2024 Awards Nominees

Sponsored by

NOMINEE INFORMATION

Candice Bladt Community Manager of the Year Nominees

Donna Galindo, CMCA: Donna started as a part time receptionist/closing coordinator 14 years ago. She never would have thought that beginning as a part timer with small children would have grown into a management position with one of the largest active adult communities in Monroe Township and the state. She has continued to grow in her career going from part-time coordinator to full-time in the Accounting Dept, Operations and then Assistant Manager and now Community Manager. It has been a long road and she has been continuously educating herself through CAI and legal seminars to be able to manage the community and staff with the utmost professionalism. She has had the honor of receiving her CMCA and AMS designations along with a Jules Frankel Manager Educational Award. She has consistently been supported by the Community’s Board and Taylor Management Company every step of the way. She is well known and thought of within her community of over 3,000 people and assists anyone with an issue with the utmost care and consideration.

Being in the industry for such a long time Donna has maintained vendor relationships, negotiated contracts as well as has assisted the attorneys with contracts and collections. She has found that the position of community manager is multifaceted and includes: English, Math, Science, History and most of all Psychology. There are so many different types of people in her community and they all have their own thoughts and ideas. Donna respects everyone’s opinions and ideas and grows from being open to new challenges. Donna heard a quote many years ago that she has tried to live by and has often communicated to her community, “Every negative thought is a down payment on failure. Every positive thought is an investment in the future.” There is no room in her career or her life for negativity and it flows into all aspects of her managing style. She maintains good relationships with her residents and staff and has an open door and open ear should they need anything. Life outside the office is equally as fulfilling and Donna loves spending time with family and friends. She has a 24 year old daughter and 19 year old son and not to forget the husband of 26 years. She enjoys dining out with friends, going to shows and vacationing. The absolute joy of her life beside her husband and kids is her 5 year old maltipoo that is always there to greet her when she comes home from a long day. If asked if she would do it all again the same way Donna’s answer would be a definite yes. Community Management has become the road for success to her. She has enjoyed it for many years and will continue to do so as long as she can.

Katherine Henriques: I am honored to be considered for the Candice Bladt Community Manager of the Year award! Katherine is my birth name, but many call me “Kat.” I have been a portfolio manager for over 10 years. My role as a Portfolio Manager varies from making sure that all communities under my care are operating smoothly. Making sure the appearance and the financial health of the community are maintained. There are a ton of qualities that are essential for a successful property manager. We “Property Managers’ must be able to communicate effectively, be organized and detail-oriented, have strong customer service skills, and stay calm under pressure. One of the things that is an important skill is having the ability to maintain positive relationships with the residents of a community. A property manager must be familiar with the relevant laws and regulations. We carry a load of responsibilities, and as a manager, I try to maintain a healthy, safe atmosphere for all of my residents. Having a good relationship with my Boards is essential to me, and to the overall operations of the community, we are all working and serving. They tell me

what they are looking to accomplish, and I make sure that it gets done. When I am assigned a property, there is so much to learn, such as how many floors there are in the community building and the structure of the building, and before I know it, it is like second nature. You realize so many little things that it becomes natural to pick up on even the smallest things that never stood out. One thing I have learned is that it all comes down to communication, taking the time to know who lives in the building, and making myself available to a homeowner or resident. When difficult situations arise, it is important to work together with the Board of Directors but also allow and bring in the community residents so that they are part of that decision. This is what makes a community. Despite how overwhelming many

Candice Bladt Community Manager of the Year Nominees

find the role of being a portfolio manager, I consistently look for ways to help others within my company and throughout the industry. My willingness and commitment have brought me to where I am today. I strive to provide good service and be consistent with everything I do. To be nominated for an award that has so much meaning behind it is an honor within itself. Just to know that this award honored Candice Bladt who was the youngest community manager in the nation to ever earn the PCAM. I have been recognized for my work ethic and dedication to being a Community/Property Manager in Continental Who’s Who, Prestigious Marquis Who’s Who.

Melissa Lloyd, CMCA, AMS: Melissa Lloyd began her property management career in 2005 as a part time rental agent working during the summer months where she lived in Pennsylvania. Although Melissa graduated college with an elementary education degree with a minor in special education and psychology, she really enjoyed working at the rental site where she lived - not to mention the free apartment that came with it! It was the birth of her nephew 12 years ago that took her career back to her home state of New Jersey. Melissa looked for employment in the community association field and quickly found herself managing two rental sites with over 1,000 units. After three years working with rentals, she took on a different role as a manager for a large 600+ unit co-op community. This is very different from managing rentals, but Melissa is always up for a challenge. She worked there for over five years until she was offered a job in June of 2022 and decided to take a leap of faith.

As she progressed during her journey in this new field, she used her patience and love for education to guide her on this career path. Melissa became involved in CAI-NJ over 5 years ago and surrounded herself with managers, vendors and people that would foster her love of learning and self-growth. Knowing that this field is based on experience and education, Melissa decided to take her career to the next level earning both her CMCA and AMS in one year. She will be applying for her PCAM case study in 2024. Melissa is also part of the CAI NJ Membership Committee which allows her to give back and encourage others to join CAI. Currently Melissa is employed by Talor Management Company, AAMC, AMO at an active adult community where she manages the Master Association overseeing their clubhouse and amenities. She works very hands-on with her board and values the importance of this relationship. Melissa appreciates the opportunities that Taylor has offered to her and looks forward to growing with them in the future.

12/13/22, 4:33 PM

Resized_20221208_143134.jpeg

Mariaellen Varelis: I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this esteemed award, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to my colleagues and mentors whose unwavering support has been instrumental in my journey. Without their encouragement, I wouldn’t be in the position I am today. Embarking on my career in the community association industry as an administrator and now thriving as a community manager, I’ve come to appreciate the ever-evolving nature of our role. Adaptability is a key attribute, and I find immense satisfaction in guiding homeowners through the intricacies of community living. Always having their best interest and ensuring that our communication not only informs but also underscores our commitment to safeguarding and enhancing their home investments—the most significant purchases they’ll likely make. In addition to my hands-on experience as a manager, I’ve discovered the immeasurable value of

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/WhctKKXpPWbSzlZhVxzBGzxfSddGKRMkMBZnPTdKRlGtztbtTkHmFgknntKqLPlcfXvRvwl?projector=1&mes… 1/1

Candice Bladt Community Manager of the Year Nominees

education and networking within CAI. These resources serve as invaluable tools in navigating the dynamic landscape of our role as community managers. Beyond my professional endeavors, I derive immense joy from contributing to RCP’s charity committee, Hands of Hope, and collaborating with individuals with special needs at the Arc of Ocean County. In 2019, I had the honor of receiving the Cabot Celebrity Award from Cabot Cheese Company for my involvement in community service initiatives like Paddle for Pink with the Hands of Hope and the Step up for the Arc Walkathon. I also cherish moments spent with Fiona and Freddy, the furry companions who became part of my family during the pandemic. In conclusion, I firmly believe that the most successful managers are equipped not only with knowledge and strength but also with empathy. To quote Plato, “The highest point of knowledge is empathy, for it requires us to suspend our egos and live in another’s world.” I am passionate about bringing this philosophy to my managerial approach, fostering understanding and connection in every aspect of my professional and personal life.

Terry Wagner, ARM: Terry Wagner has been a successful Community Manager for over two decades. She has experience in managing all aspects of community living, from grounds to facilities to community events and community diplomacy. If there was a platinum medal for community management, many would say that Terry has indeed earned it. For Terry, being a community manager is much more than just a job. She is deeply honored when communities put their trust in her to maintain and care for their homes and neighborhoods, their largest investments. She does not take that trust lightly and does her utmost to provide excellent service to each resident. At the center of every community are its residents, and an important part of Terry’s success has been her skill at dealing with people and also, creating many opportunities to bring people in the

community together. Among her many achievements are volunteer-appreciation events, designed to honor and recognize those members who donate their time and resources to help their community. Terry has also arranged many activities to promote the health, well-being and safety of her communities. Among these are vaccination clinics, CPR and life-saving classes conducted by local emergency services teams and safety seminars conducted by local police and fire departments. Terry also donates time to her own home community by volunteering as a Director of Emergency Management for her township with a certification from FEMA in Small Community Emergency Preparedness. Terry’s emergency training was well-utilized on the job in one of her communities when she was faced with a catastrophic flood in the clubhouse. She was able to mitigate damages by staying well after midnight, securing remediation and then meeting with township inspectors at 6 am next day. This all happened while Terry herself was undergoing a personal catastrophe; her husband was in an ICU on life support at the time. Clearly, Terry Wagner exhibits the utmost level of dedication and concern for her communities and their residents. A month ago, Terry again was faced with a personal hardship, a medical emergency, but quickly recouped and was back at her desk handling community matters in less than a week. Terry recognizes that as a group, managers are the backbone of the property management industry; they affect people’s lives daily by their actions. Terry’s goal, and the motto she posts in her office, is to “Be the reason someone smiles today.”

BE SURE TO REGISTER TO ATTEND THE EVENT! You won’t want to miss it! Click here... https://cainj.org/awards/

Outstanding Young Professional of the Year Nominees

Michael Luzzi, CPIA, EBP: After joining CAI in 2018, Mike Luzzi developed a renewed focus and purpose within the community association industry. Through CAI-NJ, much of his professional growth can be attributed to the education and resources provided, as well as the significant relationships he has developed. Mike’s participation over the last 5+ years has evolved from being an attendee/observer to being a guest lecturer as an industry subject matter expert to obtaining the Educated Business Partner distinction and becoming Chair of the CAI-NJ Business Partner Committee for 2024. With this foundation, with much passion and enthusiasm, Mike looks forward to the continued growth in his professional career through CAI so that he may better serve community associations and their boards, as well as support his peers. Mike believes high level service, transparency and education are the three focus points of the working relationship that are most important. Mike attended Caldwell University where he was a member of the men’s basketball team. He

graduated in 2009 with a business degree. That same year, he obtained his property & casualty insurance state license and began his insurance career with Prudential Financial. In 2011 he moved to a NJ local independent insurance broker providing insurance advice and coverage for personal lines and small businesses. Mike has been with the Acrisure’s NJ Community Association team since 2018. That year he obtained his CPIA - Certified Professional Insurance Agent designation from the American Insurance Marketing and Sales Society. Currently Mike is responsible for Acrisure’s growth in the New Jersey/Pennsylvania Community Association Division. Mike has been a guest lecturer and educator for several CAI chapters such as CAI-NJ, CAI-NY, CAI-PA and CAI-SC, as well as for The Cooperator and other private companies. Over the last couple of years, Mike attended both the CAI National Law Seminar and the CAI Annual Conference to further expand his industry knowledge and education. Mike is currently serving on the Poconos Committee for CAI PA and Chair for the CAI NJ Business Partners Committee for 2024. His goal is to obtain his CIRMS designation within the next 12 months.

Michelle Price, CMCA, AMS: As a young girl in South Jersey, Michelle Price would gaze up at the night sky. Despite wanting to be an astronaut, things went astray. While she hasn’t left the gravity of Earth just yet, Michelle is grateful to work in an industry where she is surrounded by shining stars: property management peers who bring dreams to life. Michelle has worked in property management for 16 years. She started as a part-time Receptionist while in college, working for a local Homeowners’ Association (HOA). Upon graduation from Stockton University, she accepted a position as Assistant Manager for the same HOA; in this role, she was employed by the management company, which grew her corporate experience. Within a few years, she was promoted to the role of Manager for one of the largest active adult communities in Ocean County. In 2016, Michelle was recognized as Taylor Management’s Impact Player of the Year. Additionally, she was tasked with navigating the challenges of the

COVID-19 pandemic, handling a total lockdown of a 23,000 square foot clubhouse and remote work of her 7-person staff. After welcoming her sons, Michelle decided to pursue a new role that would allow her to achieve her professional dreams while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid work environment. Michelle proudly accepted a position as Portfolio Manager with Corner Property Management, Inc., AAMC. Michelle loves helping others, and she finds immense satisfaction collaborating with colleagues, boards, and residents. She always tackles issues with a smile, working to understand each situation and craft impactful solutions. At Corner Property Management, Inc., AAMC Michelle is surrounded by a like-minded team that shares her passion. She has a great supervisor who believes in her, as well as supportive and caring colleagues.

Outstanding Young Professional of the Year Nominees

In 2023, Michelle earned both her CMCA and AMS designations while managing 4-5 properties and raising her sons. In her spare time, she enjoys trying new recipes, traveling, and spending quality time with her husband and loved ones. She has volunteered for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) for the last 30 years, raising more than $150,000. In the next five years, Michelle hopes to earn her PCAM designation.

Jose Romero, EBP: Jose began his career at Clearview Washing, LLC in 2020 as the company’s first Business Development Manager. His main objective was to grow the company’s name and reputation within the commercial real estate world and CAI Industry. After 2023, he can proudly say that so far it has been, and continues to be, a success. Each year Jose has exceeded expectations and reached new heights within his organization! Through his great networking skills and friendly personality, Jose has become a very recognizable face in CAI-NJ. Although Clearview Washing offers mainly exterior cleaning services, Jose makes an effort to connect property managers with other members of CAI when they need a service that is out of his range. He does this to provide his clients with as much value as possible. Apart from representing his company at CAI-NJ, Jose is also part of the F.A.S.T Committee! This committee is responsible for most of the Charitable Events that CAI-NJ hosts throughout

the year. Jose tries to make himself fully available for the events and is always looking for a way to help make these events a success! With only 3 years in the industry, Jose looks forward to continuously developing and becoming a leader within the industry!

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE AWARD NOMINEES!

Denise M. Becker Woman of the Year Nominees

Nikki Gist: Nikki Gist is the founder and CEO of Hello Green Marketing. Although Nikki’s educational background is in marketing, she, like a lot of us, fell into a career she did not go to school for. Nikki spent over a decade as a Project Manager in the Green and Construction industry working for Good Mowin’ Lawn & Landscape where she learned every aspect of the industry from administrative duties all the way to Senior Operations Manager and everything in between. While Nikki enjoyed her time at Good Mowin, she always knew that marketing was her first love and she returned to her roots 3 years ago. Nikki realized that there were very few marketing agencies that specialized in this industry. She also knew that she had the winning combination of education and experience that would help her stand out from the rest. Nikki decided to bet on herself and thus Hello Green Marketing was born. Throughout her career in the construction industry Nikki spent and continues to spend a

considerable amount of time championing for women in the industry through her work with the Professional Women in Construction and the Community Associate Institute of New Jersey organization. Nikki has been a member of PWCNJ for 3 years and CAINJ for 7 years and serves on the Membership Committee for both organizations ensuring that all existing, new, and prospective members understand the value and benefits of these organizations. She also takes the time to get to know not only her fellow committee members but she routinely reaches out to all members in an effort to get to know them better and to see how she can help enhance their experience with CAI-NJ. Nikki always recommends joining CAI-NJ to business partners that she comes in contact with and is a champion for the robust educational program that CAI-NJ offers as she understands the relationship between an educated board and vendor are one of the crucial elements to the mission of CAI-NJ. Nikki is passionate about helping others and understands that her success is directly tied to helping others succeed in achieving their goals. Over the years Nikki has mentored countless industry professionals and has played an integral role in making long-term connections with her fellow peers. She is an advocate for women in the workplace and works tirelessly to give a voice to women in the industry that may not have one. However, just like anyone else, it’s not all business for Nikki. She is also a sports podcaster, content creator and member of the New York Giants media. Nikki can be found on Monday nights co-hosting “Thunder and Lighting” and on Wednesday nights co-hosting “The Blonde Blitz” where she interviews athletes from all sports, talks fantasy football, sports betting and everything NFL. Nikki has been in the podcasting industry for over 3 years and has extensive experience in brand building through her work in sports media.

Kimberlee Roberson, CMCA: Kimberlee A. Roberson, CMCA is the Director of Training and Development for Taylor Management Company, AAMC, AMO and 20-year member of CAI who believes in providing the highest level of leadership and customer service to her fellow employees, as well as her clients, in all aspects of daily operations. Kimberlee began her journey in the property management industry in 1997, as an Executive Assistant for a luxury apartment rental company. With her passion for the property management industry, she was promoted to a Leasing Consultant within one year and quickly became Assistant Community Manager and then Community Manager. In 2004, Kimberlee transitioned to a career in community association management as an onsite Community Manager. She was

promoted to a Portfolio Manager, managing up to seven communities within a short period of time. To broaden her industry knowledge, she obtained her CMCA designation in 2014 and was sought after in 2015, to manage a large-scale Active Adult Community in Manalapan, New Jersey.

Denise M. Becker Woman of the Year Nominees

Over the past few years, Kimberlee shifted her role in the industry and has been providing training and support to new and existing employees, as well as continuing education. She attends many educational programs each year to further her education in the industry and to pass along what she has learned to others. Kimberlee is an advocate for promoting from within and is always willing to assist employees achieve their career goals. Having no prior experience with a new software program that was being introduced to her company, Kimberlee was tasked to work with the software company to quickly learn the software and then train the employees in her company and implement the new program. She works best under pressure and has unwavering patience, which was proven over the last year as she successfully led her company through this transition. Kimberlee has received many awards and achievements throughout the years, including her most recent award received in 2021, Candace Bladt Community Manager of the Year. When Kimberlee is not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and family, working in their garden, cooking, baking and enjoying outdoor activities.

Holly Teufel, CMCA, AMS: Hello CAI-NJ! I am honored to be nominated for this award and hold this very close to my heart and soul. I have worked in property management for 17 years, beginning in commercial and residential rental management. Working for a private real estate investor allowed me to gain a wealth of knowledge, as the company was employed by three others, requiring me to wear many hats, allowing me to obtain extensive accounting knowledge and experience. I managed 20+ properties, with over 10,000 tenants and oversaw 15 superintendents. From there, I entered the HOA world and never looked back, in fact I have only proceeded forward into this world. I have held multiple positions within a management company, while managing a full portfolio. I have a proven history of repairing broken relationships with communities, and taking on contracts that have one foot out the door. I have been successful in saving those contracts, as well as bringing previous clients of my own, to the company I work for now. I have been a member of CAI since 2017 and am a regular at all of the events since. I served on the Women’s Leadership Committee in 2020 and have been on the Conference & Expo since

2021. I was a very proud nominee for Manager of the Year in 2022. I currently hold the CMCA and AMS designation and am actively pursuing the PCAM, withal of the required M-Courses completed. I am also a published writer in Community Trends magazine and continue to seek new opportunities to write articles. I take advantage of the many opportunities and resources that come with CAI-NJ and never miss a chance to learn something new. I believe I was nominated for Woman of the Year for being hard-working, dedicated, loyal and authentically myself. Being a woman doesn’t necessarily make you a mother, but for me, I am a mother of three and for this nomination, being a mother plays a massive role in my life and person, as a woman. Along with my proven professional history and current ability to manage and operate a large, full-time community, while also managing a growing portfolio and household and the lives of my family. I believe whoever nominated me knows my longevity in this industry, my involvement with CAI-NJ, my visible hunger and excitement for opportunities to learn, and my ability to not only thrive but excel in managing communities that most consider challenging. My desire to obtain my credentials has always been a priority and I’m closer than ever to obtaining the PCAM designation. I believe I was nominated because I’m vocal about my future in this industry, striving to evolve from a manager to a role in leadership. I’m consistent in seeking possible new business connections and have a natural knack for sales, bringing together new relationships for management companies I have worked for. I believe my overall industry knowledge, that I’m teachable, and that I am not timid and embrace pressure, makes me a strong and confident manager and woman.

Community Association Board of the Year Nominees

Four Seasons at Mirage Board of Trustees: It is with great pleasure and confidence that I put forth this nomination, as the Four Seasons Mirage Board of Trustees exemplifies the qualities and dedication that make them truly deserving of this honor for the prestigious Community Association Institute (CAI) Board of the Year Award. The board prioritizes building and fostering a strong community by implementing several initiatives. By organizing regular social events, including Lounge/Game Nights and various entertainment shows providing opportunities for residents to mingle, share stories, and

strengthen friendships. Interest groups such as chorus, ceramics, woodshops, and hiking groups are always encouraged by the Board. These gatherings create smaller, more intimate settings for residents to connect over common interests. Community outreach is also used to extend their sense of community. Initiatives like volunteering, scholarships, supporting local charities, and engaging with neighboring communities. The board also ensures that new residents feel embraced and included from day one by organizing welcome gatherings and providing essential information about the community. Their goal is to create an environment where everyone feels heard, connected, and proud to be a part of their community. Moreover, the board has shown an exceptional leadership and commitment to safety and security, with their unwavering support for their Firewise program. Their proactive efforts in this area have not only protected the community from potential fire hazards, but have inspired other HOA Boards in the area to follow their lead and establish their own Firewise programs. Next, the board’s implementation of a succession plan for its members showcases their forward-thinking leadership. This strategic approach ensures a seamless transition of knowledge and expertise from outgoing to incoming board members, contributing to the continuity and effectiveness of the board’s operations. Furthermore, the board consistently demonstrates exemplary financial responsibility. Notably, in addition to keeping the monthly dues lower than other comparable HOAs, they have never imposed a special assessment on their residents. This is a remarkable achievement. Lastly, the board’s dedication to continuous learning by attending various seminars, webinars, and networking events through CAI. Also, continuously being a part of all the LAC updates reflects a proactive approach to understanding the evolving rules and legislation. I wholeheartedly endorse the Board of Trustees for the CAI Board of the Year Award. I believe that their extraordinary accomplishments and unwavering commitment to the Mirage community make them eminently qualified for this prestigious recognition.

Heritage Point Homeowners Association: The Heritage Point is the most sought after community of its size (909 single-family homes) in the Southern Ocean County area. Their Board, which is made up of 7 members, is very cohesive and works very well together. They are proud to have a very strong volunteer community (over 200) that helps to keep costs down when it’s time to review the annual budget. The volunteers do everything from helping with mailings to sitting at the Activity Reception desk, to doing inspections of the components within the community that need repair. This year was the first time over 12 years that they have had to increase their monthly

maintenance fees and it was only a $10 increase! Never a SPECIAL ASSESSMENT!!! Some of the accomplishments that they boast of in the past few years are: 1. Major design renovations to both clubhouses 2. Had indoor pool and outdoor pool converted to salt-water chlorinator systems, and new furniture was purchased 3. Replaced the dehumidifier at the indoor pool (which was the size of a school bus!) 4. Resurfaced both the indoor pool and outdoor pool, the parking lots and the tennis courts 5. All tennis & pickleball players are happy campers as they now have both courts to play on 6. The board continually bids out all major contracts 7. They have very strong committees that are an integral part of the workings of the Board. Some of the committees that are active: Facilities, Firewise, Finance, Social, Landscaping and Covenants. The board looks forward to additional renovations and upgrades in 2024. They strive to keep the integrity and property values at their most desirable.