5 Star Champions | April 2020

Marla Sherman, Digital Services Center (Texas)

Nominated by Stephanie Hairston (Associa Colorado): Marla assisted me with getting my computer set up at home last night. Due to the current situation with COVID-19, it has been hectic trying to make sure we are all set to go to be able to work remotely. I was having issues with this process and Marla was so helpful and patient while guiding me through the steps. She was friendly and never made me feel rushed. I wish everyone was like Marla. She is truly a 5 Star Champion and her support means even more during a time like this.

5 Star Principle: Demonstrating Care

Jeff Lack, Wilson Blanchard Management (Ontario)

Nominated by Brad Wells: During the current public health pandemic, Jeff has worked tirelessly to provide frequent, clear, and consistent communication to our team and clients. Quickly responding to the changing work environment and to working remotely, Jeff has provided the team with regular updates on decisions. He also set up an internal resource centre for our staff - both to help them adapt to the remote work environment and to provide quick and clear answers to clients and customers. Jeff also created an external resource centre for our clients and the public on our local website; a collection of the Associa client communications that have been sent along with posts and articles from local condo lawyers for additional guidance. Thank you, Jeff, for communicating effectively while leading our teams and coordinating all branch communication during this challenging time.

5 Star Principle: Communicating Effectively

Dan Lagman, The Dartmouth Group (Massachusetts)

Nominated by Jennifer Bouley: Dan is a staff accountant with a full portfolio of communities yet he also serves as the IT support for our Bedford office and on-site team members. This unprecedented time has put all of us to the test. Dan, for one, has passed this test with flying colors! He has made sure that his co-workers have everything necessary to be able to work from home. Dan upgraded and updated hardware and software in record time, working tirelessly to ensure that The Dartmouth Group transitions smoothly into our new work environments. The Dartmouth Group can continue supporting its communities and giving outstanding customer support thanks to Dan.

5 Star Principle: Exercising Leadership

Virginia Tebelau, IPM Corp (North Carolina)

Nominated by Melanie Hudson: Virginia has continued to go above and beyond during the COVID-19 crisis. She often keeps our office in the seasonal spirit with her crafting skills. From decorating the office for Christmas, to seasonal name plates for each of us, she has kept the working atmosphere festive and fun to lift spirits during challenging times. When Masks of Love WNC asked for non-hospital grade cloth masks to be distributed to citizens in the area, Virginia quickly began making masks. People like Virginia, eager to help and share her skills with the community, give us all hope during this unfamiliar time. Thank you, Virginia!

5 Star Principle: Demonstrating Care

Jessica Tobin, Home Office (Texas)

Nominated by Jenniffer Harrington (Associa Mid-Atlantic): Jess is an amazing asset to the Marketing department. She is creative, organized and ALWAYS gets projects done on time (and usually ahead of schedule). Her professionalism and positive attitude are so greatly appreciated and are apparent in the way that she serves others. I admire Jess’ ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances, which is even more appreciated during times like these!

5 Star Principle: Building Relationships

Kayla Gaudioso, Associa Colorado

Nominated by Cecilia Gonzalez: With my new role as a manager and coronavirus changing the way we work, it has been challenging to learn all that I need to. Thankfully Kayla is always willing to take the time and explain processes and procedures to me and anyone else on the team who needs support. Even though we are not in the office, Kayla offers to Skype and Facetime whenever needed. Kayla has even taken additional time to teach me how to read financials so I can best support my communities. I really am thankful to have someone as knowledgeable, patient, and kind as Kayla to guide me through my new role and help set me up for success. Kayla always strives to improve not only herself but her team as well.

5 Star Principle: Exercising Leadership

Grant Harris, Digital Services Center (Texas)

Nominated by Tanisha Griffin: Grant is the Man! Apparently my laptop did not agree with Citrix because of its Windows 8 operating system. Grant worked tirelessly until he figured it out and my issue was resolved. We were on the phone for about an hour and a half and he would not give up. Thank you, Grant!

5 Star Principle: Owning the Resolution

Kara Hardy, Professional Community Management (California)

Nominated by Colleen Morrison: Kara has been a fantastic coordinator in ensuring that we can work remotely from home. She has worked diligently to make the adjustment smooth for all of us. Kara is quick to resolve all issues to allow us to communicate with each other and enable us to continue to get the job done. In addition, Kara has a big heart....working in a 55"+ community, with the average age being 74, she has spent numerous hours working with volunteers in the community to make sure that none of the residents go without anything they might need, including even a phone call....just to communicate and let residents know we care and are here for them. Kara is the Activities Director at our on-site facility and is definitely an asset not only to Associa but to the Colony as well. She is professional and caring at all times. We could not have gotten through this "work at home" transition without Kara!

5 Star Principle: Communicating Effectively

Joshua Porter, Blue Mountain (Oregon)

Nominated by Jeff Williams: During this recent COVID-19 outbreak Josh and the entire Associa OnCall team mobilized in 24 hours to close all the clubhouses and play areas. This covered both Washington and Oregon, requiring a lot of logistics and planning. They were able to complete this in record time protecting our communities and their residents.

5 Star Principle: Exercising Leadership

Aerielle Jones, Houston Community Management Services

Nominated by Rhonda Burrage: Aerielle consistently provides support wherever it is needed but amid the COVID-19 chaos, she has been a rockstar! Aerielle has continued to go into the office every day and has been a lifeline to those of us having to work from home. She efficiently handles phone calls, homeowner adjustments, ACC's, mass mailings and responding to constant inquiries. Aerielle is a five star champion that has been instrumental in the success of our operations throughout this difficult time.

5 Star Principle: Communicate Effectively

Emilia Ferguson, The CSSC (Texas)

Nominated by Katherine Reardon: Through these difficult times, we are all learning how to efficiently work from home. It has not been easy to coordinate the delivery and payment of invoices we receive via mail for our four associations. I submitted multiple Emergency AP requests yesterday after having audited bills that were not received. Emilia answered all of my requests promptly. She also confirmed that one of the invoices had been paid last month, so I was able to call the vendor and confirm. This shows me that she is thorough and ensuring her responses are accurate and thoughtful. I appreciate all of her help!!!

5 Star Principle: Own the Resolution

Paula Ritter, Associa Sierra North (Nevada)

Nominated by Mary Francis: Paula is the CAS for our branch. She is the embodiment of a 5 Star Champion. Paula has completed the UP Leadership program and has put it to use with her team. Even though she may be really busy with financials, she always finds time to help homeowners, board members and co-workers. As a new CAM I am always asking Paula questions on financials.

She explains the issue in a manner I can understand, as a non-financial person. She shows you where you can find the answers and never complains. She also holds financial training several times a year.

Thank you Paula for being our CAS and for everything you do for our Branch.

5 Star Principle: Exercise Leadership