Register Now for the ONE Conference, April 14-16, 2026, in Fort Worth, TX! 
Each year, our association has the privilege of recognizing supplier partners whose commitment, integrity, and service elevate not only our industry, but the community that supports it. The Olin Steele Supplier Partner Lifetime Achievement Award is more than an honor, it is a tribute to the essential role associate members play in strengthening our associations and advancing our collective success.
TAA Professional Awards recognize individuals who demonstrate excellence, uphold high standards, and actively serve their communities and the rental housing industry. This year, we are proud to celebrate five outstanding finalists who embody the spirit of Olin Steele through their leadership, service, and unwavering dedication to partnership.
A Legacy Built on Heart, Integrity, and Service
Olin Steele was the consummate team player. A dedicated volunteer and passionate advocate for the apartment industry, he helped found several Texas Apartment Association local affiliates across the state. His example set the standard for what it means to be a supplier partner: deeply engaged, reliable, and driven by a genuine desire to support others.
According to his son, Ron Steele, “His biggest strengths were his heart and his word. If he gave you his word on something, you could certainly count on it.” That integrity defined Olin’s career and his relationships, whether through his work with Solon (later WEB Service Company) or Coinmach, companies that have evolved into organizations that continue to be long-time supporters and sponsors of TAA and local apartment associations.
First presented in 1987, the Olin Steele Award was the first award of its kind to recognize an outstanding product or service member. It remains the only award exclusively honoring associate members, underscoring the vital role supplier partners play in advancing the mission of our associations.
Honoring the 2025 Olin Steele Award Finalists
This year’s finalists exemplify the qualities Olin Steele championed: collaboration, trust, service, and leadership. Each has made a lasting impact on their organizations, local affiliate communities, and the broader apartment industry.
Kris Burleson
Indigo Construction | Austin
Iva Creel
Ferguson Facilities Supply | Dallas/Fort Worth
Laura Lestus
The Liberty Group | Houston
Kristin McLaughlin
Dixie Interiors | Houston
Susan O’Brien-Garner
On Point Promotional Team | Dallas/Fort Worth
Celebrating the Power of Partnership
The Olin Steele Award reminds us that success in our industry is built on collaboration. Supplier partners are not just supporters of our mission. They are leaders, innovators, and advocates who help move our associations forward.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to each finalist. Your work honors the legacy of Olin Steele and exemplifies the very best of supplier partnership. Thank you for the commitment you bring to our industry and to the communities you serve.
Join us in celebrating these remarkable professionals and the enduring impact they continue to make, today and for generations to come. Learn more about the TAA Professional Awards and the industry pioneers they are named after.