Hall of Fame Honors: Commemorating Rex Gambrell & Scott Kirkwood

Rex Gambrell

 If you’ve ever had the chance to work with Rex Gambrell, you know one thing for sure—he’s unflappable. Through market downturns, legislative battles, and even the day-to-day pressures of leadership, Rex kept his cool. And somehow, he always managed to make people laugh while doing it. 

Rex’s contributions to AAMD, CAA, and NAA stretch far and wide. During his tenure as the NAA Region VIII Vice President, he became a powerful advocate in D.C., helping defeat a rent control bill and negotiating meaningful revisions to habitability legislation. In addition to serving as AAMD President in 2008-2009, he made an impact in other areas of AAMD as well. Rex has served as Chair of the Economic Conference and June Awards, was a reliable supporter of the AAMD Alliance, and was instrumental in founding the Education Advisory Council.

But it wasn’t just the wins that made Rex stand out—it was how he achieved them. He led with integrity, professionalism, and an understated humor that snuck up on you. His parody of The Apprentice during his outgoing president video remains a favorite memory for many.

 Rex joins the Hall of Fame not just for what he did, but for how he made people feel while doing it: confident, supported, and occasionally caught off guard by a perfectly timed joke. 

Congratulations, Rex—you earned this.

Scott Kirkwood

Some leaders make waves with big gestures. Others, like Scott Kirkwood, lead with quiet strength, steady values, and an ability to make a deep impact without ever raising their voice. Scott’s Hall of Fame induction is a celebration of a man who led not for the title, but for the team.

Scott’s journey through the multifamily housing world spans over 40 years. From his early days renovating housing developments with HUD to working with companies like Archon, Berkshire, Greystar, and Griffis Blessing, Scott built a career defined by purpose and perseverance. He never chased recognition—but he always delivered results. Scott has retired from the multifamily industry, but his contributions throughout his decades-long career are still felt today.

Those who know Scott speak of his wisdom, his mentorship, and his love for giving back. Whether leading JLAC, chairing the Charity Auction, or serving as AAMD President in 2019–2020, he showed up, did the work, and made sure others had the tools to thrive. He even bought a last-minute trip to Africa at a charity event—now his and his wife Linda’s favorite vacation memory.

Scott and Linda are now soaking up retirement in Florida, where they spend their days biking, gardening, cooking to old jazz, and making memories with their grandkids.

Thank you, Scott—for everything you’ve built, supported, and inspired along the way.