As a VLTA Member, we invite you to share what you are doing in your community, new jobs, promotions, retirements, milestones, professional accomplishments, good deeds, events, awards, or even a member advocacy story, or while you’re at it! News can include a relevant link to an article, blog post, press release, video, landing page, or website.
The Closing Shop, LLC Cited for Excellence
Originally posted on Gloucester-Mathews Gazette-Journal with permission to reprint from Charlie Koenig, Editor.
March 25, 2026
The Closing Shop in Gloucester Court House recently received Old Republic National Title’s Shining Star Award for Operational Excellence.
Kevin Pogoda, the first vice president and Virginia state manager and Morty Weaver, assistant vice president and business development officer for Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, recently visited The Closing Shop to present the award in person to owner Bonnie Stainback and her team. A release said this is an honor awarded to the top 15 percent of title agencies in Virginia reflecting the company’s operational excellence and strong professional relationships built between the agency and its underwriting partners.
To qualify for the Shining Star Award, agencies must meet a number of standards, including accurate and efficient reporting, escrow controls, lack of consumer complaints, and sound operational procedures in real estate settlements.
“We take a lot of pride in helping people navigate one of the most important financial decisions of their lives,” said owner Stainback. “Receiving this recognition from Old Republic is truly an honor, and it reflects the dedication our team brings to every closing. We make it our mission and commitment to provide smooth, accurate, and timely closings.”
The Closing Shop opened in 2012 and is located at 7307 Martin Street in Gloucester.
Kevin T. Pogoda Receives 2026 Traver Scholar Award
March 9, 2026
For Kevin T. Pogoda, the path to becoming a foremost authority in Virginia real estate law was paved by a remarkably diverse legal background. On March 9, 2026, that dedication was recognized when the Virginia State Bar (VSB) Real Property Section named him the recipient of the 2026 Traver Scholar Award.
Pogoda, who is the First Vice President and Virginia State Manager for Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, was selected for embodying the highest ideals in real estate law. Kevin’s expertise is built upon years of experience and his unique drive to push himself further into the technical depths of the title industry.
The Traver Award honors VSB members who significantly contribute to the practice and who share their knowledge for the education of others. He has cemented his status as a title industry scholar by editing A Virginia Title Examiners’ Manual, 6th Edition, and his regular contributions to our own VLTA Examiner Magazine. He is, however, most recognizable to VLTA members for virtually teaching the VLTA prelicensing course and countless other CE courses. Pogoda is recognized within the VLTA world for both his mustache and his fun and relatable teaching style – no matter what subject he’s presenting. His ability to make even the driest subject entertaining has made him a beloved and highly sought-after instructor
Pogoda is a past president of the Virginia Land Title Association. From his early days in private practice to his current leadership role, he consistently demonstrates outstanding legal ability and a steadfast willingness to guide the next generation of title insurance professionals.
Don’t forget to give Kevin a pat on the back for his remarkable work. And from everyone here at The Examiner: Congratulations and thank you, Kevin, for all you do!
Ken Dickenson Retirement
Ken Dickenson retired from Stewart Title Guaranty Company in August of 2025. He joined Stewart in October 2003 as Central Virginia District Counsel.
Ken is a true Southern gentleman, as evidenced by his wonderful drawl and his ability to treat everyone with respect and friendship. During his tenure with Stewart we came to rely on him for his thoughtful insights and ability to educate our agents with many seminars to his credit. He will truly be missed. We wish him all the great things retirement has to offer. And if you look closely, you may find another of our now retired legends who showed up for the festivities.
Congratulations on your retirement, Ken!
Meet Beau Steele, Customer Satisfaction Manager
The Title Professionals, Fredericksburg, VA
Prince Beauregard of Passapatanzy, just “Beau” to his friends, joined the company in December 2023 as an assistant bookkeeper where he quickly proved himself reliable—especially when it came to accompanying deposits to the bank. He is especially adept at withdrawals from the bank’s ample treat jar. He has since been promoted to Customer Satisfaction Manager, a role he takes very seriously. Beau makes a point to personally greet most clients upon arrival, often with an enthusiastic “welcome bark.” A truly dedicated team member, he rarely misses a day of work and prefers to stay right in the center of the action—literally—ensuring coworkers stay alert by stepping around him as they move through the office.
Outside of the office, Beau fully embraces his well-earned downtime. He loves treats, tummy rubs, car rides, and especially boat rides. When the opportunity arises, he enjoys letting out his “zoomies” and burning off some energy. A natural adventurer, Beau loves to swim and can often be found enthusiastically chasing geese, seagulls—really, anything with wings.
Mark Steele, President
The Title Professionals, LLC
Fredericksburg, VA
Have a retirement or job-change coming up? Send it to the VLTA – We’d love to celebrate with you! If you have any questions or would like to submit your own member news, please reach out to Emily Stephens at membership@vlta.org.
