Budget Now for the ONE Conference, April 14-16, 2026, in Fort Worth, TX! 
Getting involved as a volunteer with the Texas Apartment Association (TAA) is one of the best ways to connect your passion to purpose while making a lasting impact on the Texas rental housing industry. Volunteering not only benefits the association and its members—it also fuels personal and professional growth for every leader who steps up to serve.
As part of TAA’s Volunteer Leadership Initiative, members engage through committees, councils, workgroups, and special projects that shape the direction of our industry. By leaning in, sharing expertise, and collaborating with peers across Texas, volunteers strengthen TAA’s mission and help ensure that our industry continues to thrive.
Recognizing the contributions of these exceptional leaders is a proud tradition at TAA. Since 2021, the Volunteer MVP Awards have honored those who go above and beyond, from board to committee members who exemplify commitment, creativity, and collaboration in everything they do.
Now in its fifth year, TAA’s MVP recognition continues to highlight how volunteer leadership drives meaningful change. With help from the TAA Executive Committee and staff committee liaisons, TAA President Renee Zahn has identified nine outstanding individuals whose energy, ideas, and engagement have stood out over the past year. These honorees were recognized during the TAA Board of Directors meeting in October, and were celebrated for their ongoing contributions to the strength and success of TAA.
Introducing TAA’s 2025 MVP Award Recipients
- Jackie Cagle, Rasa Floors – Chair, TAA’s Texas Suppliers Council
- Amber Franklin, Greystar – Chair, TAA Leadership Lyceum and Member, TAAEF Board of Directors
- Gina Frazza, RPM Living – Co-Chair, TAA NextGen Committee
- Stephanie Graves, Q10 Property Advisors – SB 38 Volunteer Testimony Team
- Sam Levassar, Redux Construction – Co-Chair, 2025 TAA ONE Conference
- Char McCurdy, Summit Property Management – SB 38 Volunteer Testimony Team
- Taryn Merrill, Greystar – Chair, TAA’s Affordable Housing Committee
- Crystal Moya, LUMA Residential – Co-Chair, 2025 TAA ONE Conference and SB 38 Volunteer Testimony Team
- Mat Tilley, Ally Waste – Co-Chair, TAA NextGen Committee
In addition, TAA is proud to recognize Mont McClendon as the recipient of the 2025 Frank Finch Presidential Award, selected personally by President Renee Zahn for his outstanding leadership, service, and enduring dedication to TAA’s advocacy efforts. Mont was also honored during the Installation Gala as part of this year’s Fall Board Meeting.
These volunteers exemplify what it means to lead with purpose. Whether testifying at the Capitol, chairing a statewide committee, or mentoring the next generation of industry leaders, they represent the very best of our association: people who show up, step up, and deliver results that matter.
Personal Fulfillment Leads to Professional Recognition
Volunteering with TAA offers both personal fulfillment and professional recognition. It’s a chance to grow your leadership skills, expand your network, and give back to an industry that gives so much in return. Learn more about how to start your volunteer journey by connecting with your local apartment association, TAA’s 24 local affiliates across Texas who are always looking for passionate members ready to get involved. We also invite you to explore TAA’s new Volunteer Pathway resources to help you learn about the many ways to get involved and understand the various paths forward through individual leadership and volunteer groups.