M.I.N.D. Mentoring Program
Mentoring In New Dimensions
UPCOMING EVENT: Legislative Panel Discussion
May 27th, 12:45 - 4:00
The AAMD MIND Program is a core pillar of our Inclusion & Diversity Committee, created to bring industry members together in a purposeful and meaningful way. Through this program, professionals have the opportunity to build strong connections, expand their networks, and engage in collaborative learning experiences that strengthen our entire industry.

The program pairs current Metro Denver industry leaders with mentees who are eager to grow in their careers, providing a structured space to review individual developmental goals, hold open and supportive conversations, and receive personalized guidance on their professional paths. Mentors serve as trusted resources, helping mentees navigate challenges, recognize opportunities, and build confidence as emerging leaders.
The MIND Program includes monthly one-on-one meetings, quarterly panel sessions featuring

experienced voices from across the industry, and regular check-in touch points that ensure ongoing support and accountability. This intentional structure fosters deeper relationships, meaningful dialogue, and consistent progress throughout the year.
By investing in mentorship, collaboration, and continuous growth, the MIND Program plays a vital role in cultivating the next generation of leaders and strengthening the culture of inclusion, diversity, and professional excellence within our industry.
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Felisha Austin Willow Bridge Property |
Felisha Austin, Area Vice President, is an 18-year property management veteran currently overseeing 6,500 units in Colorado for Willow Bridge Property Company. Felisha is recognized for fostering a culture of engagement and collaboration with her team members, residents, vendors, and clients. As a result, Felisha consistently cultivates and delivers some of the best top-performing and reputable apartment communities in the Denver Metro area. Outside of property management, Felisha enjoys spending time outdoors with her two boys and husband, consisting of lots of basketball, football, and laundry! |
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Naomi Marquez Willow Bridge Property |
Naomi Marquez is a seasoned multifamily executive with 35 years of experience. She currently serves as Vice President of Colorado for Willow Bridge Property Company, where she oversees operations, talent development, and portfolio performance across the state. Naomi began her career as a leasing agent immediately after high school and advanced through every level of property management, gaining deep expertise across workforce housing, value‑add repositioning, Section 8, LIHTC, conventional, and lease‑up communities. Her experience spans owner managed and third party, giving her a uniquely balanced operational and ownership focused perspective.
In addition to her corporate leadership, Naomi has built two property management companies from the ground up, demonstrating entrepreneurial vision, operational rigor, and an ability to scale systems, teams, and culture. She has also served as an Asset Manager, partnering closely with ownership groups to drive NOI growth, execute business plans, and align operational execution with investment strategy.
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Desiree Romero Avenue5 |
With more than 12 years in the multifamily industry, I’m proud to say I have reached my long-term goal of being a Regional Manager with Avenue5 Residential. My journey began right out of high school when I took a chance on a leasing position and quickly discovered that property management—not college—was the path meant for me. After taking a year off to spend precious time with my daughter (who somehow is already four!), I returned to the industry with a fresh perspective and a drive to keep growing. Since then, I’ve grown through every on-site position, and am now in a corporate leadership role where I can focus on creating great experiences for residents, and maintain strong, well-run communities. I genuinely enjoy the people side of what I do—building relationships, solving problems, and helping everything run smoothly behind the scenes.
Through the AAMD’s MIND program, I’ve been able to strengthen my leadership skills, expand my network, and continue reaching new heights.When I’m not at work, you’ll probably find me laughing with friends and family, binge-watching terrible reality TV, or enjoying a well-earned strawberry margarita. |
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Tamera Greene Thompson Thrift Development, Inc. |
I entered the industry 27 years ago under circumstances that could have easily broken me. Following my divorce, I suddenly found myself a single mother to my three-year-old son. Within just a month, I lost my home, my car was repossessed, and I had no job. While looking for housing, I waited nearly 20 minutes in an office where a young woman was overwhelmed, frustrated, and working alone. Out of compassion, I asked if she needed help. She said yes, and soon after, I applied for a Leasing Consultant position and was hired.
On my very first day, the Regional Manager handed me the keys to the property and informed me that I was the manager. To make matters even more challenging, the entire team walked out, and I suddenly had to hire and lead a new team—with absolutely no prior industry experience. In that moment, I knew I had to make a choice that would forever shape my life. I chose to rise to the challenge, to provide for my son, and to never again let my future be dictated by circumstances or others’ decisions.
The journey wasn’t easy. Along the way, I trained and managed many people, helping them achieve their own success, even while I was overlooked for promotions at times. But I stayed committed, kept pushing forward, and today I am proud to serve as a Vice President and President-Elect of AAMD. |
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Caleb Fanch RedPeak |
I am Caleb Fanch a multi-site property manager at Redpeak. I started in the industry as a temp through robert half in August 2021. I was hired by UV residential as a multi-site assistant manager and my career took off from there with me moving to Redpeak in July of 2022 which I am now a senior multi-site manager at. I would consider myself an expert at turning around difficult properties, resident communications and the ability to lead a team not only to property goals but personal goals. One of the things I love the most in this industry is getting my staff promoted or helping them achieve their goals. Little bit about myself I am a parent of 3 beautiful girls, play semi pro hockey on the weekends and love getting into the mountains with my family and dog Duke. |
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Chris Price MAXX Properties |
I have been in the Multifamily Industry for over 25 years in several different markets nationwide. I started my career as a groundskeeper in the Phoenix market back in the mid 1990’s and worked my way through the ranks on all types and sizes of properties from Class A to Tax Credit and New Builds. For the last 12 years I have been in a Regional Maintenance/Construction roll, and truly enjoy being able to train current service team members and developing new team members to continue to grow in the Multifamily industry. |
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Ashley Price TruAmerica Multifamily |
Ashley Price has spent the last 20 years in the multifamily world, wearing just about every hat along the way—from groundskeeper and property manager to supplier partner and now leading interior renovations across four states for a large ownership group. She’s passionate about transforming spaces and bringing new life to communities. When she’s not knee-deep in renovation projects, you’ll find Ashley surrounded by her family, her pack of animals, or out in the garden with her hands in the dirt (and a big smile on her face).
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Marcella Eppsteiner Mission Rock Residential |
An experienced and award-winning multi-family executive, I seek to authentically and sustainably enhance the internal and external customer experience. Inspiration, creativity, and an obsession with collaboration continue to drive my reimagining customer engagement strategies, empowering performance-driven teams, and leveraging data to help spark change while strengthen team members’ career. |
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Martin Caliz Brookfield Properties |
Experienced National Director of Maintenance and Engineering with a demonstrated history of working in the real estate, apartment management and construction industry. Skilled in developing scopes of work, facility, budget, capital projects, renovations., acquisitions, vendor management relationships in new construction and stabilized properties. CPO, IIRCRC, EPA, and First Aid Certified. Strong support professional with a lead by example attitude. |
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Orapin Willians Woodspear Properties |
With nearly 20 years in Property Management, I bring a true passion for training, supporting my communities, and driving results. I take pride in leading with experience, dedication, and enthusiasm. Outside of work I’m a proud mom of three amazing children and a grandmother to an adorable grandson I can never say no to. I also have two dogs who wake up with different personalities every day, keeping life, fun and interesting. I look forward to meeting everyone and building great connections in my new role as Area Manager.
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Michelle Davis BH Management Services, LLC |
Michelle brings 19 years of comprehensive experience in property management and real estate to the MIND Mentor Program. A licensed real estate agent and Multi-Site Senior Community Manager, she has built a diverse career spanning multifamily and single-family property management, investor consulting, and both residential and investment sales.
With a strong passion for education and professional development, Michelle is dedicated to supporting the growth of emerging leaders in the industry. She focuses on fostering confidence, mindfulness, and practical knowledge among mentees, ensuring they are equipped to navigate real-world challenges with clarity and competence. Her commitment to transparency, patience, and genuine care has shaped her leadership style and the success of the teams she has guided.
Known for her expansive network of trusted industry partners, Michelle stands by her motto: “If you have a problem, I have a guy.” She is honored to contribute to the Apartment Association of Metro Denver’s mission of developing the next generation of thoughtful, skilled property management professionals. |
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Faith Mendoza MAXX Properties |
Faith works in Learning and Development for Maxx Properties in Denver, CO. She began her career in property management as a leasing consultant in 2017 and has since built a passion for empowering teams through creative, engaging training experiences. In 2023, she was recognized by the National Apartment Association as one of the Top 20 in Their 20s and is a member of the 2025 Diversity Leadership Program. Faith also serves on the Apartment Association of Metro Denver’s Education Committee. As a national speaker and educator in the multifamily industry, she focuses on fostering growth, connection, and performance through people-centered learning. |
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Jammie Bandor RedPeak |
Jammie Bandor, a native of Indiana, brings more than 20 years of progressive leadership experience in multifamily real estate to RedPeak. Recognized for building and leading high-performing sales, leasing, and maintenance teams, she consistently drives asset stabilization, new acquisitions, lease-ups, and distressed property turnarounds while exceeding occupancy, retention, and NOI targets.
Prior to RedPeak, Jammie served seven years as Senior Regional Manager at Greystar, overseeing the financial and operational performance of portfolios comprising up to nine communities. In that capacity, she implemented innovative traffic, revenue, and retention strategies that delivered measurable outperformance.
Her expertise spans new development, active adult communities, value-add rehabs, Section 8 and tax-credit programs, and corporate housing. A hands-on leader with comprehensive knowledge of all property lifecycle phases, Jammie excels in operational excellence, team development, and value creation. |
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Robyn Cue Denver Apartment Leasing |
With over 20+ years of multifamily experience, I bring deep expertise in all facets of property management, including leasing, marketing, sales, and customer service. As an innovative and results-driven leader, I have a proven track record of developing talent, strengthening client relationships, and driving revenue growth. My strengths lie in designing impactful training programs, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and navigating organizational change.
A dynamic presenter and adaptable communicator, my passion is to inspire, develop, and engage employees to achieve both individual and organizational goals. I create and deliver engaging training programs, assess their effectiveness, and provide coaching to enhance sales and service skills. By cultivating strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders at all levels, I drive performance, boost sales, and enhance resident satisfaction. Committed to motivating teams and optimizing performance, I focus on increasing NOI while fostering a culture of excellence. |
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Veronica Huseby Mission Rock Residential, LLC |
I am a Regional Manager with Mission Rock Residential, bringing over a decade of multifamily housing experience and a career that began as a leasing professional before growing into onsite, multi‑site, and portfolio leadership roles. I’m an energetic, people-focused, and bilingual leader who genuinely thrives on connection—whether I’m developing emerging talent, brainstorming new approaches with teams, or helping others find clarity and confidence in their career growth.
I’m currently pursuing my MBA through Colorado State University Global to further strengthen my strategic and operational toolkit and support the industry at a higher level. Outside of work, I’m raising teenagers, staying active through regular workouts, fueling my wanderlust with travel, and fully embracing my identity as a proud book nerd.
I bring enthusiasm, curiosity, and a collaborative spirit to everything I do, and I love any opportunity to build meaningful relationships and lift others up. |
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Sandra Purcell BH Management Services, LLC |
At the core of my work is a genuine passion for people. My journey began in education as a school teacher, and that foundation continues to shape my approach today. I’ve always found fulfillment in teaching, mentoring, and helping others grow. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of developing team members into leadership roles and creating training processes that support long-term success.
Seeing others build confidence, step into new opportunities, and grow in their careers is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. I strive to create an environment where people feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to reach their full potential. |
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Tara Andrews Greystar Real Estate |
Regional Manager for Greystar Denver with experience in class A assets, lease-up communities, and new development. Focused on positive leadership which helps my team and I drive top level results. |
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Monica Slusser Pensam Capital |
Monica serves as Portfolio Manager of Asset Management for Pensam. In her role, she primarily focusses on overseeing property operations, identifying areas of financial growth and maximizing performance.
Additional responsibilities include analyzing property-level financials, evaluating local markets and trends, overseeing extensive capital projects, conducting property evaluations, and aiding in administrative support.
Prior to becoming an Asset Manager with Pensam, Monica worked in multifamily management. She has extensive experience managing for REITs, third-party and owner managed properties in both the Seattle and Denver markets. Her background includes property acquisitions and due diligence, lease ups, value-add renovations, senior living, mid-rise and garden style communities. |
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Melisa Mireles - Caraveo Avenue5 |
With six years in property management, I’ve progressed from leasing agent to a property manager overseeing two properties for the past two years. I’m especially passionate about connecting with people and taking on new challenges that push me to grow! In my free time, I enjoy traveling, going to raves, and hanging out with my 3 dogs and 1 cat. |
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Dina Simental Avenue5 |
I have been working in the Property Management industry for 7 years and am excited to have recently been promoted to Property Manager. I am dedicated to continually learning and expanding my skills to better serve our residents and improve our community. Outside of work, I am passionate about traveling the world. I love meeting new people and experiencing diverse cultures, which inspires me both personally and professionally. |
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Caleb Fanch RedPeak |
I am Caleb Fanch a multi-site property manager at Redpeak. I started in the industry as a temp through robert half in August 2021. I was hired by UV residential as a multi-site assistant manager and my career took off from there with me moving to Redpeak in July of 2022 which I am now a senior multi-site manager at. I would consider myself an expert at turning around difficult properties, resident communications and the ability to lead a team not only to property goals but personal goals. One of the things I love the most in this industry is getting my staff promoted or helping them achieve their goals. Little bit about myself I am a parent of 3 beautiful girls, play semi pro hockey on the weekends and love getting into the mountains with my family and dog Duke. |
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Kevin Nguyen Avenue5 |
I have four years of experience in the multifamily industry, working across a wide range of properties—from C-Class communities to A-Class luxury, and from 100-unit properties to communities with over 700 units. I transitioned into property management from a retail background in search of a more fulfilling and sustainable career.
What’s kept me in this industry is the strong network of supportive peers and mentors who are truly invested in each other’s growth. I was recently promoted to Property Manager, and I’m grateful for the support system within my current company, as well as my mentors and peers in MIND who helped me get here! |
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Nicole Mabang Trinity Property Consultants |
With 25 years in the multifamily industry—including 16 years in leasing—I spent much of my career where I truly thrived. Leasing was a great fit for me and supported the work/life balance I needed at the time. I most recently spent 2 years with RedPeak as a Multi‑Site Community Manager. In December 2025, I joined Trinity Property Consultants as a Senior Community Manager, overseeing their newest acquisition in the Denver market. I’m excited to be part of the Trinity team and to continue growing my career with the organization. Outside of work, I’m the proud mom of 4 amazing kids—3 daughters (11, 17, and 19) and 1 son who is 25. I love being outdoors, spending time at the gym, enjoying family time, and being anywhere by the water. |
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Grace Talbert Avenue5 |
Grace Talbert is an accomplished Property Manager in multifamily communities across Denver. She began her career as a Leasing Agent, quickly earning a reputation for her strong resident rapport and operational reliability. Her talent and dedication led her to advance into the role of Assistant Property Manager, where she deepened her expertise in day-to-day operations, financial management, and resident satisfaction. Over the past five years, Grace has excelled in leading high-performing teams and consistently driving exceptional results. Her leadership style blends accountability, coaching, and a people-first approach; qualities that have made her a trusted leader and a key contributor to the success of the communities she oversees. With a passion for building thriving communities and empowering teams, Grace continues to set the standard for operational excellence in the Denver multifamily market.
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Leslie Lanier Greystar Real Estate |
Leslie has been in the property management industry for six years, steadily working her way up through a variety of roles that have shaped her into the leader she is today. She began her career in leasing, advanced to assistant manager, then manager, and later dual-site manager. She went on to serve as a regional admin analyst before stepping into her current role as a Property Manager with Greystar. Driven, dedicated, and passionate about her work, Leslie is always striving for excellence and looking forward to continued growth in her career and in the communities she serves.
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Amanda Saenz Centerspace |
Leasing professional with a strong foundation in operations, client relations, and on-the-job adaptability. At a Class A property in the heart of Denver, I consistently exceed conversion goals as a top performer on a high-achieving team. Beyond leasing, I’ve taken initiative in marketing, CRM optimization, and reporting, always looking for ways to streamline processes and improve the resident experience. With a background in business and financial analysis, I blend data-driven insight with strong interpersonal skills. I’m eager to grow within the property management industry, expanding into operations, customer experience, or project coordination. Known for being a reliable, solutions-focused team player, I’m ready for what’s next and open to opportunities that challenge me and allow me to make a meaningful impact. |
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Rey Fracassi Mission Rock Residential |
I bring 9 years of experience in property management. Currently I am the Service Manager at the community of Environs, working for Mission Rock Residential. In this role, I oversee maintenance operations, vendor partnerships, team development, and focus on strategic initiatives to enhance and preserve the asset. I am a proud husband and father of three. Whether it's trips to the park or board game night, I value my time with them the most. In my spare time you can find me at the gym or coaching football. |
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Victoria Lucero Bell Partners |
Victoria Lucero is a property management professional with over four years of experience in Class A and luxury multifamily communities. She began her career as a Leasing Consultant and was quickly promoted to Assistant Property Manager, gaining strong expertise in operations, leasing, financial performance, and resident relations. Victoria is known for her professionalism, leadership, and commitment to delivering exceptional resident experiences while supporting the overall success of her communities. |
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Katie Monjay Greystar Real Estate |
Currently serving as a Resident Services Coordinator with Greystar, where she focuses on enhancing the resident experience and strengthening community engagement. She began her career in multifamily right out of college as a Leasing Consultant and quickly advanced into leadership roles, including Leasing Manager and Renewal Manger, overseeing portfolio-wide renewals and developing strong expertise in retention strategy and operations.
She is a 2023 AAMD Tribute Finalist for Outstanding Leasing Professional (Under 300 Units), recognized for her performance and impact in the industry. She is passionate about continued growth, strategic thinking, and delivering exceptional community experiences within multifamily housing. |
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Ryan Holt Greystar Real Estate |
Ryan Holt is an experienced Leasing Manager with a strong foundation in the apartment management industry, having worked in multifamily housing since 2017 following his Father into the Industry. He began his career taking on summer leasing roles between college semesters while also competing as a collegiate basketball player. That experience helped shape his competitive drive, discipline, and team-oriented mindset.
Over the years, he has built a diverse portfolio of experience, contributing to the success of lease-up communities, navigating property sale transitions, and delivering exceptional service within luxury apartment environments. His background across various asset types has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of market positioning, occupancy strategy, and resident retention. Known for his strong work ethic and results-driven approach, Ryan consistently pushes himself and his teams to exceed performance goals. His competitive nature fuels his success in fast-paced leasing environments, while his leadership style fosters collaboration and accountability. He is especially passionate about creating vibrant community experiences and enjoys hosting resident events that strengthen connections, enhance satisfaction, and elevate the overall living experience.
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Tahlia Orozco Bryten |
Tahlia Orozco is a Leasing Professional with Bryten, where she is beginning her career in the multifamily housing industry. With a strong foundation in customer care and a genuine passion for helping others, Tahlia brings empathy, dedication, and attention to detail to every resident interaction.
Before entering the multifamily world, Tahlia spent three years in college pursuing a path in medicine. While her career direction evolved, her commitment to helping people never changed. She discovered that guiding individuals and families to comfortable, happy homes allows her to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives every day. Tahlia is known for her approachable nature, strong communication skills, and desire to create positive living experiences for residents. She is excited to grow within the multifamily industry and to continue supporting Bryten’s mission of building communities people are proud to call home. |
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Dezleen Valles Avenue5 |
Hi everyone! I’ve been in the apartment industry for about three years now, after transitioning from retail, and at this point, I’m fully an apartment industry career girl
This field has really helped me grow not just professionally, but also in my overall passion for working and building something meaningful. I love supporting my peers, collaborating, and sharing new ideas that help us all succeed. I’m very dedicated to continuing my growth in this industry, always learning and striving to do my best in every role I take on. I’m also a big people person. I love to talk and connect, so I’m really looking forward to getting to know and chatting with not just the peers within my company but others as well! |
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Shay Hopewell RedPeak |
I started out as a green leasing agent within the RedPeak portfolio of properties. About six months in, my manager Nicole fast-tracked me for operations cross-training. When a position became available, she encouraged me to apply, which led to my current role that I have held since March 2025.
I thoroughly enjoy learning new things and discussing best practices to help me generate resident satisfaction while ensuring my company puts its best foot forward in handling all situations. |
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Rubi Cabrera Monarch Investment Management Group |
I am currently with Monarch Investment and Management Group, where I continue to grow in my role by focusing on resident retention, resolving resident concerns, and supporting overall community operations. I am passionate about professional growth and am eager to continue building my skills through mentorship and development opportunities within the industry.
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Aaron Clause Mission Rock Residential |
Aaron Clause is a dedicated and growth-driven professional currently advancing his career in residential property management. With a strong foundation in community operations, team leadership, and resident experience, Aaron is passionate about developing systems that improve efficiency and support both team members and residents.
As a mentee in the MINDS program through AAMD, Aaron is focused on expanding his leadership capabilities, strengthening his operational strategy skills, and gaining deeper insight into industry best practices. He values mentorship as a tool for continuous improvement and is committed to applying what he learns to elevate his impact within his organization and the communities he serves.
Known for his proactive communication style, problem-solving mindset, and commitment to excellence, Aaron is excited to engage with peers and industry leaders through the MINDS program. His goals include preparing for senior-level leadership roles, contributing to stronger organizational processes, and helping shape the future of property management through innovation, accountability, and collaboration. |
Recent events included:

- 2026 Q1 Panel: Battling New Construction
- MIND Meet-Up where our 2025-2026 mentors and mentees gathered for an informational session and had the opportunity to network
- MIND Financial Boot Camp Panel where industry leaders led a panel where mentees were able to ask questions on budgets, financials, & get feedback on financial best practices.
- Maintenance 101 panel where we welcomed mentees to bring additional

- Maintenance team members to join a panel of our Denver RSMs and Directors to discuss communications between operations, maintenance budgeting and collaboration must haves between maintenance & office.
- We’ve also hosted MIND connection Happy Hours and Check in’s to get everyone together to see how progress is going, and to celebrate those new promotions we are seeing.
Get Involved!
We onboard new mentees and mentors every January and June, though applications are encouraged throughout the year.

































