17,000 title insurance companies operating across the nation, with over 90% being small businesses.
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Original text here: https://www.alta.org/news-and-publications/press-release/ALTA-Study-Finds-Seller-Impersonation-Fraud-Attempts-More-Than-Double
[Category: Real Estate]
ALPA Approves $2 Million Allocation to Support Sun Country Pilots Through Merger Negotiations Process
MCLEAN, Virginia, Sept. 15 -- The Air Line Pilots Association International issued the following news release:
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ALPA Approves $2 Million Allocation to Support Sun Country Pilots Through Merger Negotiations Process
September 14, 2026
McLEAN, Va. -- Sun Country Airlines pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l (ALPA), received a $2 million allocation to provide additional resources for ongoing contract negotiations and the joint collective bargaining agreement negotiations that will follow as part of the merger with Allegiant Air. Unanimously approved by ALPA's Executive
... Show Full Article
MCLEAN, Virginia, Sept. 15 -- The Air Line Pilots Association International issued the following news release:
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ALPA Approves $2 Million Allocation to Support Sun Country Pilots Through Merger Negotiations Process
September 14, 2026
McLEAN, Va. -- Sun Country Airlines pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l (ALPA), received a $2 million allocation to provide additional resources for ongoing contract negotiations and the joint collective bargaining agreement negotiations that will follow as part of the merger with Allegiant Air. Unanimously approved by ALPA's ExecutiveBoard, the allocation brings the full strength and resources of the world's largest airline pilot union to the Sun Country pilot group.
"Being part of ALPA means our pilot group does not have to navigate a merger of this magnitude alone," said Capt. Sam Larson, chair of the Sun Country Airlines Master Executive Council. "Sun Country pilots built this airline into the hometown carrier that Minnesota relies on, and this fund allocation makes sure we have the resources to keep protecting that legacy for our pilots and the communities we serve."
In January, Sun Country Airlines announced a merger with Allegiant Airlines. As the two airlines continue the long process of merging operations, Sun Country pilots remain engaged in their own contract negotiations before turning to the process of negotiating a joint collective bargaining agreement with Allegiant Air pilots. Following that process, both pilot groups will turn to the seniority list integration process and the union determination process, after which the two pilot groups will become one.
"We are proud partners in this merger, and we want management to work with us and recognize our contributions," Larson said. "We remain optimistic that with new leadership in place, we can collaboratively solve problems going forward. But the bottom line is that our pilots don't want to see cuts to Minnesota service any more than travelers do. Fewer flights mean fewer flying opportunities for our pilots, and it pulls us further from the communities we were built to serve."
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Founded in 1931, ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and represents more than 80,000 pilots at 42 U.S. and Canadian airlines, including 680 Sun Country pilots. Visit ALPA.org or follow us on X @ALPAPilots.
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Original text here: https://www.alpa.org/press-room/2026/09/alpa-approves-2-million-allocation-to-support-sun-country-pilots-through-merger-negotiations-process
[Category: Transportation]
