Final answer:
Using the GRI designation without paying the annual membership dues is a violation, as it misleads others about one's professional status and violates the requirements of maintaining the designation in good standing.
Step-by-step explanation:
If Jan is using the designation GRI (Graduate of the Real Estate Institute) but has not paid her annual membership dues, this is indeed a violation. The GRI designation is a professional recognition that carries certain obligations, including the payment of dues. Maintaining membership in good standing is typically a requirement for the ongoing use of the designation. If dues are unpaid, the individual is not in good standing and should not represent themselves with the GRI credential. Doing so is dishonest as it misleads clients and colleagues about one's professional status.
Professional designations are meant to indicate a certain level of expertise or qualification. Misrepresenting oneself with a designation suggests that the individual holds current credentials that they may not actually possess due to non-payment of dues. This misrepresentation can harm the credibility of the designation and may have consequences with the issuing institution or in the wider professional realm.