As National Marketing Director, Alexis Ames oversees the strategic direction and development of integrated marketing efforts, brand awareness and advertising initiatives for Alliance Residential. Her marketing team supports the company’s national portfolio ranging across approximately 45,000 units in 21 major metropolitan markets. Ms. Ames has a broad range of experience distinguished by consistent achievement in areas of business leadership, consumer marketing, and product management. Currently residing in Scottsdale, Arizona Alexis Ames is a Seattle native and graduate of the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University.
Tammy Chivers Baker, Director of Sales for Grace Hill, Inc., began her career in the multifamily industry over 26 years ago. While working for Lincoln Property Company in Atlanta, Georgia during the early 1980’s, Tammy realized her true love was for the marketing and training side of the business. She chose to pursue her dream by joining a Kentucky based property management company as their Marketing Director; in this role, she supported communities in Kentucky, Southern Indiana, Tennessee, and Florida. In 2002, Tammy again acted on her passions and her love of training led her to join Grace Hill as Director of Sales. At Grace Hill, Tammy is responsible for initiating and supporting the online training programs for over 200 property management companies totaling over a million units nationwide. In her spare time, Tammy is also an accomplished speaker. She has presented for management companies, apartment associations, and industry conferences including Brainstorming and Multi-Housing World Info Expo. Tammy has facilitated at the Brainstorming Sessions more times than she can count and considers this one of her favorite events every year as it allows her to interact with the industry’s go-getters in leasing, marketing, and training. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Tammy proudly boasts her all time greatest achievement is her 14 year old daughter and greatest kid in the world, Taylor Logan.
Toni Blake is an international speaker, author and comedienne. Having invested more than 30 years of her life in multifamily housing, she tours over 50 cities each year inspiring thousands of industry professionals. As a published author, Toni’s expertise has been published in over 36 trade magazines across the country. In November 2008, Toni was awarded the Multifamily PRO Industry Legend Award. She was selected by the National Apartment Association as one of the industry’s “Marketing Gurus” and is recognized for her research and innovative concepts in customer service, sales, and marketing. Toni was honored at the very first Multifamily PRO “People’s Choice Awards” winning awards for Educational Excellence, Imagination and Innovation. Utilizing her multi-lingual talents, Toni was a featured speaker at the 2006 ISTA Conference in Kassel Germany, presenting IN GERMAN to an audience of 260 German multifamily professionals. She currently serves as President of TotallyToni.com, and Founder/President of the Multifamily Speakers Alliance. Toni lives in Northern Colorado with her husband.
“You will always enjoy this industry favorite.” – Toni Blake
Kathy L. Banker, CAS, NALP is an innovative multifamily professional specializing in marketing and sales training for over 25 years. Prior to starting Lease UP! in 2005, her own consulting and training business, she worked for several nationally recognized companies. She created the Lease Up! Pro Learning Series consisting of 13 topics on leasing, marketing and customer service for management, leasing and maintenance professionals which she presents to associations and private companies across the US. She is a faculty member of the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI), is qualified to conduct NAA designation classes and has been recognized for her volunteer work in Education by her local apartment association. “I am passionate about education and try to consistently raise the performance bar to better the quality of service and results for residents, owners and investors.” Her area of expertise is in assessing under-performing communities and creating and implementing a marketing plan and sales team that increases traffic and leases more apartments. She serves the needs of the conventional, affordable and senior housing markets across the country. Lease UP! conducts mystery shops throughout the Midwest. www.LeaseUpNow.net
“In today’s market there are no ‘secrets or tricks’ for increasing occupancy. The keys to success are knowing what to do, doing it well and doing it consistently.” – Kathy Banker
Lisa Benson, CEO and Principal Founder of Ellipse Communications Inc. is known for her driven persona within the multifamily industry, Lisa continues to lead our company and grow her congregation to those who share her same tenacious commitment and passion to be leaders in this industry. Today her CEO Blog and industry scripting in Multifamily Professional Magazine are a central focus for the company. Lisa is regularly invited to speak at industry conferences. It was Lisa’s eight years of multifamily experience and her sincere interest in Internet technology that lead to the co-founding and self-funding of Ellipse in 1999. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science, Business Management degree from LeTourneau University. Over the years, her leadership brought together great talent, insightful technologies and incomparable compassion for collective social contribution. Lisa takes on every opportunity to challenge herself to continue the growth of her congregation by engaging and challenging everyone she meets to abandon their fears of technology. Lisa’s personality is one that is demanding that everyone succeed and there is nothing wrong with wanting to be a winner.
Karen Blue has over 25 years of property management experience and has been a Brainstorming Facilitator for more than 10 year. Karen has worked as a property manager, national trainer, regional property manager, regional sales manager and national account manager. She specializes in sales, training, management and Internet marketing and has worked in the California, Colorado and Texas markets. Karen is currently a Regional Sales Manager for Apartments.com and resides in Austin, TX.
Heather Blume has a contagious energy and passion that goes to the heart of the multifamily industry. Her work on site combined with her work as a vendor give Heather a unique perspective that allows her to create success for those around her. Currently, Heather is the Imagination In Charge of Behind the Leasing Desk Consulting Services, a consulting firm out of the Seattle area that specializes in meeting the specific needs of multifamily clients who may be experiencing challenges in different facets of the property management world. She is an accomplished national speaker and trainer, a participant in the weekly twitter #aptchat, and her syndicated blog posts to Multifamily Insiders have made her one of their top 10 read authors. Her work has been seen in industry publications across the country, including UNITS Magazine. Heather is an acting NAA Advanced Instructor designate and member of the 2010 NAA Faculty, as well as a WMFHA, CAM, and NALP instructor. She received her CAM designation this year. Heather’s blog, Behind the Leasing Desk, shares her unique ideas on everything regarding property management with the world. Her Monday morning show, The Multifamily 5×5, is watched by hundreds of property management professionals across the country. From marketing and advertising; to resident retention and talent retention; and even conflict resolution and social media engagement; Heather provides a unique perspective that is valued by her readers and clients. www.btldconsulting.com www.behindtheleasingdesk.com
With 23 years of industry experience, Esther Bonardi currently serves as Senior Director of Marketing & Creative Services with Drucker & Falk. Esther specializes in strategic and promotional marketing for the multifamily housing industry, as well as creative services. She is a national speaker at industry conferences, including the National Apartment Association’s Education Conference, Multihousing World, NAHB’s Pillars of the Industry, and Multifamilypro’s National Brainstorming Sessions. Currently residing in Raleigh, NC, Esther’s geographic experience includes the Mid Atlantic, Southeast and Midwest.
Jacqueline Bost is the Director, Marketing for Oakwood Temporary Housing. Jac is a 17 year B2B and B2C Marketing veteran with 8 years industry experience offering expertise in both conventional apartments and global temporary housing. Jac is a strategy specialist with a focus on organizational transformation, vertical and horizontal segmentation (with specialty in Government marketing) and channel optimization. Understanding the importance of VOC in developing strategic multi-layered campaigns has been key to leading Oakwood to receive the CHPA Tower of Excellence Marketing Award for the past 3 years. This is Jac’s 7th year as a Facilitator and she is thrilled to be back at Brainstorming for another year of working with the best in the business!
Tonya Boutwell began her career in Multifamily Management as a leasing agent in 1999 and has since worked her way up to Director of Training. She is currently managing, developing and maintaining a comprehensive training program for more than 500 employees at CLK Multifamily Management where she has been the Director of Training for 5 years. Tonya graduated from Delta State University in 1996 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Criminal Justice. While in school she was a commissioned Sheriff’s Deputy for the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Department. She was also a member of the Student Government Association holding offices in Student Functions and Student Recruiting. As a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority she held positions as Vice President of Pan-Hellenic, member Development, Social Events and Pledge Training. She is currently a member of The National Apartment Association, Apartment Association of Greater Memphis and The Memphis Chamber of Commerce.
Jill Bounds, CAM, CAPS is Texas Regional Manager for Abbey Residential.
Her specialty is successfully filling lease-up communities with creative marketing plans and hiring the talent necessary to stabilize occupancy ahead of budget.
A strong training background provides support to developing that talent to the maximum potential. Jill’s 29 years in the apartment industry have earned valuable experience in both good economic times and periods of recession.
Ginny Bowden began her career in property management in the early 80’s and has survived the many market conditions through the decades. Ginny started as a Leasing Consultant and over the years grew into the Marketing & Training Director Roles with several National Companies overseeing the Southeast. After, 18 years on the property management side Ginny set forth on a new adventure and joined the vendor side of our business working for a National Publication and Advertising Agency. Four years ago she found her home with the Grace Hill Gang which provides her the opportunity to work with industry professionals across the nation. Ginny lives in Alpharetta, GA (just a little north of Atlanta) with her husband Larry, stepsons Dustin & Scott and 3 precious pups – Sasha, Casey and Missy who remind her each day that “Life is Good”. To learn more about Ginny and Grace Hill, please visit www.gracehill.com.
Eve Bradford, CAPS, CAM, NALP is President and founder of Excel Training and Consulting, Inc. and one of the most knowledgeable industry experts. Eve’s varied experiences in the industry have provided her an in-depth knowledge of effective industry practices. From design to the closing table she can help you generate the highest revenues. She is knowledgeable of the Tax Credit requirements to meet fast lease up deadlines. Eve’s accomplishments include Gold Medallion Winner while with Lincoln Property Company and the Distinguished Sales Award for outstanding marketing and sales achievement as acknowledged by the Sales and Marketing Executives of Dallas. She also holds a Texas real estate license and is a Legend in Education. Eve is a featured speaker for state and national conferences. Visit her online at www.evebradford.com.
“Eve had my attention from start to finish. Eve delivered a fantastic motivating presentation today from basics to legal. Eve went beyond any expectations about what I thought I would learn today.”
Leah Brewer has been affectionately dubbed the “Leasing Queen” for the fun ways she has approached apartment occupancy challenges in her 25 industry years, from a leasing consultant, to a consultant for leasing. Her unique and creative training and marketing solutions have won industry awards for her clients for Best Model, Best Marketing Theme, Excellence in Education and Best Brochure. Leah established Full House Marketing® in 1995, supporting the apartment industry with the services that help apartments have their own “Full House” through customized marketing, staffing and training solutions. In 2000, Leah expanded the availability of quality training programs and staffing services by teaming up with Rebecca Rosario, who opened Full House Marketing® offices in Raleigh and Charlotte, NC. www.FullHouseMarketing.com. To better serve her clients, Leah is always on the look-out for appealing ideas. She finds many engaging concepts used in other industries that can easily and inexpensively be modified for unique and distinctive use within our industry. Her phrase “Be Purple” captures this idea. Additionally, Leah holds her NALP and CAM designations, and is actively involved in her local apartment association as well as serving on the Board of Directors for the PMA of Michigan. She served as a Team Instructor for the National Apartment Association’s Advanced Instructor Training and as a Speaker at the NAA Education Conferences this past June.
Mychelle Burns is the Director of Marketing for Verde Apartment Communities where she oversees marketing operations and activities for over 4,500 class A and B apartment homes located in numerous submarkets throughout Texas. Prior to joining Verde, she worked as Regional Marketing Coordinator for AMLI Residential where she oversaw marketing activities for twenty-six class A assets located throughout Texas and Southern California. Mychelle has also served as a seminar presenter for the Apartment Association of Tarrant County.
Tina Cavaco, CAPS holds the position of Senior Vice President of Operations for Centra Partners, LLC . With over 30 years of personnel, administrative, operational and marketing experience Ms. Cavaco is responsible for Centra’s corporate and asset administration portfolio oversight. Her experience in both marketing and management of over 15,000 multi family units located in five states sets her apart as an industry specialist. During Tina’s career, she has acquired an effective combination of experience in both commercial and multi-family operations/management and is able to skillfully represent Centra Partners with their diverse client portfolio. Ms. Cavaco holds the National Apartment Association designation of Certified Apartment Property Supervisor, has trained in the CPM candidate program, and is an active member and course instructor for the Houston Apartment Association. She serves on various committees, i.e., Chairperson for HAA Go-Getters, member of the Speakers and Community Relations Committee and the Fair Housing Committee. Ms. Cavaco was awarded the prestigious Go-Getter of the Year Award for 1999 and is a member of the Texas Apartment Association Triple Crown Club. Tina is married and Mom to 2 sons, 2 step sons and 1 step daughter. Hobbies include riding her Harley, golf and is an avid reader She is proud to be a Brainstorming 13 year facilitator!
Douglas D. Chasick, CPM®, CAPS, CAS, SLE, Adv. RAM, CLP, CDEI, “The Apartment Doctor”, is the Senior VP of Multifamily Professional Services for CallSource. With over 35 years of investment real estate experience, he began as the Resident Manager of a 524-unit apartment property, and has been the President or CEO of five real estate companies, responsible for portfolios of over 28,000 apartments, and more than 8 million square feet of commercial, retail and industrial properties. An nationally recognized speaker and author, Doug was awarded his CPM® in 1979 and was a member of the IREM National Faculty for eight years. He is a Senior Instructor member of the NAAEI Faculty, leading the Advanced Instructor Training course and NAAEI designation courses. A licensed Real Estate Broker in Florida and Georgia, he is also a licensed Expert Fair Housing Instructor in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and an NAA/HUD certified Lead Hazard Awareness Training course Instructor. Doug is a 2010 recipient of the National Apartment Association’s prestigious Apartment Career and Education (ACE) Award. Contact Doug at dchasick@gmail.com, www.aptdoctor.com, www.twitter.com/aptdoctor, www.facebook.com/aptdoctor, and www.linkedin.com/in/dougchasick.
Kim Cory has over 15 years of experience in sales, marketing and education within the multi-family industry. For the last 5 years Kim has been the Director of Sales/Marketing of MGI Communities based out of Columbus, OH. MGI Communities has encouraged Kim to utilize her passion for creativity, marketing, customer service and PR in Student Housing. Her dedication and passion is what keeps driving this small company to grow and embrace utilizing new technology and new means for marketing and managing their communities online. Along with her passion for Student Housing, Kim also has a deep passion for nutrition and exercise where she is currently continuing to develop and brand her own business Kim Cory Fitness. You can find Kim’s work online @ www.universityvillage.com & Kim Cory Fitness … the queen of Hyper-Tasking!
Stacy Cotton began her career in the multi-family industry 15 years ago as a Leasing Consultant. Since that time she has held positions that allowed her to manage communities of all types from Tax Credit to A+ conventional and stabilized to lease ups. Stacy worked as a Regional/Operations Manager for both Archstone Communities and Lincoln Property Company and also spent almost two years as the Regional Training Manager for Archstone in TX and TN. She has been with Apartments.com for almost 6 years and enjoys providing her customers with products, service and support that allow them to maximize their internet marketing efforts. Stacy is also active in the Austin Apartment Association and currently serves as a Tri-Chair of the Education Committee.
Krishna Cox is responsible for the marketing and advertising efforts for 13,000+ units, as well as for the training of more than 300 on-site associates throughout ConAm’s Northern/Central California, and Inland Empire regional portfolio. She works directly with the regional vice president, regional office staff, and community associates, with regard to associate performance and associate career development. Ms. Cox began her career in property management as a leasing consultant for Trammell Crow Residential Services in 1997. Throughout her career she has assisted with property lease-ups and renovations, and worked with both conventional and affordable housing projects, giving her a wide range of industry knowledge.
Stephen Cox is a nationally recognized, powerful and motivational speaker who began his career in property management over 16 years ago after recently receiving his degree in Theatrical Arts Performance from Southwestern Actors Conservatory. In pursuing his dream of becoming a famous Hollywood film actor he quickly realized the importance of having a paycheck. He began his employment as a leasing consultant with the hopes of soon finding that dream acting job. Discovering he enjoyed property management he devoted all his time to learning all he could and soon found himself gaining recognition and winning awards for top performance and eventually earning the position of National Vice President of Marketing and Training working for some of the nations most acclaimed and recognized companies. In his field, Stephen is considered the foremost expert in persuasion and negotiation techniques with an emphasis on Nuero-Linguistic Programming. He has a strong commitment to providing outstanding multifamily training and has served on the education sub-committee for the development of the 2005 National Apartment Leasing Program (NALP) with NAA. Stephen is both a locally and nationally favorite speaker for many associations and organizations. Stephen has a relaxed yet highly spirited philosophical approach to property management sales training which is both insightful and entertaining. He is considered among his peers to be the ultimate salesman. With his combined experience in sales and theatrical arts, Stephen wows his audience with incredible enthusiasm and excitement!
A 10 year veteran to Brainstorming, Robyn Cue has 22 years experience in the Multifamily industry that encompasses both the property management and vendor side. Robyn began her career as a Leasing agent in Southern California and fell in love with the industry. She advanced through the different on-site positions and quickly discovered that her true passion was Marketing and Training. As the Regional Marketing Director for Camden Property Trust, Robyn was responsible for marketing and training for 2000 units in Denver, Colorado and as a Regional Trainer for Holland Residential was responsible for training in Colorado, Arizona and Southern California. Robyn is currently the Online Marketing Advisor for MyNewPlace and continues her passion for training and marketing with clients in markets all across the country. As a long time facilitator, her high energy and enthusiasm is second to none! Robyn is based in Denver, Colorado where she lives with her 2 beautiful daughters. You can contact Robyn at rcue@mynewplace.com.
Kathy Dahl is the publisher of Apartment Finder – Sacramento, America’s fastest growing multi-family publication online and in print. It is a part of Network Communications Inc., and is a leading source of information for persons seeking apartments. With over 21 years in multi family marketing, management, and client service, Kathy understands what is necessary to be successful in our industry. Integrity, commitment, follow-through, and responsiveness are paramount to what many people commonly refer to as “customer service”. Her experience includes 13 years of developing and managing apartment advertising publications on the West Coast as well as being a regional property manager/ trainer with FPI Property Management, Inc.
Tracy Dean is Vice President, Sales Engineering for RealPage, Inc. and has over 30 years of experience in multifamily property management, software, and technology. She attended the University of Texas at El Paso and Dallas, worked for ten years first as a leasing consultant then as a marketing director, property manager, and portfolio accountant in the southwestern United States before joining Rent Roll, Inc., the predecessor of RealPage, in 1989. Over the years she has served the company in many different roles and has helped hundreds of property management companies implement new systems. Today, Tracy leads a team of top-notch professionals who support the RealPage sales team and serve as internal and external product and industry experts to evoke confidence in RealPage’s technology infrastructure and identify business opportunities with new and current clients while determining solutions that meet customer business objectives. www.realpage.com, the ONLY completely integrated system for the rental housing industry.
Mary Lawler Ellis has over 18 years experience within the multifamily industry on the East Coast, including direct experience as a property manager, marketing director, regional director, sales trainer and national sales manager. She has won numerous awards and has been featured in The Apartments Magazine and Apartment Industry Magazine. Mary is currently the Northeast Regional Sales Manager for Apartments.com.
Rick Ellis, CPM, is a 55-year-old teenager who has been intimately involved in the apartment business for over 29 years. Starting as an onsite assistant manager and leasing consultant, Rick directed a fast growing apartment portfolio from two properties in the Dallas area to over 6000 units in four states. In 1984, he founded ELLIS Consulting Group in Irving, Texas. Now the name ELLIS has become synonymous with the finest market consulting, training, and contract leasing to the multi-family industry. Rick also founded the largest apartment mystery shopping company in the United States. Visit our website for a complete list of Rick’s training offering and presentations dates at www.ellisconsulting.com Rick continues to practice and excel in property management through his management company, ELLIS HomeSource. This company specializes in “offsite” management handling a sizable portfolio of single-family homes, duplexes, and condominiums throughout the Dallas/Ft.Worth Metroplex. Finally, Rick is the broker and owner/operator of J. Ellis Apartment Locators with three offices in the Dallas/Forth Worth area. Rick lives in Coppell, Texas with sons, J.R. (19) and Phillip (16). Rick is a graduate of Abilene Christian University receiving a BA in 1977 and a Masters in Theology in 1979. He holds a Texas Real Estate Broker’s license and is an Eagle Scout.
Terri L. Euchner has been in the multifamily housing industry in Arizona since 1983. Ms. Euchner has held such positions as Portfolio Director for a diverse group of communities, including development, Director of Marketing and Education and Vice President of Operations as well as business owner. She also became a national speaker and trainer for the multifamily housing industry in 2003. Ms. Euchner attended the Universal Academy for Music in Princeton, New Jersey, where she studied music and visited Europe on vocal tour. This is where she discovered her ability to capture and stimulate an audience. Turning the arts into “business arts”, she began her career in property management with the same enthusiasm and passion as she had on stage. Ms. Euchner put her “arts” to work in 2005 with her own property management company, Sullens & Euchner; becoming a leading player in property asset management for the Phoenix market. She and her partner Pamela Sullens, provide property management, asset review and team development training through Sullens & Euchner, Inspired Management Services. Ms. Euchner is involved with the Arizona Multihousing Association as a member of the Board of Directors and has served on many Phoenix chapter committees, and currently chairs Education and Communications Committees. Currently Ms. Euchner is a Trainer for the National Apartment Leasing Professional Program, and was honored by the Arizona Multihousing Association as Property Supervisor of the Year for 1999. She currently holds an Arizona Real Estate License, LIHTC Certification and is attending courses for her CPM through IREM. Visit her online at www.sullensandeuchner.com.
Kristi Fickert began her career in Property Management after attending Ohio University, where she majored in Public Administration. With over 14 years of industry experience (including 4 years in the Hotel/Hospitality market), she has held various positions, including Leasing Consultant, Leasing Manager and Corporate Recruiter. For the past 10 years, Kristi has been the Senior Sales & Marketing Director for Village Green and is responsible for the leasing, marketing, training, recruitment and lease up efforts of more than 28 properties in nine different states across the U.S. She is experienced with both suburban and urban assets, including new construction and renovation projects, along with due diligence assignments and acquisitions. Kristi is an instructor for the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, Dayton and Columbus, Ohio Apartment Associations and has been a panelist and speaker for a variety of local and national marketing events. Her passionate, creative and high-energy approach to sales and marketing continue to make Village Green an innovative leader in the Multi-Family industry.
Teresa Garza is the Training Manager for Venterra Realty. She has worked in the multi-family industry for over 18 years; several of those years were as a Property Manager specializing in marketing and lease-up for new construction assets. Teresa is certified in training design, delivery and facilitation and holds an NALP (National Apartment Leasing Professional) designation within the industry.
Heidi Gould is a Director of Real Estate for Greystar Real Estate Partners, currently the 3rd largest management company in the nation. She has been in property management for over 19 years. In that time, she has been actively involved in new construction, repositioning of properties and renovations. She specializes in Conventional, Tax Credit and HUD Subsidized Housing. Heidi has been certified in Tax Credit and HUD Subsidized Housing and has held the CPM designation through the Institute of Real Estate Management since 1996. Heidi has served on the SF Chapter Board of IREM and is a member of the National Apartment Association. She received her Salespersons License in the State of CA.
Mary Gwyn, CPM is the Chief Innovator for Apartment Dynamics and is passionate about apartment marketing and training, specializing in occupancy and income improvement. She has successfully taught many clients to increase revenue by training away concessions, and continually develops and implements successful marketing strategies, leasing, leadership and sales training, and practical yield management techniques. A Certified Property Manager (CPM) with over 20 years in the multifamily industry, Mary is often called on to consult directly with owners of under-performing assets. Her insights, experience and “digging in” to the problems enable her to determine strategic solutions and develop action plans that improve performance results! Mary speaks all over the country for owner operators, apartment associations, and industry conferences such as Multi-Housing World, Brainstorming and NAA. Her firm, Apartment Dynamics, manages apartments, with a reputation for revenue growth! Log on to the Apartment Dynamics website to read some of Mary’s insightful articles published in national publications such as UNITS Magazine, or just to learn more about her company’s consulting, training and property management services. If you need a dynamic speaker or leading trainer, excellent property management services, or a Strategic Marketing Plan sure to produce results, contact Mary via www.AptDynamics.com!
Linda Hansen, ARM, HCCP is the Management Coordinator and Marketing Specialist for Yarco Company. Linda has 31 years of multifamily housing industry experience and has managed over 1,500 units and supervised over 3,800 in marketing and training. She is also experienced in Section 42 marketing. Linda reins superior in training and motivating the sales team. She is a speaker on beginning with social media, marketing and training. Linda is the winner of six Crystal Merit Awards, awarding excellence in the apartment industry, including two time winner of the Grand Achievement Award. She participates as a member of the take over team on new property acquisitions, assessment and rehabilitation; coordinates scheduling and dissemination of information for marketing and sales. Linda has completed the management and marketing course of Dorothy Gourley and Associates, Inc.; is a three time facilitator for the Multifamilypro Sales and Marketing Magic Brainstorming Events and is currently attending the Social Media Magic University Course. She is a licensed real estate salesperson in Missouri and Kansas.
For 30 years, Donna Hickey has been an inspiration to countless of people in a wide variety of industries, from housing, to transportation, to finance, to education. A past member of the board of the Illinois National Speakers Association, Donna has provided seminars for the American Society of Training and Development (ASTD), Asian Region Training and Development Organization (ARTDO), International Training and Development Organization(IFTDO) , Community Association Institute (Condo Industry), American International Real Estate Exposition and Conference (AIREEC) and the Multi-housing World Conference and Expo. In addition, Donna sits on the board of the National Apartment Association Education Institute, recently speaking at the National Apartment Association Student Housing Conference (NAA). A sought-after, world-wide keynote and seminar speaker, Donna has appeared on London TV in “The Wright Stuff” and has been featured in numerous publications, including the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, Cleveland Times, and Calgary, Canada newspapers. A licensed real estate broker, Donna has a BA degree in Real Estate Management and an MBA in Business Administration.
Gerry Hunt performs industry miracles, turning around under performing apartment communities through enhanced operations, marketing, leasing and retention techniques. Her multifamily housing background has been primarily in management and operations, 11 years as a Regional Manager with a Michigan-based management company, 3 years as Project Turnaround Specialist and now with the Client Services division of McKinley, Inc. Her passion is for staff development, marketing and turning around under achieving properties. Blending the creativity of unique marketing with the necessity of quantifiable operations along with mentoring an on-site team to build and maintain positive momentum has proven to be a successful formula. Gerry is a regular Facilitator at Multifamily Pro’s Annual Brainstorming Sessions and frequently contributes articles to national industry publications.
Terry Jackson, a Traininging and Management Specialist in multifamily properties, has more than eighteen years of experience in the property management industry. Prior to opening up her own speaking and consulting firm www.traintoretain.com , Terry held numerous positions in the industry including, property manager, leasing consultant, and Director of Training and Marketing for some of the largest organizations in real estate. Terry’s creative marketing skills and superior management abilities have won her numerous awards including Apartment Associations’ prestigious Award of Excellence. She demonstrates her ingenuity and expertise through the exploration and implementation of alternative marketing methods for which she received TAA’s Marketing Director of the Year Award. Terry is a skilled and dynamic trainer. Terry trains with local apartment associations helping fellow industry professionals towards their respective CAM, NALP, and CAPS designations. Terry is also a frequent facilitator and presenter at the Brainstorming conferences and contributes articles on training to the published MultifamilyPro Magazine. She is a two time graduate of the Dale Carnegie Leadership course, where she was recognized as an Outstanding Performer and sharpened her interpersonal skills. She is the recipient of numerous commendations from Owners, Supervisors, and onsite professionals who have attended her training classes. Terry inspires, motivates, and encourages her students to excel.
Joe Kaye is Director of Sales and Marketing for Direct Energy, part of the Centrica group of companies, one of the largest multi-state providers of retail energy services in North America, with more than 5 million residential and commercial customer relationships. He is responsible for all aspects of the Sales and Marketing programs within Direct Energy’s North American footprint, overseeing both the commercial and residential customers. Prior to joining Direct Energy, he was National Sales and Marketing Trainer for Move.com, where his responsibilities included overseeing a national sales force as well as training and development for both the sales force and its clients. Joe has extensive experience in the multi-family market where he started his career in onsite management and has worked in all facets in property management, before moving into the supplier arena for the multi-family industry.
Amy Kosnikowski is a proven leader in sales, leasing, management and marketing real estate assets bringing over 19 years of passion and industry experience. As a nationally recognized expert for her talents and achievements, Amy has served at the executive level with national REIT’s in addition to privately held real estate investment companies. Based out of Charlotte, North Carolina, Amy serves as the principal of Quintessential focused on improving bottom line solutions. Amy’s expertise is frequently highlighted at national conferences, expert panel events and educational seminars. She currently serves as a board member of the National Multifamily Speaker Alliance. Amy gladly shares her extensive experience with associations and organizations across the country as a national speaker, industry educator, marketing strategist and sales coach. Contact Amy at www.theQstandard.com.
Mark Lacey is the Director of Sales, West for Move.com. He has done two Tours of Duty at Move.com his current tour began in 8/04 and the first tour was from 3/02 to 6/03. This meets the definition of insanity (repeating the same behavior twice expecting different results…for Move!). Mark loves working with his customers and the team to bring low cost quality leads at Move! In between and dressed up as a “Call Genie” trying to sell new systems technology at RealPage. Before that Mark sold and mangled sales of print/Internet as a sales mangler…er manager at For Rent for 7 years. Going back to beginning of his apartment industry experience, Mark hired lots of unsuspecting people into the biz as a Human Resources Manager at Arnel Management in Costa Mesa from ’93 to ‘95. He kept Enterprise Rent A Car from becoming the giant it is today for 7 whole years while working there after college. Somehow Mark managed to get an undergrad degree at UCLA and go on to MBA school at Cal State Fullerton where he flunked out and got lost in the pub. He’s a lover not a fighter. Mark is happily life partnered to Chad and living in Studio City with the cutest Jack Russell “Terror” ever, Kramer.
Kelly LaGuardia is a dynamic Trainer and Property Manager for Apartment Dynamics. Among the many things that set her apart, Kelly has achieved incredible revenue and occupancy success and has NEVER given a concession in her career! She has earned her National Apartment Association Leasing Professional (NALP) and Certified Apartment Manager (CAM), as well as completing the National Apartment Association Instructor Education Institute. In 2008 Kelly was named the National Apartment Association (NAA) 2008 Paragon Certified Apartment Manager of the Year. Bringing energy and expertise to every presentation, she is a speaker and multi-time facilitator for Multifamilypro’s Brainstorming Conference, trainer for NAAEI and NC Real Estate Commission Continuing Education, and has written for UNITS Magazine
Sandi LaManna, ARM® began her diverse career in multi-family housing in 1986, as a part-time weekend consultant while attending college. Within six months she was promoted to Assistant Manager and a year later was managing her first community of 665 units. Sandi has twelve years of working in student housing. Currently at Washington University in St. Louis successfully managing over 1200+ units in three distinct and diverse neighborhoods, Sandi has insight on what the University expects in housing students, staff & faculty. Sandi is responsible for the management, marketing, customer service and leasing efforts for the off-campus housing department. She is an award-winning, accomplished professional specializing in training and motivation. Earning the Accredited Residential Manager certification from IREM in 1998 and serving on the IREM Board for nine years, Sandi has made the commitment to teach others the true spirit of customer service. Sharing her innovative ideas and enthusiasm with leasing teams and property managers across the bi-state area Sandi continues to make her mark in the multi-family world. Sandi is the proud mother of Jake, a twenty-one year old college man pursuing a degree in Sports Management, and the beautiful, talented eleven year old, Madelyn. None of this could be done without the support of her husband John.
Eric Leonard, National Sales for Appliance Warehouse of America has 11 years of Multifamily industry experience. He works directly with most national management companies in terms of leasing and purchasing appliances. Appliance Warehouse of America is the largest company in the U.S. that leases washers and dryers and is also a Certified Apartment Supplier (CAS) for NAA. Eric was nominated for the Paragon Achievement Award for NAA in ’09, nominated for Olin Stele Award for TAA in ’05, was a previous board member for AATC and has served on numerous committees such as NAA, TAA, AAA, AAGD and AATC.
Colleen LeRose is a Senior Performance Consultant in the training department with Banner Property Management, and also is the Property Manager of an apartment community in Portage, Indiana. She has 19 years experience in property management and as been with Banner for 15 years. Colleen specializes in leasing and operations training along with managing 168 apartments. She holds the National Compliance Professional Executive designation from Elizabeth Moreland Consulting and is a Certified Occupancy Specialist through the National Council of Housing Management.
Ginger Long has twenty three years of experience in the property management industry. She began her career as a leasing consultant for Harvey Freeman & Sons in Memphis, TN. in 1987. She received several awards in sales and proceeded to advance in the industry taking on many challenging positions. Managing her first property at the age of twenty-two, she realized she had found her career path. Mrs. Long has worked in many facets of property management. Her husband’s position took her to Indianapolis, IN., where she worked for Edward Rose of Indiana. There she worked as a Property Manager and then on to Corporate Director, training the 15 sites on their Corporate Suite Program. Mrs. Long came on board with CLK Multifamily Management Group in 2002 as Director of Marketing. Covering 13 states and twenty seven cities, she stays very active in training and marketing their communities. Her home is Indianapolis, Indiana where she is the wife of Bryan Long, a Federal Express Aircraft Technician and the proud mother of Hunter (16), and Kayla (12). When she is not traveling and thinking up new ideas, she is a dedicated wife and mom and all around carpool driver.
Amanda J. Maclin, CAPS, CAM, HCCP is the Director of Property & Personnel Development for Greystone Property Management Company is responsible for overseeing the Property Assessments and Personnel Training for Greystone’s 26 property’s located in the Midwest, South East, and South. With the companies rapid growth, Amanda is active in property take-over’s and renovations. She specializes in both Market Rate and Section 42 properties.
Cathy Macaione, President, Cathy Macaione Consulting Services, an Apartment Marketing and Management Specialist, has more than 27 years in the Real Estate Industry. Cathy’s creative marketing skills have won her numerous awards including Chicago’s prestigious CAMME and ALEX awards. She demonstrates her creativity and expertise through the exploration and implementation of alternative marketing methods. Prior to starting her own consulting business, Cathy held numerous positions, ranging from leasing professional to property manager to marketing/training director, for several large management companies. Cathy is also an experienced trainer and developer of “Personal Touch” workshops and seminars. Cathy is a frequent contributor of articles on marketing, maintenance, leasing and management tactics to industry publications. She facilitates and presents for Sales, Marketing and Magic’s Brainstorming Sessions, Multi Housing World, Home Builders, Several Apartment Associations and Management Companies across the country. Cathy is the author of “Six Days to Success: Training the New Leasing Professional” and creator of “Stopping the Real Estate Gremlins”, a complete Video DVD training series. Cathy is a national speaker and speaks on topics related to Leasing, Marketing, Maintenance, Customer Service, Tax Credit, Image and Resident Retention. Cathy holds an Illinois Brokers license and has earned the H.C.C.P designation. For further information on Cathy, please contact her at macaione@ix.netcom.com or 630-800-6895
Emily Martin is the General Sales Manager for For Rent Media Solutions™ in Greater Philadelphia, PA. She has been in the multifamily housing industry for 6 years. Emily has worked on both the property management as well as the vendor side of the industry. She has been with For Rent for 5 years and specializes in marketing, business development and sales. www.forrent.com
Steve Matre is Director of Education, Marketing, and Development for Banner. His focus is developing performance programs for both new hires and established Banner associates. These include education, recognition, leadership development, and solutions to current challenges. In addition, Steve assists all communities with designing and measuring Marketing Programs that focus on attracting prospect traffic and improving the customer experience. Also involved in organizational effectiveness, Steve focuses on services and products that will add value and increase Banner’s effectiveness in property management operations. Prior to this, Steve was Senior Regional Manager for Banner, overseeing operations for the firm’s property portfolio. Prior to joining Banner, Steve was Vice President of Operations for Sherman Residential, overseeing a portfolio of 9,000 apartments in 6 states. Steve’s 15 years of experience in the industry includes property and asset management, accounting supervision, marketing, employee training, budget preparation, investor relations, financial analysis, and design and implementation of procedures and controls. A graduate with majors in Finance and English from the University of Wisconsin, Steve is a Certified Public Accountant and Accredited Residential Manager. He serves as an informational resource and editorial contributor for industry publications and speaks on various management and motivational topics.
Debbie Oaks is the Director of Training and Development at Village Green. Village Green has owns and/or manages 131 properties / over 34,000 units, throughout the United States. She has been in the multi family housing industry for over 8 years and is responsible for the management of Village Green’s in-house University. The University of Village Green is comprised of a week long new hire orientation and over 40 continuing education courses. The courses range from Sales and Marketing, Maintenance, Operations to Human Resources and beyond. VG is in the process of integrating CallSource’s Private Learning University and course content into the VG University. Debbie is a student at Cleary University pursuing a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a minor in Event and Meeting Management.
Lee O’Conner is one of the two Principal Founders of Ellipse Communications. In November 2009, became the President of Ellipse. With her many years of leadership and experience, Lee will lead Ellipse into a new era. Her advanced education includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Southern Methodist University (SMU) as well as a Community MBA from the University of Texas. Lee also holds a graduate Certificate in Finance from SMU and completed the Executive Program in Strategic Sales Management from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Outside of Ellipse, Lee currently holds a Governing Committee position for the DFW Federal Club. In her spare time, Lee is an avid golfer and enjoys playing in association events and tournaments.
www.ellipseinc.com
Donna Olson has over 25 plus years of training, marketing and management experience. Donna is Founder and President of Olson Training, a company that offers performance consulting, diversity management, motivation and a wide variety of training workshops and seminars. Olson Training is also available for temporary staffing/coaching in a Manager or Supervisor role and can coordinate and/or assist with your next Leadership Conference or Retreat. Better known as Trainer Donna to thousands who have heard her speak, Donna Olson is recognized as a Workshop Leader, Dynamite Trainer, Awesome Conference Emcee and “Special Guest” Crowd Pleaser! She has designed, implemented, and presented training, sales/leasing, marketing and leadership programs. Donna has also been recognized as an expert on communication, diversity, harassment and fair housing issues. A former beauty pageant and dare we say a drama queen, she would rather be on stage or in your conference room training than even breathing! She has received extensive advanced training through performing hundreds of troubleshooting assignments for management companies throughout the country. Donna believes in “teaching by reaching” and has influenced many to walk away with her motto – “If it has to be, it’s up to me, attitude is everything!” Donna is a proud Charter Member of National Multifamily Speaker Alliance, serves on the Education & Enrichment Committee for the National Association of Professional Women – San Antonio, TX Chapter, and a member of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. Contact Donna at www.mytrainerdonna.com or TrainerDomna@olsontraining.net
Cathy Otterbine began her career as a Leasing Consultant, leasing 435 apartments in her first eleven months! She quickly progressed through the ranks to eventually run a Management Company. She owned and operated a National Speaking Company for 15 years, and has delivered over 2500 Seminars Nationwide! She has done consulting with Owners/Management Companies and partnered with Marie Madden in a Marketing and Design Company in the Dallas Ft. Worth market for ten years. Cathy’s strong operations background coupled with her contagious personality has made her an Industry favorite. Cathy joined For Rent Media Solutions in 2009, to continue to work with all of her clients, and help them reach their goals with cutting edge and strategic advertising!
Jackie Ramstedt is a nationally renowned Motivational Keynote Speaker, National Trainer, Consultant, and Performance Coach who has more than 27 years experience in the multi-housing industry. She has spoken to thousands of industry professionals on a national level for the National Apartment Association, the Multi Housing World Conference, Multifamily Pro Annual Brainstorming Events, the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM), Grace Hill, Inc. Educational Chat Forums, National Affordable Housing conferences, and numerous state and local Associations and management companies throughout the United States and Canada. Jackie is also a member of the prestigious Apartment All Stars Team national tours specializing in customer service, resident retention, leasing and management solutions. Jackie earned her CAM and CAPS designations back to back and her CAS (Certified Apartment Supplier) designation in 2001. Jackie was awarded the 2008 Faculty Member of the Year from her local Austin Apartment Association, where she has served on the Board of Directors and Education Committee Chair. Jackie is an accredited instructor teaching all designation courses as well as core and MCE courses for the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). Jackie’s is an accomplished author and her articles have been featured in some of the industry’s foremost leading publications. Her impressive clientele listing includes many of the national management and investment corporations in the United States. Her energetic and enthusiastic speaking style makes her seminars exciting with “real world solutions for real world challenges” empowering others to reach their full professional and personal potential through “balance” in their lives. Nothing is more contagious than enthusiasm! www.JackieRamstedt.com
Rebecca Rosario, NALP, CAM, celebrates 19 years in her property management career spanning from a leasing consultant to a regional director. Her accolades include successfully initiating and managing a corporate suite program expanding her company’s market, services and income. In addition, four years with a major industry publication endowed Rebecca with extensive experience as an advertising and marketing business partner. This blend of on-site, corporate and marketing experience is what makes Rebecca the ideal consultant and training expert in helping each client create their own “full house”. Rebecca is now President and “Leasing Queen” of Full House Marketing® in North Carolina, with offices in Raleigh and Charlotte. Rebecca serves on the Board of Directors for the Triad Apartment Association (Greensboro, NC) as Secretary after two terms on the Board of Directors of the Triangle Apartment Association (Raleigh, NC). She is actively involved in four North Carolina NAA affiliate associations and won Vendor/Supplier Team of the Year from the Triangle Apartment Association. In addition to earning her NALP and CAM designations, she volunteers time to teach NALP, CAM and CAPS modules throughout North Carolina. She is on the faculty of NAAEI, graduating from their Advanced Instructor Training. Rebecca is a NAA Conference and MultifamilyPro presenter.
Janet Rosseth has been involved in marketing multi-family housing for over 15 years, with experience in all facets of branding, site promotion, training and tracking ad effectiveness and general marketing strategies for lease-ups, market rate, tax credit housing, section 8, senior housing and more. Janet has held responsibility of over 15,000 units in 17 states and varying markets. She is currently Director of Marketing for StuartCo in Minneapolis, and is responsible for roughly 5,000 units of market rate housing in MN, WI, and NE. Janet’s focus with StuartCo includes branding, market analysis, graphic design, SEO, media buying, and training. A primary focus in 2010 is to build and expand StuartCo’s online customer experience with social networking, resident portals, and web enhancements. Janet is excited to participate in Brainstorming for the 3rd time as a facilitator, and has attended a total of 8 Brainstorming sessions!
Sharon Ruttenbur fell in love with the multifamily industry over 20 years ago leasing apartments while getting for her Real Estate license. She joined Lyon Communities in 1991 and is currently the Director of Sales & Training specializing in researching, developing and implementing creative high-tech solutions to keep Lyon on the cutting-edge of the industry. Sharon is an active member of the American Society for Training & Development and enjoys developing new associates in multifamily as well as teaching courses for the South Coast Apartment Association’s California Certified Resident Manager program and speaking at various industry events. Many years ago Sharon discovered the Multifamily Pro Brainstorming sessions and embraced the concept of networking, sharing ideas in a high-energy, fun atmosphere. The Brainstorming sessions have also provided her with the latest industry tools, trends and technologies keeping her on top of the industry. Currently residing in Orange County California, her geographic areas of expertise are in the California, Colorado, Florida and Georgia markets. Sharon has two children, Jake 14 and Taylor 10, and loves the great outdoors; wake boarding, skiing, golfing, biking and camping. www.LyonCommunities.com.
Anne Sadovsky has been in this industry since 1968. She is a member of the National Speakers Association and has earned the prestigious designation of Certified Speaking Professional. Based in Dallas Texas, she is the former Vice President of Marketing and Education for Lincoln Property Company. She is a popular guest on radio and television talk shows, is a contributing editor and featured writer for a variety of publications and is often quoted in newspaper and magazine articles pertaining to the apartment industry. She was named one of the top trainers in the industry by MultiHousing News. Her success story has been featured in Money Magazine, Ladies Home Journal and Texas Business. Mirabella Magazine named her one of the 1,000 women of the 90’s. Multi Family Pro magazine and Sales and Marketing Magic Brainstorming Conference honored Anne with a Legends Award in late 2005. She has flown over one million miles on American Airlines plus half a million on other airlines, sharing her knowledge and wit. As a consultant, Anne has saved and made her clients millions of dollars. Visit Anne online at www.annesadovsky.com.
Jonathan Saar is the Director of Marketing and Sales for The Training Factor. He has over 15 years of marketing and customer service experience. In December 2009 he was hired by The Training Factor and has been using Social Media tools extensively to brand the company he works for and to educate those in the industry on the benefits that come from using Social Media properly. He has experience with blogging, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, and other social media tools. He is now providing live training for property management companies who are trying to reach out into the space. Multifamily education on all levels is what he works hard to promote each and every day. Contact him via www.thetrainingfactor.com.
He’s the expert. He knows multi-family like the back of his hand, and he should. Russ Sandlin is the definitive authority in high-level strategies and training for the multi-family industry. For over three decades Russ has teamed with owners and managers across the nation. His training and consulting programs continue to remain on top because they’re timely, practical and work pro-actively. Most of all, they deliver a discernible return. Much of Russ’ success may be linked back to his extensive and hands-on background in multi-family. He truly knows what community staffs are up against because he’s been there. His client rooster includes industry giants such as; Equity Residential, Archstone-Smith, ConAm, The Dolben Company, Village Green, Mid-America Communities, Post Properties, Julian LeCraw, Home Properties and many more. Russ has helped define the change management process necessary to help organizations large and small make the transition to a new technologically focused environment. From 2000 to 2005 Russ work directly with MRI/Intuit to help develop their web based property management solution for the multifamily industry. Whether he’s speaking to on-site personnel, top-level managers or marketing and implementation teams, Russ is the forerunner in income-focused strategies for apartment leasing, marketing and management operations. Each seminar is packaged in style and wit. Russ’ candid and personable approach to training makes concepts easy to grasp, and simple to apply. Visit Russ online at www.russsandlin.com.
Katherine Sandlin is the Director of Marketing for the Multifamily Division of Harbor Group Management Co. in Norfolk, Virginia. She manages the marketing for over 17,000 units in 11 states. As a successful brand strategist with a proven ability to grow revenue and market share, Katherine has a proven track record of strategic positioning, creative conceptualization and leadership combined with an innate ability to build and maintain strong client and vendor relationships. Katherine has worked with diverse companies such as Millennium Management, Intuit Real Estate Solutions, ForRent.com and Landmark Communications. Katherine enjoys spending time in her new home with her husband Russ, the beach, sailing, and playing with her Weimaraner and English Black Lab, Sadie and Moxie.
Cecille Santos, Vice President of Marketing and Training leads the sales and marketing strategy for Mission Residential, including advertising, brand management and internet marketing. She is also responsible for developing and managing training courses to support Mission’s vision. Cecille began her career in the Multifamily Housing industry over 13 years ago as a Leasing Consultant and quickly moved into several sales and marketing roles throughout the DC Metro Area. Cecille is a principal player nationwide, facilitating workshops on leasing strategies and speaking nationally at various conferences. She has also championed several internship programs, which brings enthusiastic new recruits to the property management industry each year. In addition to developing company-wide programs, she coaches and mentors team members through sales training, troubleshooting, and generation of innovative ideas. Her background is diverse, having worked with tax credit, lease-up, up-scale and market-rate communities. She was chosen as the industry’s “Leader in Leasing Strategies” by Multifamily Executive Magazine and American Express and has been quoted in National Apartment Association’s (NAA) Units Magazine, as well as featured in NAA’s Education Institute Careers In Apartment Management DVD. Cecille holds a Bachelors degree from Virginia Tech’s College of Human Resources and Education, with a concentration in Residential Property Management.
Valerie M. Sargent has a passion for teaching others and making a difference. She began her career in the multifamily industry over 20 years ago as a leasing consultant, guiding her career toward training and marketing. Today she is a dynamic presenter and consultant working with clients to unlock the dynamic power within their associates. Valerie is an invaluable resource to help tackle nearly any business issue a company may encounter, and she specializes in leasing, sales, customer service and leadership. Her engaging and humorous presentation style creates a learning environment that is exciting, inspirational and memorable. By providing cohesive, educational and motivating experiences, Valerie takes pride in helping companies create effective and productive teams who love their jobs. Areas of expertise include: Training, Marketing, Consulting, On-Boarding, Coaching, Team Building, Corporate Retreats and Leadership Conferences. Valerie is a Charter Member of National Multifamily Speakers Alliance. She resides in Newport Beach, CA, and currently volunteers for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), an organization that advocates for abused or neglected children. Find her at www.ypooleandassoc.com.
Patty Morgan-Seager, President of Seager Marketing, is a personable and thought provoking national speaker with over 25 years of marketing, sales, leasing and training expertise in the advertising and multifamily industry. Patty has held a variety of positions that include Regional Director, Marketing and Training Director and National Sales Trainer. Patty is best known for her genuine enthusiasm, dedicated professionalism, and unique ability to inspire her clients to rethink the way they have always done things to achieve their highest potential. She frequently keeps plugged in to what’s really going on in the on-site world by leasing in the trenches! She incorporates real world scenarios and strategies in an informational, yet humorous setting. She is an author, frequent contributor to numerous Multifamily publications and a Certified Laughter Leader! Contact Patty at (614) 325-9770 or by E-mail at pattymorgan@seagermarketing.com; and please visit her website at seagermarketing.com.
Lia Nichole Smith is the Director of Marketing and Training for SPM Property Management, based in Birmingham, Alabama. She has over eleven years experience in property management, marketing, and training. Lia began her career in property management as a Leasing Associate and steadily moved up the ranks. It is in these experiences where she has found the most value in being able to relate to both onsite and corporate employees. Since coming to SPM in 2006, Lia has established the SPM Academy, a source of learning for all employees. The mission of the Academy is to provide quality, professional education in an environment which encourages learning, fosters creativity, and enables our team members to succeed at any level of the industry. Those who participate in Lia’s classes always walk away with valuable and practical knowledge. Comments from recent training include: “Lia is one of the best speakers I have ever heard. You can tell she loves what she is doing and is very natural in front of people. I always look forward to her classes-she has some of the best ideas.” Lia has presented at several industry events on topics related to affordable, conventional, and tax credit communities. Currently responsible for the marketing and training needs of 131 affordable and 18 conventional/tax credit communities, what Lia has found to be synonymous with all community types are value, quality and service, things every resident deserves. You can follow Lia on her blog, The Property Management Think Tank at http://propmgmtthinktank.blogspot.com.
Lori Snider is a professional speaker, author and marketing strategist, She is a frequent and requested national conference presenter and she is regularly sought for her keen insight regarding marketing trends. Her enthusiasm, sales skills and imaginative problem solving abilities are contagious, and her creative capabilities can take a company from average to exceptional through strategic, focused initiatives. Lori’s workshops and keynotes are packed with real life experiences that thousands have related to, and her sense of humor makes sessions fun and interesting. Her diverse experience provides a platform that is realistic and resonates with her audiences. Lori co-founded Creativity For Rent, a boutique marketing and design firm, and has executed marketing strategies for a myriad of products throughout the country. Lori resides in the Denver area with her husband Tom and their sons, 16-year-old Jack, 9-year-old Sam and two Australian Shepherds. Please call 303.517.2006 to reserve a speaking engagement, or email lori@lorisnider.com to discuss your marketing needs.
Lori’s blog, www.rentplicity.com, is widely followed and features commentary on marketing, trends, sales and service. Visit her online at www.lorisnider.com.
Charles Stroud has been active in the multi-family industry since 1986. He gained experience in all site level roles. In 1990, Charles accepted a Vice President position and was responsible for operations in a multi-family real estate portfolio covering Texas, Florida, Virginia, Maryland, Georgia and Oklahoma. While working in property management Charles gained valuable knowledge of both the Owner Management and Fee Management perspective. In 1995, Charles joined Renters Index/RealPage, Inc. as a National Account Executive responsible for sales of DOS, Windows and Internet based property management/screening solutions. In October 2001 he joined RESIDENT CHECK/Allied Companies as Vice President, Sales and was tasked with marketing and sales of RESIDENT CHECK. Charles accepted a position with NWP Services Corporation in October of 2007. NWP Services Corporation provides resident utility billing solutions, electronic rent payment solutions, waste reduction services, and utility auditing solutions. Charles is currently serving as the NAA’s National Suppliers Council Liaison to the Legislative Committee. Charles has recently been accepted into NAA’s Lyceum Candidate Program. Charles has received the CPO (Certified Professional of Occupancy) designation and is currently working on his CAS (Certified Apartment Supplier) designation. He is active in many of the Texas-based apartment associations and in other associations around the country.
Pamela Sullens is committed to the Multifamily industry for more than 30 years. She began her career in the Midwest and worked for national companies prior to starting her own company. Building awesome teams and innovative ideas are her specialty. Ms. Sullens has experience in apartments, condos, and retail management. She is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a degree in education, University of Phoenix with a Master of Arts in Organizational Management, Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation awarded by IREM and her company holds the distinction of Accredited Management Organization (AMO) awarded by IREM. She is active in related organizations as the National Apartment Association, Arizona Multifamily Association, Scottsdale Board of Realtors, Institute of Real Estate Management and is currently serving as Treasurer/Secretary for the Phoenix Chapter 47 Executive Council of IREM. She is the Designated Broker for Sullens & Euchner, Inspired Management Services located in Scottsdale, AZ.
Michele Tate is an award winning business manager and sales leader! Her passion and energy propel her teams and clients to excellence in the realms of revenue, service and sales with focus in the one area that drives it all, Sales Velocity. Since 1986, Michele has established a solid reputation for achieving bottom line results through qualitative analysis, strategic planning, creative coaching, solid execution and inspirational leadership. Most of her successes are directly attributed to her natural propensity to communicate intuitively, build trust, motivate teams and demand excellence. She has proudly served prominent national real estate firms within the residential and commercial sectors in various regional-level and national capacities. Those capacities include but are not limited to: sales leadership and management, performance coaching, asset management, marketing analyst and corporate educational development. Additional leadership activities and passions include performing with the West Chester Harp Ensemble, Girl Scout Troop Leader for three Philadelphia-based troops and spending time with her daughter.
Mary Thayer started working during the summer in an apartment rental office in 1977, when her father and some partners bought a 231 unit apartment community in Western Mass. She continued working there during summers and vacations while in college. By the time she graduated in 1981, her father and his partners had purchased several more properties and she started working full time, creating a management company. Mary now owns the management company, managing just for her family’s properties in Western Mass. She continues to learn more about this great industry each day. Mary will be celebrating her 29th wedding anniversary this year, and she has two sons, both in college. Mary loves to garden and do crafts, and enjoys living in an 18th century home. She is on several boards and committees, both volunteer and professional. She was awarded the 2010 Volunteer award by her town, for co-chairing its 35th anniversary celebration in 2009.
Michelle Thom is a Regional Supervisor with Sullens & Euchner and joined the multifamily housing industry upon graduation from Arizona State University in 2001. She received her Bachelor’s of Marketing degree from the Barrett Honors College. She began her career in property management implementing new marketing programs for Camden Property Trust. She has since worked all over the valley in conventional apartment housing, section 42 housing and condo investment rentals. Ms. Thom is a member of the Arizona Multihousing Association, a CPM Candidate with the Institute of Real Estate Management, and holds an Arizona Real Estate License. Contact her via www.sullensandeuchner.com.
Lori Trainer began working in this industry nearly 20 years ago starting a leasing agent at a property in Orlando. She has been with Concord Management for 18 years serving in various roles ranging from Community Director to Regional Manager over all new construction Lease Ups and is now the Vice President of Customer and Public Relations for Concord which operates in 11 different states. Currently serving as an FAA and NAA delegate as well as Immediate Past President for the Apartment Association of Greater Orlando, Lori has been involved with the Executive Committee, Board of Directors and, most notoriously, the Charity Committee at AAGO. Lori’s name is synonymous with fundraising. Organizing events such as Poker Tournaments, Jeans Days and Walk-A-Thons she has raised money for groups like Apartment Political Action Committee and Community Coordinated Care for Children (4-C). Over the past two years totaling almost $200,000! These efforts earned her the Volunteer of the Year Award for Florida Apartment Association in 2002 and 2008. When Lori isn’t handling media calls or raising money, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys, watching football, playing softball or sitting on the couch watching Sports Center.
Terri Trainer has served the Multifamily Housing Industry for over 16 years. Her career has taken her across the country, providing the opportunity to work with some of the nation’s leading management firms in the areas of marketing, training and performance improvement. Now based in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, Terri operates Trainer Performance Partners, which provides learner-centered, performance-based education solutions. With a belief that education is a process, not an event, Terri strives to incorporate real-life application opportunities into all aspects of the educational process. She specializes in sales, customer service and Voyager training, and is also sought after to make presentations on dining etiquette, business protocol/communication etiquette, leadership development and personal motivation. Regardless of the topic, Terri’s ability to blend quality content and authenticity with her theatrical presentation style makes her sessions both informative and inspirational. To bring Terri’s unique education style to your organization, please visit www.TerriTrainer.com.
As a Territory Manager for Rent.com, Lisa Tufano works directly with property owners/managers located in CA, NV, MA, and HI, to identify and support their business goals through advertising programs. Lisa has over 6 years of experience in the multifamily industry and will be facilitating at Brainstorming for the 3rd consecutive year. She proudly took first place in the “Oceans of Ideas” costume contest at Brainstorming in 2008. After spending her most formative years in the humid and kudzu-covered terrain of north Atlanta, Lisa Tufano now resides in Los Angeles, CA, where the Rent.com headquarters are based. She enjoys competing in triathlons and exploring southern California in a quest to find the best red velvet cupcake ever baked.
Wendy Rae Walker is a dynamic speaker and published author with over 20 years of experience in the Multi-family Industry. She has worked for some great companies including Trammell Crow/Gables Residential, SCG/Archstone Communities, and Greystar. Wendy began her career as a part-time leasing consultant in 1986. After a short time Wendy bypassed the assistant manager position and was promoted to Property Manager. She was then promoted to Senior Property Manager and then Regional Manager before finally landing in the Director of Training role. After a wonderful career Wendy left to partner with Kendall Pretzer in 2000 to form the Strategic Solution, a training and property support company. After 7 years, Wendy went out on her own to concentrate her time on speaking and training with Wendy Rae Walker Associates.
Susan Wilson Stroud joined Ellipse Communications in 2005 as a Business Development Manager and was recently promoted to Vice President of Sales and a Principal of the company. During Susan’s tenure, she has worn many hats within the organization which has honed her into an expert in helping match client technology needs with value based solutions. Susan brings with her fifteen plus years in sales, client relations, account management and executive level operations experience. She attended Arkansas State University and she is active in many National, State and Local industry associations. In her spare time, Susan likes to ride motorcycles, spend time with family, friends and her Australian Shepherd, Cali. She also loves to travel, especially to tropical beach locations.
Pattie Woods is Vice President of Training and Development for Fogelman Management Group. She has been with Fogelman for 10 years, and served as Regional Vice President for the Mid-south Region prior to becoming VP of Training. Pattie is responsible for training and development for a portfolio that includes over 18,000 units located 14 States. Her extensive knowledge of property management prepared her for her current responsibility of implementing and monitoring training programs designed for all site level employees. Pattie also monitors Fogelman’s Associate Shopping programs, Leasing Mentor programs, Resident Satisfaction program, and the Online Learning Center, in which all site employees participate. Pattie has been in the property management business since 1982 when she began her career as a site manager and has been responsible for the supervision of multiple site portfolios since 1990. She benefits from a variety of experience including new construction lease-up, historic renovation, major rehab, subsidized living, and tax credit administration. Pattie has been active in a number of local, state, and national apartment associations and served as President for the Tennessee Apartment Association. She was also founding President of The Apartment Association of Greater Memphis, and is currently on the Membership committee with NAA. She holds CAM and CAPS designations and is presently pursuing her CPM designation through the Institute of Real Estate Management. Pattie completed her Advanced Instructor Training through NAA and is on the NAAEI Faculty.
