OPENING KEYNOTE SPEAKER
MATT ISEMAN, Host of American Ninja Warrior & Comedian
The Warrior Within: Finding Strength Through Challenges
As the host of the three-time Emmy-nominated American Ninja Warrior, Matt Iseman has witnessed countless individuals push past their limits in pursuit of seemingly impossible goals. But beyond the spotlight, Matt has faced his own set of challenges, including significant health battles that have shaped his journey. In this inspiring keynote, Matt shares powerful lessons on resilience, perseverance, and personal transformation. Through humor, heart, and real-life stories, he encourages attendees to embrace challenges, overcome obstacles, and tap into their inner warrior, both in their careers and in life. Whether you’re leading a team, navigating change, or striving for personal growth, this session will leave you motivated to rise above and find the warrior within.
Emmy-winning TV host, comedian, physician, and cancer survivor Matt Iseman is beloved for his energetic style and empowering message on overcoming obstacles. When Matt quit a career in medicine to pursue stand-up comedy, his dad gave him advice that still guides him today: “Life is short, do what makes you happy.” Matt has shared his medical expertise on Hallmark’s Home & Family, won an Emmy for his hosting on Style’s Clean House, has hosted numerous live specials including The Macy’s 4th of July Special for NBC. He can frequently be seen on The Kelly Clarkson Show as the in-house game show host and recently won two Emmys as a host for “Gold Zone” as part of the 2024 Summer Olympics. In addition to his numerous TV appearances, Matt has dedicated his time as a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society after a personal battle with Renal Cell Carcinoma, and as a strong supporter of the Arthritis Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Armed Services Arts Partnership. Matt’s inspirational journey proves the paramount importance of following your dreams and that laughter really is the best medicine.
Marci French | Closing Keynote Speaker
Chief Facilitator | French's Leadership Solutions
Marci French uses her unique story to initiate discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion alongside corporate leadership. Celebrated for fostering courageous conversations, she pioneers safe and open spaces where participants explore their identities, nurture empathy, and embrace innovative concepts. With over 25 years of leadership experience, French, a certified life and leadership coach, channels her expertise to mentor and guide professionals seeking meaningful growth. Her mantra, "grow in the right direction," underscores her commitment to empowering individuals. Her journey in the multifamily industry boasts multiple industry designations and accolades. Serving on the National Apartment Association Board of Directors and as NAAEI senior faculty, she has dedicated tireless hours volunteering on committees across the nation. French is a graduate of the NAA Leadership Lyceum and holds a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace from the University of South Florida.
Sessions:
Property Management Executive Forum | Thursday, November 6 @ 3:15 p.m.
Closing Session: You + EI: Solving For Human Connection | Friday, November 7 @ 2:45 p.m.
Ricardo Alicea, CAPS, CPM
Multifamily Operations Executive
Ricardo Alicea is a Multifamily Operations Executive and the current immediate Past President for FAA. An accomplished professional with more than 25 years of experience, Ricardo is a skilled strategist who transforms strategic plans into workable solutions that benchmark performance against market and key operational goals. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated aptitude for streamlining operations and developing successful acquisition strategies. From managing core, value-add, student housing and affordable assets to his volunteer work at the local, state, and national apartment associations, Ricardo has consistently driven tangible improvements in performance and revenue. Ricardo studied at the University of Central Florida, and holds certifications from the National Apartment Association as well as IREM Central Florida.
Session: Multifamily Moves for 2026: Smarter Acquisitions, Stronger Operations | Friday, November 7 @ 9:45 a.m.
James Bettencourt
Vice President of Integrated Facilities Management | Cortland
COMING SOON!
Session: Keeping Your Best Techs: Retention & Performance Strategies That Work | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.
Dani Black
Chief Revenue Officer | AppWork
Dani Black is the Chief Revenue Officer at AppWork, where she helps multifamily teams rethink how they manage maintenance. Since getting her start in the industry in 2017, Dani has held sales and leadership roles at proptech companies like Zillow and EliseAI, where she developed go-to-market strategies and built strong customer relationships across the multifamily space. At AppWork, Dani focuses on practical, data-driven solutions that make maintenance teams more efficient and residents happier. She brings a vendor’s perspective to the table and believes maintenance deserves a voice in the strategic conversation not just when something breaks. Through her work, she’s helping the industry see maintenance as a huge opportunity for innovation.
Session: Keeping Your Best Techs: Retention & Performance Strategies That Work | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.
Cheryl Carroll
Regional Property Management | Hillpointe LLC
With over 28 years of experience in property management, Cheryl Carroll brings a wealth of industry knowledge and leadership to her role as Regional Property Manager at Hillpointe. She specializes in strategic management solutions, operational efficiency, and team development. Cheryl’s expertise encompasses a diverse portfolio, including conventional and student housing, commercial retail and office space, as well as new construction developments. Cheryl is a past President of the North Central Florida Apartment Association (NCFAA) and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Florida Apartment Association (FAA). She is also a member of the FAA’s 2025 Legislative and Conference Committees. Cheryl holds the Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS) credential from the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI) and is a graduate of the FAA Leadership Lyceum Program. She also maintains an active Florida State Real Estate License.
Session: Marketing, Manager or Maintenance: Who Drives Your Customer Experience? | Friday, November 7 @ 1:15 p.m.
Chiccorra Connor
Founder | Chiccorra.com
Chiccorra Connor, CEO and Founder of Occupancy Heroes Incorporated (OHI), stands at the forefront of the multifamily industry as a visionary leader and two-time recipient of the Mecklenburg Times Most Influential Women award. With nearly three decades of experience, she founded OHI, a renowned company offering nationwide services to assist multifamily real estate owners and their teams. Under her leadership, Maintenance Heroes, a division of OHI, has become a go-to resource for all things maintenance. Her federally recognized apprenticeship program has trained, certified, and employed thousands of people since 2019. She was among 100 entrepreneurs from across the country invited to The White House to advocate for minority entrepreneurship, showcasing her commitment to advancing opportunities for all. Chiccorra owns a diverse U.S. and international real estate portfolio, including affordable housing, single-family and multifamily homes, short and long-term rentals, and communal spaces. With her wealth of experience and innovative insights, she captivates audiences and empowers professionals through engaging talks and transformative training.
Session: Smooth Operator: Mastering Maintenance Communication with Residents | Friday, November 7 @ 8:30 a.m.
Mark Cukro
President | Plus One Consulting, Inc.
Mark is the President of Plus One Consulting, Inc. and founder of Service Team Training and MaintenanceVideos.com. Mark is a national speaker and a leading resource in the field of service team development and training.
His certifications include CAPS, CAMT I, CAMTII, CPO, CPO Instructor with the PHTA, EPA proctor for the NEW 608 certification as well as all HVAC Excellence courses. Mark is also a NAAEI Instructor and worked on the development of the new CAMT program. Prior to starting his own company, he was the Director of Service Team Development for Colonial Properties Trust, Inc, a New York Stock Exchange traded company with 148 properties and over 48,000 apartment homes.
Session: What Backlog? Innovative Solutions for Short Staffed Maintenance Teams | Thursday, November 6 @ 3:15 p.m.
Dana Duckworth
Speaker & Consultant | Speak Up Dana
Dana Duckworth, a nationally recognized public speaker and culture & engagement strategist with over 14 years in multifamily housing, champions inclusivity and belonging. Her podcast, "Hilariously Unemployed," offers support to those facing career transitions. Dana fosters diverse and inclusive workplaces through her speaking and consulting business, Speak Up Dana. As a sought-after speaker, she creates safe spaces for dialogue, inspiring positive change. Committed to driving diversity, equity, and inclusion, Dana leaves a profound impact through her authentic approach on stage and in her podcast, touching the lives of many.
Session: Effective Meetings: It Could Have Been An Email | Friday, November 7 @ 8:30 a.m.
Johnny De La Espriella
Vice President of Operations | Eagle Property Capital
COMING SOON!
Session: Alexa, Hire More Humans: The Risks of Over-Automating Property Management | Friday, November 7 @ 9: 45 a.m.
Michelle Fording
Vice President - Learning & Engagement | Atlantic Pacific Companies
Michelle Fording (formerly Wood) is the Vice President of Learning & Engagement at Atlantic Pacific Companies, bringing over two decades of multifamily experience to her role. Having worked her way up from on-site operations to Regional Manager and ultimately into leadership roles in training and marketing, Michelle blends operational insight with a passion for people development. Prior to her current role, she led marketing efforts for a portfolio of 15,000+ units across 45 properties throughout the Sunbelt region. Michelle is an NAAEI Faculty Member, serves on the Board of Directors for the South East Florida Apartment Association, and actively volunteers with the National Apartment Association’s Residential Property Management (RPM) Committee. In 2018, she was named one of DMN’s 40 Under 40 in Marketing and continues to champion innovation, inclusion, and growth across the industry.
Session: I See You: The Leadership Shift That Retains Top Talent | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.
Janel Ganim
Chief Operating Officer | ResMan
Janel Ganim serves as Interim CEO at ResMan. Janel has over 20 years of progressive experience in multifamily property management software with an emphasis in affordable housing. She has extensive experience with various types of local, state and federal programs including HUD Multifamily, Tax Credits, Rural Housing, HOME, Bond, RAD and Public Housing. During her career, she has been actively involved in multiple industry organizations, including participating in and co-chairing HUD working groups to create TRACS industry specifications and update the Management and Occupancy Review process. Most recently Janel co-authored a proposal for HUD to allow electronic signatures and electronic storage of documents for their multifamily housing properties. Janel currently serves on the Board of Directors for NAHMA and is the former Chair of the Affiliates Committee.
Session: Multifamily Moves for 2026: Smarter Acquisitions, Stronger Operations | Friday, November 7 @ 9:45 a.m.
Chase Harrington
President | Entrata
COMING SOON!
Session: Alexa, Hire More Humans: The Risks of Over-Automating Property Management | Friday, November 7 @ 9:45 a.m.
Virginia Love
Industry Principal | Entrata
Virginia Love launched her multifamily journey 34 years ago as a leasing consultant. Since then, she has climbed the ranks through training, marketing, and operations roles at top firms like Summit, Watermarke, and ING Clarion. After 12 years as VP of Leasing & Marketing at Waterton, she joined Entrata in 2019 as Industry Principal, driving innovation across marketing, product, and sales. A National Apartment Association Lyceum graduate and former Chair of the Atlanta and Georgia Apartment Associations, Virginia is a recognized force, named a Multifamily Influencer (2021 & 2025) and Connect CRE Woman in Real Estate (2022).
Sessions: The New Renter Reality: Trends Reshaping the Multifamily Industry | Thursday, November 6 @ 3:15 p.m.
The Employee Chatter that Matters | Friday, November 7 @ 9:45 a.m.
Joe Mendez
Chief Marketing Officer | Advenir Azora
As Chief Marketing Officer at Advenir Azora, Joe brings over 27 years of multifamily experience across operations and marketing. He leads strategic marketing initiatives for a portfolio of more than 13,000 units, including both traditional multifamily and build-to-rent (BTR) single-family communities throughout the Southeastern United States. Joe leverages cutting-edge AI leasing tools, digital marketing strategies, and performance analytics to drive occupancy and elevate property value. His leadership is rooted in a commitment to team development, data-driven decision-making, and operational excellence.
Session: The Future of Fraud Prevention: Using AI to Detect and Defend | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.
Eric Milton
Owner's Representative and Chief Technology Officer, United Property Management
COMING SOON!
Session: Alexa, Hire More Humans: The Risks of Over-Automating Property Management | Friday, November 7 @ 9:45 a.m.
Jeremy Milton CAM, CAPS
Vice President of Property Management | West Shore
Jeremy Milton, CAM, CAPS, serves as Vice President of Property Management for West Shore. He has over 17 years of property and asset management experience in the multifamily industry. He is responsible for the oversight of property management operations, financial performance, marketing, leasing, and maintenance for West Shore’s national multifamily portfolio. Jeremy works in collaboration with the West Shore team on new acquisitions and manages the performance of West Shore’s portfolio to maintain exceptional operational standards, advance objectives, provide returns to investors, and ensure budgeted financial goals are met and exceeded. Jeremy holds a BS in Business Administration and an MBA from California Coast University and is active in the apartment associations at both the local and national level, previously serving as the President of the Southeast Florida Apartment Association (SEFAA).
Session: Multifamily Moves for 2026: Smarter Acquisitions, Stronger Operations | Friday, November 7 @ 9:45 a.m.
Crystal Miner
Culture Performance Leader | Collier Companies
Crystal Miner is the Culture Performance Leader at The Collier Companies, where she brings over 15 years of experience in customer service, leadership, and driving meaningful change. Known for her contagious energy and people-first approach, Crystal is a culture shifter—on a mission to create workplaces where individuals feel empowered, inspired, and genuinely connected. Her superpower? Turning everyday moments into opportunities for growth, unity, and impact. She’s not just developing processes - she’s developing people, igniting momentum, and helping to shape the future of leadership in the multifamily space. Her everyday goal is to CARE: Create A Radiant Environment, so she shows up with purpose, leads with vision, and tries to leave every room a little brighter.
Session: Marketing, Manager or Maintenance: Who Drives Your Customer Experience? | Friday, November 7 @ 1:15 p.m.
Kate Moriarty
AVP - Multifamily Training | Northland
COMING SOON!
Session: Keeping Your Best Techs: Retention & Performance Strategies That Work | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.
Kyle Nelson
VP of Corporate Strategy | Snappt
A PropTech industry veteran of 15 years, Kyle has a proven track record in cultivating impactful partnerships and acting as a catalyst for growth across both startup companies and some of the world’s largest financial institutions serving the rental housing market. Prior to joining Snappt as Vice President in 2022, he held senior roles at Gartner, Experian, TransUnion, and PayLease (now Zego). Kyle has extensive expertise in corporate strategy, innovation within the AI category and is passionate about exploring emerging technologies throughout the property management sector. As an active member of the early-stage venture capital community, he serves as a venture partner to multiple VC funds and syndicates. Kyle holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois and a Bachelor of Science from the University of North Florida.
Session: The Future of Fraud Prevention: Using AI to Detect and Defend | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.
Pam Pederson
Title, Company
Pam Pederson is a dynamic and creative brand storyteller with a deep-rooted passion for connecting people and ideas. She began her career with the Indianapolis HUD Office almost 40 years ago! With over three decades of experience in Multifamily training, Pam is an accomplished, strategic, and innovative professional who has transformed how businesses communicate their stories. A lifelong learner, Pam founded Enthusiastically Consulting in 2023 to empower businesses to capture their unique narrative with authenticity and impact.
Whether navigating the complexities of housing regulations or exploring AI and soft skills, Pam approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and a problem-solving mindset.
Session: Multifamily Leadership Match-Up: "Tech Savvy" vs. "Old School" | Friday, November 7 @ 1:15 p.m.
Jen Piccotti
President | Swift Bunny
Jen Piccotti strives to show organizations how to reduce employee and customer turnover. As the President of Swift Bunny, she helps leaders connect the dots between data, team performance, and revenue growth. A noted researcher, speaker, and author, Jen enjoys sharing her unique and actionable insights on the latest trends in employee engagement, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. She holds a Master of Science in Quality Assurance from California State University, Dominguez Hills.
Session: I See You: The Leadership Shift That Retains Top Talent | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.
Kara Rice
Founder | Experiment Learning & Talent Development
Kara Rice brings 30+ years of multifamily experience, from leasing to leadership, with a focus on employee development and engagement. She collaborates with rental housing industry leaders to enhance team satisfaction, performance, and retention. A lifelong learner, Kara is a NAAEI Faculty member, licensed Florida real estate associate, rental property owner, and lease guarantor for her two college kids. Kara lives in Southeast Florida with her family of five, spending her extra time and money on books and Broadway.
Session: Multifamily Leadership Match-Up: "Tech Savvy" vs. "Old School" | Friday, November 7 @ 1:15 p.m.
Lia Nichole Smith
SVP of Education and Research | ApartmentRatings & SatisFacts
Lia Nichole Smith is a trend-spotting thought leader, with advanced theoretical and practical knowledge of solving challenges for student, conventional, affordable, military, and senior communities. Recognized by GlobeStreet as an influencer in multifamily, Smith is an expert in predictive analytics and a highly sought-after international speaker due to her ability to bring together market research, renter trends, and effective storytelling. She is a published author, industry leader, and all around data nerd.
Sessions: The Employee Chatter that Matters | Friday, November 7 @ 9:45 a.m.
Marketing, Manager or Maintenance: Who Drives Your Customer Experience? | Friday, November 7 @ 1:15 p.m.
Joseph Springsteen
CEO | Mallard Systems
COMING SOON!
Session: Storm-Proof Your Strategy: Smart Strategies for Operators | Thursday, November 6 @ 3:15 p.m.
Desiree Starr
Director of Learning and Development | West Shore
Desiree Starr is a multifamily educator, speaker, serving as the Director of Learning and Development for West Shore. She has developed educational programs and seminars that are timely, relevant, and informative. Desiree has over 25 years of multifamily experience and has a passion and innate gift for training and developing others. Desiree has presented across the country at national multifamily events, and her impact has been felt by many learners who enjoy her enthusiasm & humor. She is an NAAEI Facilitator and remains heavily involved with the evolution of NAA designations and curriculum.
Session: Multifamily Majority Rules | Friday, November 7 @ 1:15 p.m.
Fannie Thomas
Senior Director of Business Applications and Information Technology | RangeWater Real Estate
As Senior Director of Business Applications, Fannie leads the strategic planning, development, and execution of enterprise-wide property management solutions. With over 30 years of industry experience, Fannie specializes in aligning technology initiatives with business goals to improve operational efficiency, enhance user experiences, and support long-term growth. In her role, Fannie manages a diverse portfolio of property management solutions and works closely with cross-functional teams to assess business needs, ensure the integration of cutting-edge technologies, and oversee the lifecycle of critical applications. She manages a team of skilled professionals who provide timely and effective solutions to end-users and guides the organization through seamless software migrations with minimal disruption to operations.
Session: The Future of Fraud Prevention: Using AI to Detect and Defend | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.
Alan Walsh
Chief People and Culture Officer | Advenir Azora
Alan Walsh is the Chief People and Culture Officer at Advenir Azora Living, where he leads strategic HR initiatives that drive employee engagement and organizational success. With over 22 years of experience, Alan specializes in aligning talent strategy with business goals, fostering high-performance cultures, and leading change. A respected voice in the HR community, he brings practical insights on leadership, organizational design, and people development. Alan has a master’s degree in human resources management from Utah State University. Alan has been an active member of the Society for Human Resources Management and various apartment associations throughout his career.
Session: I See You: The Leadership Shift That Retains Top Talent | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.
Russ Webb
Executive Director | Bay Area Apartment Association
Russ Webb is the Executive Director of the Bay Area Apartment Association, with more than 25 years of experience leading and transforming associations. A tech junkie and speaker extraordinaire, he’s passionate about customer service, the power of social media, and helping other organizations reach their full potential. He is a teacher at heart and the originator of edu-tainment – making people laugh while learning. Russ’ sessions range from how to use technology tools to be more productive, to why upping your emotional intelligence is the most powerful tool a leader can have.
Session: Multifamily Majority Rules | Friday, November 7 @ 1:15 p.m.
Marcie Williams
Chief Strategy Officer | The Bainbridge Companies
Marcie Williams serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for Bainbridge Companies, overseeing operations, brand, culture, and growth. She is a highly accomplished leader in the multifamily industry with over 30 years of distinguished experience in property management, executive strategy, business development, and corporate initiatives. Her impressive career includes previous roles at RKW Residential, Greystar and Camden Property Trust. She holds several professional designations, including Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS) and Certified Property Manager (CPM®). Marcie has been deeply involved in the Greater Charlotte Apartment Association (GCAA), having served on the Board of Directors, acted as Board President, and contributed significantly as a founding member of the association's Education Foundation and Education Advisory Council. In addition to her role at Bainbridge, Marcie is an active member of the UNC-Charlotte Childress Klein Center for Real Estate Advisory Board. Marcie is an active member of professional organizations such as IREM and ULI and serves on the Membership committee for NMHC. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Session: I See You: The Leadership Shift That Retains Top Talent | Thursday, November 6 @ 4:30 p.m.