2023 Annual Awards Nominees

Candice Bladt Community Manager of the Year Nominees

Steven Hodges, CMCA: Being the onsite manager of a large 55+ active adult community with a full-service bar, restaurant and 18-hole golf course is a challenging but rewarding experience. For me, it’s all about the people—the board and committee members, vendors, staff and, most importantly, the residents. My goal is to provide them with the best possible environment to enjoy their well-earned retirement. I’m passionate about what I do, going above and beyond to ensure the community runs smoothly. This includes making myself available outside of regular business hours to attend meetings and address any issues that arise, such as monitoring snow removal and providing regular updates in the overnight hours to keep residents safe and informed. Communication is key to managing a successful community. Throughout my eight year tenure, I’ve developed an open, inclusive environment where residents are comfortable approaching me and my staff with any situation (good or bad).

My journey into property management was indirect but interesting. After graduating with a Political Science degree, I was working in government when I became intrigued with real estate. My career in this industry began with managing all aspects of an individual’s real estate portfolio. I found new properties, coordinated renovations and repairs, leased units and handled tenant relations. It was a 24/7 lifestyle. After getting married and having children, I decided to focus on one aspect of the business. Something where my political background could be an asset—property management. Being a property manager requires a similar skill set to working with your local government. In essence you are the business administrator, the board is your council and the residents are your constituents. I’m proud to share some of my key accomplishments: • Portfolio manager responsible for three properties totaling ~900 units, each with unique challenges: an aging apartment complex (built in 80’s), a new community beginning transition and the third a mixture of low-income apartments and single family homes • My company never lost a site contract while under my management • After three years of successful portfolio management, promoted to current role as onsite manager at Westlake Golf and Country Club—one of NJ’s larger 55+ communities with 1,400+ homes, including a bar, restaurant and 18-hole golf course • Oversee a $6 million budget, State-issued Club Liquor License, Bingo license, DEP Water Allocation Permit (for golf course) plus management of 20 association and three company employees • Worked with my Board and staff to update the community’s aging infrastructure (20+ years). Successfully coordinated road repaving, clubhouse roof replacement, golf bunker renovation, golf course irrigation system replacement as well as full renovation of locker rooms and restaurant, including bar relocation. • Stellar leadership and guidance during the pandemic. Researched/implemented technology which allowed video conferencing for the Board’s executive and open meetings—providing access for all households. Helped institute safety protocols and procedures which allowed usage of outdoor amenities (initially) and eventually indoor amenities in full compliance with State mandates. I’m honored to be recognized by my board for these achievements and look forward to future successes.

Diana Janos, CMCA, AMS: I was very shocked but pleased to hear I was nominated for the Candice Bladt Community Manager of the Year. I joined this industry back in 2010 when I was hired as an Association Administrative Assistant. I was very happy when Taylor Management Company informed me, they had the perfect Community for me. That was quite an understatement! I took the helm of Carlton Tower Condo Association in September 2013 and could not be happier. The best compliment I can receive from my residents is that since I have been the manager here it has indeed become a community. I manage all the daily requirements of property management, writing those violation letters, accounts payable and receivable, budgets, monthly financial reports and, as we all are, 24/7 therapist. While I may not