Budget for ONE Conference, April 27-29, in San Antonio! 
TAA Professional Awards
Excellence isn't built by one person. It's built by thousands of professionals working together to create communities across our great state. Celebrate the people building the standard for Texas multifamily. Professional Awards winners are recognized live at the annual TAA ONE Conference.
Nominate the Best of Texas
TAA Professional Awards – Important Dates
Nomination Submission Deadline: October 30, 2026
Application Completion Deadline: November, 2026
For questions about TAA's 2027 Professional Awards or AE nominations and applications, email awards@taa.org.
2026 TAA Professional Award Winners
2026 Anita Marcino Leasing Professional of the Year Award
Desirae Kallies
Leasing Professional, Stone Loch Apartments
Westminster Management | Houston Apartment Association
Desirae Kallies sets the gold standard for leasing excellence. Averaging an impressive nine leases per month and earning a 100% shopping report score, Desirae’s performance reflects professionalism, product knowledge, and an unmatched commitment to the resident experience. Her dedication to excellence makes her a standout representative of the leasing profession and a well-deserved recipient of the 2026 Anita Marciano Leasing Professional of the Year Award.
2026 Barbara MacManus Manager of the Year Award
Wade Nauman
Senior Community Manager, Foxtail by Banyon
Greystar | Austin Apartment Association
Wade Nauman’s ability to lead with adaptability and insight sets him apart. Overseeing three properties with distinct resident profiles, Wade has demonstrated exceptional skill in managing communities at different stages of the property lifecycle. His thoughtful leadership ensures that diverse resident needs are met while maintaining strong operational performance. Congratulations to Wade, the 2026 Barbara MacManus Manager of the Year.
2026 Mary Williams Maintenance Professional of the Year Award
Jesus Zepeda
Regional Director of Maintenance, Camden Property Trust
Houston Apartment Association
With oversight of more than 7,000 make-readies and the completion of 150,000 service requests—averaging 12,500 per month, Jesus Zepeda’s impact on operations across the Texas market is extraordinary. His leadership, efficiency, and commitment to quality maintenance services exemplify the vital role maintenance professionals play in resident satisfaction and asset performance. We proudly recognize Jesus as the 2026 Mary Williams Maintenance Professional of the Year.
2026 Rita Kirby Regional Manager of the Year Award
AJ Walker
Regional Property Manager, Rainier
Austin Apartment Association
Achieving an average economic occupancy of 89.5%, AJ Walker exemplifies strategic leadership and operational excellence. Beyond performance metrics, AJ is deeply engaged in the community and the industry—volunteering time and sharing knowledge to help educate the next generation of multifamily professionals. We are proud to honor AJ as the 2026 Rita Kirby Regional Manager of the Year.
2026 Bob Ross Independent Owner of the Year Award
Brant Walz
Owner, WPM Communities
San Antonio Apartment Association
Brant Walz’s commitment to operational excellence is reflected in an average physical occupancy exceeding 92%, along with strong cash flow and consistent performance. As an independent rental owner, Brant demonstrates what is possible through smart management, dedication, and a resident-focused approach. Congratulations to Brant, the 2026 Bob Ross Independent Rental Owner of the Year.
2026 George Allen Association Executive of the Year
Toni Stithem
Association Executive, Victoria Apartment Association
Through innovative leadership and a passion for education, Toni Stithem has grown member forum participation by an impressive 200% in the past year. Her commitment to developing future industry leaders is evident through the numerous scholarships awarded to students pursuing careers in multifamily housing. Congratulations to Toni, the 2026 George Allen Association Executive of the Year.
2026 Affordable Housing Community
of the Year
New Hope Housing at Reed
Houston Apartment Association
Represented by Stacey Lastovica
New Hope Housing at Reed stands as a powerful example of how affordable housing can transform lives. Going beyond shelter, this community supports food security, childcare, health services, and healing, restoring stability and dignity for families in crisis. We are honored to recognize New Hope Housing at Reed as the 2026 Affordable Housing Community of the Year.
2026 Mike Clark Supplier Partner Company of the Year
Dixie Interiors
Houston Apartment Association
With 55 years in business and a dedicated team of 15 professionals averaging more than 23 years of tenure, Dixie Interiors exemplifies long-term partnership and service excellence. Their continued commitment to the multifamily industry has made a lasting impact across Texas. We are proud to recognize Dixie Interiors as the 2026 Mike Clark Supplier Partner Company of the Year.
2026 Olin Steele Lifetime Achievement Award
Kristin McLaughlin
Director of Customer Engagement, Dixie Interiors
Houston Apartment Association
Celebrating 40 years in the multifamily industry, Kristin McLaughlin’s career reflects unwavering dedication, leadership, and service at the local, state, and national levels. Her influence and commitment embody the spirit of the Olin Steele Award, honoring a lifetime of contributions that continue to strengthen our industry. Congratulations to Kristin, the 2026 Olin Steele Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.
