2025 OFFICERS INSTALLATION DINNER SCHEDULED FOR JANUARY 23
The Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association invites you to join us for the 2025 Officers Installation Dinner hosted at the Kenwood Country Club, 6501 Kenwood Road in Cincinnati, Ohio, on Thursday, January 23, beginning at 5:30 pm. This networking event and dinner honors the leadership of the past, present and future and culminates with the installation of our officers for the upcoming year. Being installed as president this year is Melissa Joy with Village Green Management. Also being installed are the Board of Directors, Associate Council, Ohio Apartment Association Trustees and the Apartment Association Outreach Board.
Thanks to our event sponsors for making this a memorable evening (at time of print): Apartments.com, BRG Apartments, Calloway Cleaning & Restoration, Denizen Properties, DMG Management, Fath Properties, First Onsite, Forcht Bank,
Hays + Sons Complete Restoration, HILLS Properties, Pinnacle Paving & Sealing, PPG Paints, Rent, Rite Rug, Royal Finish, Sherwin Williams, Towne Properties, Uptown Rental Properties and Village Green Management
Thank you also to all our beverage sponsors: Impruv Painting and Contracting, LiquidLiner.com, National Credit Systems, and Nature is My Office Pest Control. Sponsorships are still available. Call the office at 513 407-8612.
Guest speaker is Russ Webb, Executive Director of the Bay Area Apartment Association in Tampa Bay, Florida. Mr. Webb will install our leadership on January 23 at the Kenwood Country Club beginning at 5:30 pm. Cost per person is $65* or reserve a full table for 10 for $650. Event Sponsorships are $750 and include a full table for 10. Beverage Sponsorships are $250. *Register and pay directly online for the discounted price of $55 per person! Click here to register today!
GCNKAA MEMBERS WIN BIG CASH AT HOLIDAY CHEERS FUNDRAISER
Congratulations to the three grand prize winners of the Heads or Tails Raffle at the 2024 GCNKAA Annual Holiday Cheers Party and Benefit on Thursday, December 5 at the Savannah Center in West Chester, Ohio (pictured left: Carla Kelly, Jordan Morris, Zippy The Elf, Chris Hardy). Thank you to the A-Strategy Management, Ackermann Group, ALL Laundry Service, ePremium Insurance Agency, and HD Supply for sponsoring the Heads or Tails Raffle this year.
Thank you also to our Mystery Bag Sponsors including AmRent, Barrett & Stokely, Bernecker Brothers Roofing, and Sundance Property Management; to our Deck The Walls Sponsors including RediCarpet, Rent Manager, Rookwood Properties, SNS Management, and Village Green Management; and to our Event Sponsor Pinnacle Paving & Sealing.
Thank you also to First Green Commercial Landscaping and Jordann Morgan, Corey Petersen and their team with Fath Properties for supplying and setting up the decorations; and to Tony Krebs with Chadwell Supply for assisting with the holiday music and audio system.
Thank you also to all the volunteers and attendees who made this event a huge success. All net proceeds - our largest to date! - directly benefit the Apartment Association Outreach. See inside for photos.
WELCOME TO 2025!
The Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association (GCNKAA) is finalizing the last few events for 2025 and we are excited about the return of many highly-anticipated events as well as a sprinkling of new events. Be sure to save the date for the following events scheduled for early next year and check www.gcnkaa.org/events for more details shortly.
• Installation Dinner - Thursday, January 23 at Kenwood Country Club starting at 5:30 pm
• Annual State of the Industry Meeting - Tuesday, February 18 at Oasis Conference Center at 5:30 pm
• Annual Trade Show and Education Conference - Tuesday, March 11 at Sharonville Convention Center
• NEW!! Bus Tour - April 24 - Watch for more details!
• Finance Forum - Friday, May 1 at Kenwood Country Club from 8:30 am to 10:30 am
• Business Exchange - Tuesday, May 13 at Oasis Conference Center from 8:30 am to 11:30 am.
• Summer Golf Outing - Thursday, June 19 at Aston Oaks Golf Course starting at 10 am.
• BB Riverboat Cruise - Friday, July 18 at BB Riverboats launching at 2 pm.
2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
MELISSA JOY
Village Green Mgmt President mjoy@villagegreen.com
**Apartment Association of N. KY merged with GCNKAA
Office Hours: Monday Through Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
ADVERTISING RATES 2025
ADVERTISING DEADLINES
Ad deadlines are the first of the month for the next month’s issue. Placement of articles and ads is limited to pre-set space and dimensions of the Apartment Advantage. Submissions may or may not be used and placement is at the discretion of the editor
Apartment Advantage is a monthly publication of the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association, Kenwood Executive Center, 7265 Kenwood Rd, Ste. 100, Cincinnati, OH 45236; phone (513) 407-8612; fax (513) 407-7868. For up-to-date information check out our website: www.gcnkaa.org.
Across the Board
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
By Melissa Joy, President
Melissa Joy Village Green Mgmt.
New Years Greetings, friends.
It is with a heavy heart that I pen this first letter of 2025. As you have undoubtedly heard, our dear friend and colleague, Mr. Pat Crowley passed away unexpectedly on Saturday December 28. We share in the shock and grief of everyone who knew and respected Pat and want to acknowledge the tremendous loss for his family, friends, and the community he served. Pat has been instrumental in leading legislative affairs and public relations for the GCNKAA for the past few years and has a deeply rooted relationship with many of the staff and fellow members of the association. This loss has been a sobering and tragic reminder of how fragile life is and the remarkable value of every interaction we have with one another.
I had the privilege of sitting with Pat at a dinner in Washington DC during my first Advocate experience a couple of years ago. I also had the honor of interviewing him for one of our Weekly Member Spotlights. Pat took great care to truly converse and get to know ev-
This section contains articles and information concerning the Board of Directors and Association policies.
ence. I confided in him that politics was not my favorite thing. I let him know that I was eager to learn, though a little skeptical because I didn’t know where I fit in, I didn’t fully understand everything and felt intimidated. That was all it took. Pat took me under his wing the next day and made sure I was comfortable in every meeting we had, answered questions without judgment when I didn’t understand something, and made me feel included in an environment that was genuinely intimidating.
Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to interact with Pat at GCNKAA events and meetings through our normal course of duties. He led with authenticity, kindness, humor, and a true sense of building community. I know I speak for everyone who had the privilege to serve alongside Pat through the GCNKAA when I say he left a lasting impact on our association and will be greatly missed.
There is much to look forward to in 2025, and while this start to the year is one that leaves us grief-stricken, I implore you to look to the future of the GCNKAA. Q1 will give our association many opportunities to come together, serve, learn, network, and further the mission of our association. Later this month we will host the 2025 Installation Dinner for the Board of Directors, Officers, and Associate Council. February will bring the Annual State of the Industry event
Brain Power
Low, Predictable cost &
High ROI At .50 cents a unit, the average GCNKAA member’s savings pay for the pass after 5 people attend a single session!
Our House
This heading contains membership, staff, committee information and events.
NEW YEAR...NEW YOU! GET INVOLVED WITH THE GCNKAA AND JOIN A COMMITTEE
Fresh faces often bring fresh energy and fresh ideas. Please review the list of committees below and reach out to the GCNKAA if you find a committee on which you would like to serve.
BUS TOUR TASK FORCE
Open to: Primary and Associate Members.
Initiative: Promote communities, gauge interest, launch, and develop the structure for the GCNKAA Bus Tour
Staff Liaison: Michele Klusman
BUSINESS EXCHANGE COMMITTEE
Open to: Primary and Associate Members.
Initiative: Planning details of event, tracking budget, and securing participants for annual business exchange.
Staff Liaison: Michele Klusman
DE&I COMMITTEE (DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION)
Open to: All under-represented individuals within our industry including those supporting the DE&I mission statement. Initiative: Coordinates activities related to increasing the overall diversity of GCNKAA’s membership, and to ensure GCNKAA is an inclusive organization with programming to meet the needs of our diverse stakeholder community.
Staff Liaison: James Combs
EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Open to: Primary and Associate Members.
Initiative: Sets the direction of the association education calendar including NAA designations, ad hoc education, and working with the trade show committee.
Staff Liaison: James Combs
FALL GOLF OUTING COMMITTEE
Open to: Associate and Primary Members.
Initiative: Involves setting and securing sponsors, creating promotional pieces, overall general input regarding the golf outing. Proceeds to fund Industry Defense Fund.
Staff Liaison: Michele Klusman
HOLIDAY CHEERS BENEFIT COMMITTEE
Open to: Associate and Primary Members.
Initiative: Involves securing sponsorships and item donations, event coordination, creating promotional opportunities and overall set up. Net proceeds directly benefit the Apartment Association Outreach program.
Staff Liaison: Michele Klusman
LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE – OH AND KY
Open to: Primary and Associate Members.
Initiative: Work with the state associations and the local city council to keep abreast of issues related to our industry.
Staff Liaison: Rebecca McLean
IRO (INDEPENDENT RENTAL OWNERS)
Open to: Independent Rental Owners (An individual or individuals that are active in both the ownership and management of their properties)
Initiative: Plans the IRO meetings and topics to be discussed.
Staff Liaison: James Combs
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
Open to: Associate and Primary Members.
Initiative: Responsible for membership retention & recruitment, membership drive, mentor to new members.
Staff Liaisons: Nicole Metz & Rick Holste
NEXTGEN COMMITTEE
Open to: Primary and Associate Members.
Initiative: Planning of topics to be discussed with District, Regional, and Property Managers for future leaders in the multi-family housing industry.
Staff Liaison: James Combs
SOCIAL MEDIA COMMITTEE
Open to: Primary and Associate Members.
Initiative: Creates and promotes industry, association and events across all social media platforms.
Staff Liaisons: Michele Klusman & James Combs
SUMMER GOLF OUTING COMMITTEE
Open to: Primary and Associate Members.
Initiative: Involves securing sponsors, creating promotional pieces, overall general input regarding the golf outing.
Staff Liaison: Michele Klusman
NAA MAINTENANCE LEGENDS: ENTER YOUR TECHS TODAY FOR JANUARY CONTEST PRIZES
The National Apartment Association (NAA) Maintenance Legends returns for the 2024-2025 season. This program will continue to shine a spotlight on the maintenance heroics we’ve all seen and heard about. It will give the rental housing industry the chance to celebrate the Maintenance Professionals going above and beyond every month.
WIN BIG EVERY MONTH
Three monthly winners will receive prizes up to $5,000 retail value. Submit your maintenance story for a chance to win.
PAID TRIP TO NAA APARTMENTALIZE 2025
Monthly winners will get airfare, lodging, and access to 2025’s Apartmentalize Conference in Las Vegas in June.
FREE TRAINING CERTIFICATIONS
In June 2025, 25 additional winners will be selected for a free certification including the Certificate for Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT), Certified Pool Operator (CPO), EPA 608 Certification, and more.
A SHOT AT OUR GRAND PRIZE
Monthly winners will have a chance to win big during the 2025 Apartmentalize Conference. The overall grand prize is a new Ford truck.
HOW DO YOU BECOME A LEGEND?
Are you, or do you know, a maintenance tech or property manager that goes above and beyond for their tenants? Time to turn those stories into Legends! Each month, in addition to the story with the most fan votes, our panel of judges will pick two favorites, for a total of 3 winners. Candidates can submit their story from January 1 through January 20 at www.maintenancelegends. com.
HOW, WHEN AND WHERE CAN WE VOTE?
Voting will be open to the general membership beginning January 23 and will close January 31. It is one vote per person.
Learn more at www.maintenancelegends.com.
become a Legend? know, a maintenance tech or property manager that goes above and beyond for their tenants? Time to turn those stories month, in addition to the story with the most fan votes, our panel of judges will pick two favorites, for a total of 3 winners. August 2023.
How To Become a Maintenance Legend
Hard work, dedication and 3 easy steps can make you a Maintenance Legend!
Provide Your Info
Fill out our form with your name, address, affiliate association & more.
Tell Your Story
Tell us all about you or your Legend's actions and why they deserve to win.
Submit Your Photo(s)
January 2025 Prizes
Dreaming of your
Next Getaway?
The three monthly winners will each receive a Delta gift card – perfect for flights, hotels, and unforgettable adventures.
Start planning your trip today!
Every maintenance pro deserves to be recognized. Enter at www.maintenancelegends.com
Three monthly winners will receive prizes up to $5,000 retail value. Submit your maintenance story for a chance to win.
Jason Eglian 4395 Boron Drive Latonia, KY 41015 (859) 835-4802
jason.eglian@pauldavis.com Fire and Water Damage Restoration
TRADE SHOW BOOTH SALES NOW ON SALE
Don’t miss your chance to reserve space for the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association (GCNKAA) 2025 Trade Show scheduled for Tuesday, March 11 at Sharonville Convention Center. Booth cost is $800 from October 2 through February 11, 2025. After February 11, the price increases to $900 per booth.
REASONS TO EXHIBIT AT GCNKAA TRADE SHOW
Besides the opportunity to meet and greet 600 to 800 industry peers during our trade show, here are additional reasons you won’t want to miss out!
1. New Floorplan Includes Carpet. Minor changes have been made again to the floorplan to encourage better foot traffic as well as accommodate more booths. This year the booths remain 8’ x 10’. All booths include pipe and drape, one table, two chairs, booth sign and wi-fi. Premier booths are an additional fee. Other booths are reserved for VIP Sponsors. Electric and additional tables and chairs can be ordered separately through Sharonville Convention Center or Academy Rentals.
• Booths are sold on a first come first serve basis.
• Each booth is 8’ deep x 10’wide.
3. Expanded Education Rooms. By creating more education seminars that accommodate more students, we can guarantee a larger attendance of property managers, leasing agents and maintenance technicians when the trade show opens. At the end of these seminars, seminar attendees will flow onto the trade show floor where you have the opportunity to talk with each and every one.
4. More Sponsorship Opportunities. By creating new sponsorship levels, we enable you to get more bang for your sponsorship buck. Whether through signage, verbal recognition or company listing on gcnkaa.org and in the Apartment Advantage, we will find a way for you to get involved whether you have one employee or one thousand. We have also added several more benefits to the VIP Sponsorship including premier booth space. Watch for more information to follow regarding sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorships range from $300 for a logo or food sponsorship to $1000 for VIP Sponsorship.
Booths are available on a first come first serve basis. If you would like to reserve a booth, visit www.gcnkaa.org and download the floorplan and booth contract. Review the available booth space, select your booth and either reserve your booth online or complete your contract with your top three selections, and return back to michele@gcnkaa.org.
If you have any questions, we are here to help! Give us a call at 513-407-8612.
BOOTH SALES INFORMATION
• Booth price includes table, 2 chairs, pipe and drapes, booth marker. Facility is carpeted. Electric, additional tables and chairs can be ordered separately through Sharonville Convention Center and Academy Rentals for an additional cost. All orders for carpet, electric, additional tables and chairs need to be placed directly through Sharonville Convention Center or Academy Rentals and NOT through GCNKAA. See Exhibitor Kit for more detailed information.
• Booths are $750 each through October 1; $800 from October 2 through February 11; $900 after February 11. Select booths are reserved for VIP Sponsors.
BOOTH RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENTS
• After you have selected your booth with the Apartment Association, you must either forward GCNKAA a signed contract or remit full payment to reserve that booth.
• We will hold all booths for 14 days without signed contract or payment.
• You may pay for your booth with check or credit card or call the office for an invoice.
• We cannot hold a booth longer than 14 days without contract or payment. After those 14 days, if we do not receive a contract or full payment, GCNKAA will contact you for payment or contract. If no response, GCNKAA may release the booth you selected.
• Full payment of all booths must be received by February 11, 2025.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Apartment Association.
DOWNLOAD FULL EXHIBITOR KIT COMPLETE WITH FORMS AND GUIDELINES HERE
2025 GCNKAA Trade Show
Sharonville Convention Center
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 | 4 pm - 6:30 pm
Booth Information
Size: 8’ x 10’
Loading Dock Area and Sharonville Convention Center Concession Stand
7. Greenway Waste & Recycling
8. Pella Windows & Doors
24. ServPro of Boone, Kenton & Campbell Cos.
25. Lance Roo ng
26. McSwain Carpets
27. Rumpke Waste & Recycling
28. National Credit Systems
29. Jetz Service Company
30. 1-Tom-Plumber
31. Loveland Excavating & Paving
32. G&G Fitness
33. Qwikkit 34. Hamilton County ReSource
Yardi
Spectrum Community Solutions
Scherzinger Pest Control
Cost Per Booth
$750 Before October 1;
$800 Before February 11
$900 After February 11
VIP Sponsor Only
Booth Includes Pipe and Drape
1 - 6’ Table and Skirt
2 - Chairs
1 - Booth Marker
Wifi Access
You May Order Additional Items Directly Through Our Contacts at Your Cost
Carpet - $125*
Electric - $79*
Additional 6’ Table - $50*
Additional Chair - $6*
See inside for ordering information.
*Deadlines to order do apply. Prices after deadline will increase as noted on individual order forms. Prices subject to change
2025 NAA APARTMENTALIZE IN LAS VEGAS: REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
Whether you’re in management, leasing, marketing or maintenance, if you love working in rental housing, you belong at Apartmentalize. Apartmentalize provides countless chances to converse with the best in the industry through interactive activities, the NAA Exposition and structured networking events.
6 REASONS YOU SHOULD ATTEND APARTMENTALIZE
Innovative learning formats and open spaces that foster knowledge exchanges allow you to align your own education to your personal learning level, need and interests. As you design your own education experience with your professional objectives in mind, you will be able to challenge yourself to explore and find fun in your learning.
General Sessions
Hear from three accomplished general session speakers who will inspire, motivate and entertain you with stories from outside of the industry. Speakers announced so far include podcaster and author Jay Shetty and Olympic Champion Simone Biles.
Jay Shetty, a global bestselling author, award-winning podcast host of On Purpose, and purpose-driven entrepreneur, has made an indelible impact on hearts and minds worldwide. With an astounding following of over 50 million across social media platforms, Jay possesses a talent for making purpose and ancient wisdom not only relatable but also practical and easily accessible. His journey of transformation and inspiration has touched the lives of millions across the globe.
Simone Biles is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time. The most decorated gymnast in history with 41 medals across World Championships and the Olympic Games, Biles holds the most World Championship medals (30) and gold medals (23) in gymnastics history. A three-time Olympian, her 11 Olympic medals and seven Olympic gold medals are the most by a U.S. gymnast. The three-time Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year and Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year, she has earned the rare distinction of having five skills named in her honor – The
Biles – in the beam, floor (two), and vault (two) disciplines.
Educational Seminars
Choose from over 90 sessions throughout the conference spanning a multitude of topics including Maintenance, Operations, Leasing, Affordable Housing, Marketing, Leadership and Industry Trends. With over 250 industry experts, you’ll find a solution for every day of the week! These sessions feature industry experts and provide useful information that attendees can apply to daily work life. The full listing of Education Sessions will be available soon!
Open Space Stations
This peer-to-peer learning experience is an opportunity to engage in creative conversations with fellow attendees who are passionate about the same issues and topics as you. Expert facilitators support small group discussions that explore a dedicated topic for each group, which you determine together.
Express Education
These sessions take place in a dedicated space in the NAA Exposition and are quick 30-minute interactive sessions that include quick digestible content, easily applied takeaways, Q&A and storytelling. The full listing of Education Sessions will be available soon.
Fishbowl Sessions
Fishbowl Sessions are meant to be more intimate, allowing for more active participation from all attendees, breaking down the separation between ‘panelist’ and ‘audience. A chair is left open on the panel to allow for attendees to step into the conversation.
NAA Exposition
The NAA Exposition brings together the rental industry’s top management professionals and suppliers eager to network, share ideas and the latest products and services.
Apartmentalize is scheduled for June 11-13, 2025, in Las Vegas. Details and schedule will be released soon. In the meantime, registration is now open here. Full conference includes access to everything including General Sessions, Education Sessions, NAA Exposition, Welcome Reception, Lunch on Thursday and Friday, Networking Events including Thursday Night Party , NAA Excellence Awards. Early Bird rate of $955 per person is in effect through February 28, 2025. After that, price increases to $1080 per person.
Jay Shetty Author / Podcaster
Simone Biles Athlete/Advocate
NAA EXCELLENCE AWARDS NOW OPEN FOR ENTRIES
Your road to excellence is paved with hard work, dedication to one’s community and leadership skills. That’s why we recognize your actions with the National Apartment Association’s Excellence Awards (the Excels). With categories from all walks of the rental housing industry, NAA celebrates affiliated apartment associations, communities, companies, individual achievements and other initiatives that promote apartment careers.
All 2025 NAA Excellence Awards winners and nominees will get their moment in the spotlight at the industry’s largest education and networking event of the year, Apartmentalize in Las Vegas, June 11-13, 2025.
The NAA Excellence Awards applications are due: Friday, February 14 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
COMMUNITY AWARDS
The Community of the Year Awards represent the very best communities in the rental housing industry. These awards recognize excellence in the following categories: Small (less than 150 units), Large (150+ units), Affordable, Military, Student, New Construction and Major Rehab . Service is a very important component of these awards; service to the resident and service to the community. Financial performance will also be considered. The winning communities must be a member of NAA in good standing to be eligible for an Excellence award.
Applicants will be charged $225 per entry for the Community Award categories. Please note, three finalists will be chosen in each award category, and the winner will be announced during the 2025 Excellence Awards ceremony.
Affordable Community of the Year
The Affordable Community of the Year Award recognizes an affordable apartment community that excels in service both to the resident and community. Financial performance will also be considered. Communities entered in this category set the standard and increase resident expectations of other affordable communities.
Large Community (>150 Units) of the Year
The Large Community of the Year Award recognizes an apartment community with over 150 units that excels in service both to the resident and community. Financial performance will also be considered. Communities must be a member of NAA to be eligible for this award.
Major Rehab Community of the Year
The Major Rehab Community of the Year Award recognizes a recently renovated apartment community (completed after January 1, 2023) that excels in service both to the resident and community.
Military Community of the Year
The Military Community of the Year Award recognizes a military apartment community that excels in service both to the resident and community. Financial performance will also be considered. Communities entered in this category set the standard and
increase resident expectations of other military communities.
New Construction Community of the Year
The New Construction Community of the Year Award recognizes a new apartment community (opening after January 1, 2023) that excels in service both to the resident and community.
Small Community (<150 Units) of the Year
The Small Community of the Year Award recognizes an apartment community with less than 150 units that excels in service both to the resident and community.
Student Community of the Year
The Student Community of the Year Award recognizes a student apartment community that excels in service both to the resident and community. Financial performance will also be considered. Communities entered in this category set the standard and increase resident expectations of other student communities.
Please click here to see full category description, application field requirements, what the judges are looking for, and application fees.
COMPANY AWARDS
The Company Awards recognize and celebrate organizations for their significant contributions to their staff, local community and the rental housing industry as a whole.
#NAAGives Award
The #NAAGives Award recognizes a management company member that is dedicated to making a difference through Corporate Service Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Through charitable giving, volunteer programs and company community service policies, this organization has shown outstanding commitment to their local community and the social wellbeing of others.
Leading Organization in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The National Apartment Association (NAA) is committed to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the rental housing industry. The Leading Organization in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award recognizes companies that share NAA’s commitment. The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award honors NAA member companies that are champions in advancing diversity, equity and inclusiveness within their organization. This award seeks to raise awareness around the initiatives, policies and practices of organizations that embrace diversity, equity and inclusion across the rental housing industry. Applications may cover one, some, or all aspects of diversity including but not limited to: age, ability, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, race, and religion. The winning organization must be a member of NAA in good standing and will need to describe how their organization has committed to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion efforts and expanded opportunities for employees within their organization. Applicants will also need to demonstrate what the organization did
to engage leadership to commit to this effort.
Supplier Company of the Year
NAA’s Supplier Company of the Year Award recognizes a supplier member that not only exemplifies excellence in their field but also demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to the rental housing industry. The winning supplier company must be a member of NAA in good standing.
Please click here to see full category description, application field requirements, what the judges are looking for, and application fees.
INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
The National Apartment Association and the National Apartment Association Education Institute’s Individual Achievement Awards recognize individuals who have made noteworthy achievements within their professional career. Individual Achievement Awards are offered in seven (7) award categories, and only NAA members are eligible to apply.
There is no limit to the number of individuals that can be nominated. Self-nominations are allowed. If nominating more than one individual, separate nomination forms are required. Recipients, nominees, and nominators are encouraged to attend the Excellence Awards ceremony at Apartmentalize on June 19, 2025.
Applicants will be charged $50 per entry for the Individual Award categories. Please note, three finalists will be chosen in each award category, and the winner will be announced during the 2025 NAA Excellence Awards ceremony.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Champion
NAA’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Champion Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a strong commitment and made outstanding contributions to the advancement of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within their company, community and/or the rental housing industry. All DEI Champion award nominees must be NAA members in good standing to apply, and are open to owner/manager members, supplier members and affiliate staff.
Emerging Leader of the Year
The NAA Emerging Leader Award strives to recognize a professional with fewer than 10 years of service who has made noteworthy contributions to his or her organization and the apartment industry at large. All NAA Emerging Leader Award nominees must be NAA members in good standing to apply, and are open to owner/manager members, supplier members and affiliate staff.
Emerging Leader of the Year
The NAA Emerging Leader Award strives to recognize a professional with fewer than 10 years of service who has made noteworthy contributions to his or her organization and the apartment industry at large. All NAA Emerging Leader Award nominees must be NAA members in good standing to apply, and are open to owner/manager members, supplier members and affiliate staff.
Independent
Rental Owner of the Year
This Independent Rental Owner of the Year Award represents NAA’s commitment to the independent rental owner and their importance to the rental housing industry. The recipient is a single
individual who is the owner. Company or team submissions will not be accepted. Past winners are NOT eligible for consideration again for 5 years.
National Supplier Council Achievement
This National Supplier Council (NSC) Achievement Award is an individual award based on professional achievement and personal contributions to the apartment industry. Many individuals in the supplier community have made significant “above and beyond” contributions to the apartment industry. Please consider recognizing individuals by submitting them as a candidate for this prestigious award. This National Supplier Council (NSC) Achievement Award is an individual award based on professional achievement and personal contributions to the apartment industry. Many individuals in the supplier community have made significant “above and beyond” contributions to the apartment industry. Please consider recognizing individuals by submitting them as a candidate for this prestigious award.
Supplier Sales Professional of the Year
The Supplier Sales Professional of the Year Award recognizes a sales professional who best exemplifies the characteristics of professionalism, service and expertise. Nominee must be an NAA member in good standing. Please note, past winners are not eligible for consideration again for 5 years.
Apartment Career and Education (ACE) Industry Educator of the Year
The National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI) ACE Awards recognize outstanding achievement in the field of apartment career development and/or contributions made to, or on behalf of, NAAEI and its professional education interests and initiatives. The ACE Industry Educator Award celebrates educators who have expanded the scope of career development and education initiatives beyond their responsibilities as a professional educator. Education is part of the job description of the professional educator. The candidate must be nominated by a member of NAA (any member who will be involved in the judging process of this award is excluded from nominating a candidate).
Apartment Career and Education (ACE) Industry Practitioner of the Year
The National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI) ACE Awards recognize outstanding achievement in the field of apartment career development and/or contributions made to, or on behalf of, NAAEI and its professional education interests and initiatives. The ACE Industry Practitioner Award celebrates volunteer leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the career development and education initiatives of NAAEI and the apartment industry. The volunteer leader’s job does not primarily deal with education, and education endeavors are beyond the scope of his or her job description. The candidate must be nominated by a member of NAA (any member who will be involved in the judging process of this award is excluded from nominating a candidate).
Please click here to see full category description, application field requirements, what the judges are looking for, and application fees.
GCNKAA STAFF AND MEMBERS MOURN LOSS OF TEAM MEMBER
It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Pat Crowley, our Vice President of Governmental Affairs, passed away suddenly at his home on Saturday, December 28, 2024.
Pat Crowley was a man of many talents, skills, and achievements, but he always knew that the biggest accomplishment of his rich life was his family, which he loved dearly with every inch of his magnanimous heart.
The award-winning journalist and well-known public relations professional and lobbyist died unexpectedly at his home in Fort Thomas on Saturday, December 28. He was 63. He is survived by his loving family: wife, Pam; son, Conor; daughter, Shayna, and her husband, Max Neverman; and Pat and Pam’s three grandchildren, twin grandsons, Bennett and Bodhi, and granddaughter, Sloane. He is also survived by his two sisters, Cathy Crowley and Mary “Peach” Milburn, her husband Bill, and their sons, his nephews, James and Nick Milburn.
If you live in Northern Kentucky, you would see Pat everywhere: having breakfast at Sis’s in Newport with community leaders and friends, working the halls of the Kentucky General Assembly in Frankfort, emceeing luncheons and dinners held by business associations or civic groups, writing press releases at his desk or speaking to reporters on the telephone at his office in Newport, playing golf and socializing at his weekly golf league at Twin Oaks Golf Course in Latonia, or having cocktails and dinner with clients, political leaders, or friends at a local restaurant.
His workdays were notoriously long, often rising before dawn and working late into the night, but he wouldn’t have it any other way. He absolutely loved the careers and the life he’d chosen, once telling Pam, “I know people think I work too hard, but I just love what I do so much.”
He also deeply loved his family, and his weekends were devoted to them. Saturdays were often spent with Pam and their cadre of rescue animals, such Pat’s beloved “Wuzzle,” their three-legged Chihuahua, or “Mike Jones,” the adventurous cat that served as the protagonist of some of Pat’s most hilarious stories.
But in recent years, his absolutely favorite day of the week was Sunday, when he would spend blissful time with his three precocious grandchildren, often documenting these outings on his “thewuzzle79” Instagram account, his only social-media channel. In these images with his grandchildren, Pat was always beaming.
Pat also had yet another, larger family -- not just the extended Crowley family with whom he owned Crowley’s Highland House Café in Mount Adams, but also everyone in the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati community who came to know and love Pat Crowley.
During his lifetime, Pat was a youth sports coach at Woodfill Elementary School and other Fort Thomas youth sports teams; a volunteer for various charitable groups, including the annual
Christmas Celebration and Dinner for homeless and less fortunate at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center; a regular speaker at business, political, and other events; a golfing buddy; a journalist and public-affairs professional; and, of course, an amazing friend to many, many people. Every person who met Pat were blessed to be the beneficiary of his kindness, insight, humor, intelligence, thoughtfulness, and friendship.
Pat worked for 27 years as a newspaper, magazine, television, and Internet journalist, including 16 years as business writer, political writer, and columnist for The Cincinnati Enquirer. He also worked for The Cincinnati Post, The Cincinnati Business Record, The Maysville Ledger-Independent, the Register Newspapers of Southeastern Indiana, and
The Recorder Newspapers of Northern Kentucky. His freelance journalism work appeared in Newsweek, Family Circle, American Bar Association Journal, and National Real Estate Investor, to name a few.
Pat spent much of his time at the Enquirer working at the newspaper’s Northern Kentucky and Frankfort bureaus. In 2007, The Kentucky Press Association named him the state’s top columnist and his 2004 series on casino gambling earned state and national awards.
The Washington Post selected him as one of the country’s top political reporters and political bloggers. This week, Sen. Mitch McConnell called Pat “one of Kentucky’s finest political journalists,” commenting that “over a long and distinguished career, Pat’s work in the Commonwealth drew wide attention and well-earned national acclaim.”
In 2009, he and Jay Fossett founded Strategic Advisers, LLC, a Northern Kentucky public relations, marketing, and public affairs firm. Pat parlayed his connections in the news media and relationships in Frankfort and Washington into a successful 15-year career in PR and public affairs. He was the driving force behind the company, where his son and daughter now work. Much of the work he did there was making our community a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
In 2023, the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce presented Pat with The Walter L. Pieschel (MVP) Award in recognition of his outstanding service to the Chamber and the Northern Kentucky community.
There’s an old Irish saying that is apt when thinking of Pat and his beautiful life: “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory no one can steal.” Everyone loved Pat Crowley and he reciprocated that love in the way he lived his life.
Memorials are suggested to SAAP Box 72040 Newport, Kentucky or Cleo’s Legacy 5699 Mary Ingles Highway Melbourne, Kentucky 41059 (linktr.ee/cleoslegacy). Online condolences may be made to dme funeral.com.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! FROM
ACKERMANN GROUP
BUILDING. COMMUNITY. TOGETHER.
We believe the holiday season is a time to give back to our communities. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our associates and valued charity partners for helping bring this commitment to life.
YOUR SINGLE-SOURCE MRO SUPPLIER
HD Supply is committed to getting you what you need, where and when you need it. We offer:
• Free, next-day delivery*
• More than 100,000 products
• HD Supply Solutions™ App for ordering anywhere
• Custom-made products, including doors, cabinets, window coverings, and more
• Professional certification and training
• Property improvement and renovation services
· Countertop, Cabinet and Bathtub resurfacing
· Cabinet Door Replacement with Resurfacing of frames and boxes
· Increase Rent/Occupancy
· NEW look - Fresh Colors
REGISTRATIONS FOR NAA ADVOCATE CONFERENCE OPEN
As the new Congress settles into Capitol Hill, the time has come to introduce members to the rental housing industry. Advocate – NAA’s annual advocacy conference – is the prime opportunity to meet with your representatives by joining rental housing suppliers, property managers, owners and operators in Washington D.C. on March 25-26, 2025. NAA Governance meetings continue from March 27-28, 2025.
It is more important than ever to communicate the rental housing industry’s policy stances and priorities to our representatives in Congress following years of pandemic-fueled challenges and political polarization. Sharing the unique operational needs of rental housing is critical, and there is no better way to educate federal lawmakers than in-person in the halls of Congress.
Advocate is the opportunity to make that a reality by coming together with a family of over 92,000 members and 141 affiliates. Help us lay a new cornerstone on which we can build even more successes for the rental housing industry.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Pre-registration for Advocate is complimentary for all attendees who register on or before March 18, 2025. After this date, registration must be done on-site and will be subject to a $50 charge.
Please Note: Congressional offices may restrict the number of people allowed to participate in meetings on Capitol Hill during Lobby Day. Registering for Advocate does not guarantee that you will be able to participate in a meeting. Please make sure you are working with your local affiliate if you are planning to attend a meeting.
HOTEL INFORMATION
Grand Hyatt Washington 1000 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001
BOOK YOUR STAY
Click here to reserve your room or call 202-582-1234. The NAA Advocate group block code is G-APT0.
Hotel reservations may be canceled up to 4 weeks prior to the date of arrival without penalty. Rooms canceled within 4 weeks of arrival will be charged one night’s room and tax.
Rooms in the NAA room block are intended for registered attendees of 2025 Advocate. You must be registered prior to making your hotel reservation. Only one (1) hotel reservation will be allowed per registered attendee. NAA has the authority to cancel any duplicate hotel reservations or those that are not registered for the conference with or without prior notification.
The Apartment Association Outreach, Inc.
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
By Justin Seger, HILLS Properties, Outreach President
Happy New Year! Welcome to 2025. We are excited to share The Apartment Association Outreach (AAO) contributed more than $240,000 back into our community to help thousands of our neighbors in need.
We are also aware that the needs have not diminished, and that the Apartment Association Outreach will continue to rise to the challenge and provide vital financial support to our community partners. We appreciate the incredible generosity of our Champions For Outreach Sponsors, members and donors. Our balance sheet is strong, and we look forward to continuing to help those in need.
Our sincere thanks to Lloyd Cobble with CIG Communities and Gerry Johnson with BRG Apartments - our Holiday Cheers Committee co-chairs - as well as their dedicated committee for a fun, festive evening with the proceeds earmarked for the AAO programs. Special
thanks to Michele Klusman with the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association (GCNKAA) for the hundreds of hours she put in to make sure our event was a success! We are already looking forward to next year!
5K 4 Rent: Please reserve Saturday, April 26, 2025, for our 5K 4 Rent. It is a fun family event along the scenic river downtown in Friendship Park! The Chick-Fil-A breakfast sandwiches and Dunkin Donuts are crowd pleasers!
AAO Board: I would like to thank the Board for their efforts during 2024. We are extremely proud of our Board members and their respective company’s commitment to AAO!
We are grateful for the service that all of the Board members provide, as well as their continued support of utilizing our funds to help those in need. A special THANK YOU to Susan Peck for her continued support, time, effort and energy for all things relating to AAO.
I look forward to 2025, and I thank our entire membership in advance for your continued support of Outreach and our efforts to help those in our community who need our assistance.
Justin Seger
Trend Setting
EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT IN SAFETY
Courtesy of Sedgwick
Employee engagement in workplace safety is critical for maintaining a safe and productive environment. When employees actively engage in safety efforts, they’re more likely to follow protocols, identify hazards and contribute to a culture prioritizing well-being. Employee engagement will differ from company to company depending upon factors such as culture, leadership, employees and the current safety program. Regardless of the type of safety program you have, involving employees in it will show the company’s dedication to safety in the workplace. An effective way to protect employees is to involve them in your company’s safety program. There are a number of ways to do this, so it is important you find out what works best for yours. Here are some strategies to encourage engagement:
This heading contains information on Management & Leasing.
employees remind each other about safety practices and help correct unsafe behaviors. Focus on the point that safety is everyone’s responsibility and not one department or person. No single employee should be policing safe work practice, but it should be a responsibility of everyone. Reinforce to staff that reporting unsafe conditions and behaviors is key to prevention and keeping an overall safe workplace. When safety is part of the team’s shared responsibility, compliance improves naturally.
• Involve Employees in Safety Planning: Active participation in the company’s safety planning meetings and risk assessments will allow workers to voice their concerns, concerns of others and suggest improvements. Many employees have first-hand knowledge of tasks and job functions and can highlight potential risks, hazards and offer better solutions others may overlook.
• Empower Employees to Speak Up: There are many ways to encourage employees to report hazards, near-misses and unsafe behaviors. The key is to encourage reporting without fear of reprimand. Suggestion boxes, computer reporting software, safety meetings and toolbox talks can all be used to address safety concerns and make employees feel comfortable contributing to safety.
• Provide Ongoing Safety Training and Development: Develop a training program that offers guidance and knowledge to employees. Training is required in many situations for compliance but it should be more than that. The main focus of training is to encourage employees to work safely to eliminate injuries. Remind them that nobody wants to get hurt at work and safety training is key to preventing injuries. Regular, interactive training keeps safety top-of-mind and helps employees retain knowledge. Customize the topics for different departments or areas.
• Set Clear, Achievable Safety Goals: Goals can be a great way to encourage employees to get involved in safety. Recognize individual and team efforts to meet these goals, which can help keep everyone motivated. However, avoid setting goals that focus on injury reduction as this might discourage employees from reporting. Acknowledge employees who consistently follow safety practices and contribute to safety initiatives. Rewards can range from public recognition to tangible incentives.
• Encourage Positive Peer Influence: Create a culture where
• Leadership by Example: Probably one of the most important parts to a safe workplace is leading by example. When leaders consistently demonstrate commitment to safety, it sends a strong message. Regardless of who enters the work area, ensure employees wear required PPE and follow safety guidelines such as staying within marked walking areas. Engaged leadership shows that safety is a priority and not just an obligation. Employees who regularly do not enter the work area and are seen not following safety rules shows to employees that safety is not a priority.
• Regularly Communicate Safety Information: Keep safety visible with bulletin boards, digital displays, posters or company newsletters. Regular reminders reinforce the importance of safety in the workplace. The safety message should be changed periodically (weekly or monthly). Use these communication channels to reinforce safety guidelines, such as PPE usage, Safety Data Sheet information or review of safe work practices.
• Evaluate and Act on Feedback: Regularly request feedback on safety processes and be proactive in implementing suggested changes. When employees see their feedback leads to improvements, they’re more likely to stay engaged. Regardless of how small a safety suggestion may seem, always get back to the employee with a response. Ignoring requests can demonstrate a non-caring attitude toward safety.
Encouraging employee engagement into your company’s safety program is a great way to demonstrate how important safety is in the workplace. When developing a strategy that is specific to your culture, be creative, think outside the box and include employee suggestions. Once you’ve come up with a strategy that fits your organization, communicate it with employees. Share the philosophy that safety is the number one priority. Remember, in a workplace where employees feel valued, supported and empowered to contribute to safety, they’ll be more likely to stay actively engaged in creating a safe environment.
If you need help identifying potential hazards in your workplace, please contact Andy Sawan, risk services specialist at Sedgwick at andrew.sawan@sedgwick.com or 330.819.4728.
Platinum Sponsor ($20,000)
Gold Sponsor ($10,000)
Silver Sponsor ($5,000) THE McLEAN FAMILY
To become a Champion For Outreach, please contact Rebecca McLean, Justin Seger, Susan Peck. Rebecca@gcnkaa.org - justins@hillsinc.com - susan@gcnkaa.org
