Chicago-based Draper and Kramer, Incorporated announced Kelli Stuart, general manager and assistant vice president, received the 2026 Certified Property Manager (CPM) Excellence Award from the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)’s Chicago chapter.
The award was presented to Stuart at IREM Chicago’s annual Premier Awards, held May 8th at Chicago’s Drake Hotel.
The CPM Excellence Award highlights the achievements of a local professional holding IREM’s CPM certification who has demonstrated excellence in their role, including advancing the real estate management profession, providing a high level of service, demonstrating leadership and a commitment to community service, and engaging with IREM.
“In her time with Draper and Kramer, Kelli has shown time and again her skill at consistently delivering an exceptional residential experience and top asset performance regardless of the size or location of the property – a level of versatility that is a hallmark of those holding the CPM designation,” said Julie Stevlingson, senior vice president and director of management services at Draper and Kramer. “In fact, the three properties she currently manages happen to include one of the largest and two of the highest-end boutique properties in Draper and Kramer’s Chicago portfolio, and she seamlessly tailors her approach to each to ensure success in terms of resident satisfaction as well as bottom line. This recognition from IREM only confirms what Kelli’s residents and colleagues already know about her skill, dedication and excellence as a management professional.”
Earned through IREM, the CPM designation is an elite, globally recognized professional certification. It identifies senior-level managers trained to oversee any asset class — including commercial, residential, and mixed-use portfolios — with a focus on maximizing property value and financial return.
Stuart has been with Draper and Kramer for 14 years and has over 17 years of experience in the real estate industry. In her tenure with Draper and Kramer, she has served in several roles, including property manager and leasing director. She currently oversees the properties: 1350-1360 Lake Shore Drive, 61 Banks Street and 1420 Lake Shore Drive, all in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood. Stuart is also an Illinois Licensed Real Estate Broker. An active member of IREM, her involvement includes overseeing the Industry Partners committee.
