Two companies and four individuals were recognized for excellence and outstanding contributions to the property management industry March 6 during the 16th Annual IREM Chicago Premier Awards and Casino Night. A sold out house of more than 300 industry professionals and guests attended the gala event held at the historic Drake Hotel.
These four professionals earning individual Premier Awards in their respective categories were Crystal Stude, CPM, Community Specialists – CPM of the Year; Angel Edwards, ARM, Baum Revision – ARM of the Year; Shari Vass, CPM, Braeside Community Management – Leadership Award and Tasha Rush, ARM, A & R Katz Management – Rising Star. Two companies that provide products and services to the metropolitan Chicago property management industry also earned awards: Smart Elevator – Industry Partner of the Year and Habitat Company – Property Management Company of the Year.
The 2020 Premier Awards featured a Roaring ‘20s theme, and some participants dressed in period costumes. Table centerpieces included a three-foot tall champagne glass draped with beads and pearls. The evening included food and beverage, casino games, music, camaraderie and recognition on stage for the Premier Awards entrants and winners. Before the Premier Awards were announced, IREM 2020 National President, Cheryl Gray, CPM, delivered an inspirational message via video, which concluded with the lines: “Become what you want to be. We’re IREM.”
The awards ceremony was hosted by 2020 Chapter president, Angela Aeschliman, CPM, and 2016 past president, Brian Lozell, CPM. Aeschliman encouraged members to pursue volunteer positions with the chapter and concluded: “We are IREM, and we are here because of you. And, we are here for you.” Chapter president-elect, Steve Schimmel, CPM, participated by announcing entrants and handing out awards.
A total of 19 nominations were submitted for consideration during the 2020 competition. More than 40 industry partner companies supported the event through sponsorships. The Premier Awards were created to recognize people, organizations and companies for excellence in areas that include innovation and technology, energy conservation, community involvement and leadership, property management, vendor services and embodying the core principles of the ARM and CPM credentials.
Founded in 1953, IREM Chicago has nearly 700 members who are charged with managing office, industrial and multifamily properties throughout metropolitan Chicago. The chapter works to keep members informed on safety standards, legislative activities and other issues that have an impact on commercial real estate property management. And, it provides members with industry education, opportunities for community service, job referral services and guidance for candidates seeking to earn IREM industry designations.
