Member Spotlights, Updates, and News
Hispanic Heritage Month: Jessica Brunga, CPM Candidate
Professional Background:
Seasoned Regional Director with extensive experience overseeing diverse real estate portfolios, including lease-ups, Class A & B communities, value-add properties, and mixed-use assets with retail and office components. Proven success in managing 2,500+ units across Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland. Recognized as a dynamic and adaptable leader with strong interpersonal and diplomatic skills, effective in both independent and team-driven environments. Skilled in driving value creation through strategic financial planning, operational excellence, and client-focused solutions. Expertise includes marketing, sales, and asset management strategies that consistently deliver results. Adept at building and sustaining client and stakeholder relationships to foster trust, retention, and long-term success. Actively engaged in the industry and leveraging social networks to enhance professional growth and community impact.
Key Achievements:
• Successfully managed a portfolio of 17 properties while mentoring and developing six property managers.
• Drove occupancy growth across multiple assets, consistently maintaining rates above 96%.
• Led strategic budgeting and forecasting initiatives that improved financial performance and client satisfaction.
• Recognized for leadership and team development, helping position properties as market leaders in competitive regions.
Innovation and Impact:
I focus on combining data-driven strategies with hands-on leadership to create sustainable growth. By implementing preventative maintenance programs, enhancing resident retention, and driving reputation management initiatives, I have strengthened both property performance and client trust.
Community Involvement:
Beyond operations, I am passionate about mentoring up-and-coming property managers, fostering accountability, and creating pathways for career advancement. I also support community outreach initiatives that strengthen resident engagement and build lasting neighborhood connections.
In Their Own Words:
"Success in real estate is more than numbers—it’s about people, relationships, and vision. When you lead with integrity and invest in others, results follow naturally."
Asian-American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Erin Nicholson
Professional Background:
Associate Director, Cushman & Wakefield, with 26+ years of CRE Property Management experience, including prior employment service at Transwestern. I currently serve on the Programs Committee of IREM Chapter 77, Cushman & Wakefield’s CWlture Social Committee which promotes inclusive and social networking with colleagues, in addition to being a mentor for Cushman & Wakefield’s mentorship program. I maintain a Virginia R/E Sales license and have been a member of CREW.
Key Achievements: Raising a family and managing an effective a work-life balance has been my crowning achievement. I am a full-time working mom with twins, which has not an easy task, nor have decisions been made without careful consideration of benefits or sacrifices to family and future. A balanced philosophy and approach have enabled me to offer the best version of myself to both personal and professional worlds. As a 1st generation immigrant from Korea, adopted as a young child, my children are my greatest contribution to the world. Being a successful businesswoman, who has managed several millions SF of commercial property assets for almost a dozen clients and investors, with a focus on superior service, problem solving, project management and team development, my career has allowed me to be a positive example to my children in hope that they too will bring their talents to the world. Family culture, and a supportive environment have been essential in promoting a caring place for team members, which fosters success and brings value to the assets, company, clients, and each colleague’s professional development. When they succeed, we all succeed.
Community Involvement: I regularly donate, support, or volunteer for various charitable and service organizations, such as Women Giving Back, World Central Kitchen, ACLU, JDRF, No Kid Hungry, and several others. I contribute to Youth Community Theater, Loudoun County HS Fine Arts Boosters as a “theater mom” to a daughter who dreams of being on Broadway.
In Their Own Words: Property management can often be overwhelming with the multitude of challenges, skillsets required, and trials of uncharted waters. The greatest satisfaction comes from within. Leverage your strengths and that of your colleagues, industry partners, resources and always stay positive. When there is a problem, there’s always a solution. "It is better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness." – Eleanor Roosevelt
Women's History Month Member Spotlight: Shaniece Sanford, CPM
Professional Background:
Shaniece is a seasoned real estate management professional with a talent for fostering genuine stakeholder relationships, ensuring client, tenant, and occupant satisfaction. A recognized recipient of the industry’s prestigious Top 30 Under 30 award, she brings over a decade of expertise in construction management, operational efficiency, and comprehensive financial forecasting and reporting. Currently, she serves as an Associate Director at C&W in the District of Columbia, overseeing a portfolio for an international client.
Key Achievements:
ACCOLADES AND ACHIEVEMENTS
· 2017 Top 30 Under 30, Institute of Real Estate Management
· 2017 Chapter Star, Institute of Real Estate Management
· 2017 Special Individual Achievement, Cushman & Wakefield
· 2020 Rising Perform, Cushman & Wakefield
· 2021 & 2022 Kingsley Excellence Award
· Youngest Person of Color to Serve on the IREM National Executive Board
In Their Own Words: "I’ve found that simply requesting a mentor rarely leads to success. Instead, identify individuals whose careers you admire, consistently exceed expectations, and allow mentorship to develop organically. In my experience, the most impactful guidance emerges through dedication, excellence, and authentic mutual respect."
Women's History Month Member Spotlight: Kasara Smith, CPM
Professional Background: I started out in property management as the assistant to the property management department at a local real estate firm. I quickly learned that property management was filled with opportunities and I knew I could have a fulfilling career. I rose through the ranks managing Class A and Trophy class office buildings for institutional clients and am now managing a portfolio at Cushman & Wakefield with a variety of clients.
Key Achievements:
- This year is my 20th anniversary in property management!
Innovation and Impact (optional): The objective of my career has always been to promote property management and I keep that in mind with everything I do from my involvement with IREM on the chapter and international level to my interaction with fellow real estate industry professionals.
Community Involvement : The Breakthrough T1D Real Estate Games are my passion. I was a co-chair of the games last year and am a co-captain of Cushman’s team every year. I love seeing the industry come together for a day of fun and fundraising!
In Their Own Words: "If you’re invited, go. You just need to take the first step which is showing up.”
Women's History Month Member Spotlight: Lauren Hillian
Professional Background
With over a decade of experience in housing, real estate, and property management, I'm currently the Community Manager at BM Smith & Associates. This role involves optimizing operational efficiency, leading resident retention initiatives, coordinating leasing operations, and managing finances. Over the course of my career, I have worked on affordable and tax-credit housing projects, property management, and compliance enforcement at the District of Columbia Housing Authority, where I have been dedicated to ensuring operational excellence, landlord amenability and resident satisfaction.
Key Achievements
• Advocacy for Affordable Housing
My career began at Edmondson & Gallagher Property Services, managing multi-family residential communities before transitioning to a leadership role at District Alliance for Safe Housing (DASH), a low-barrier safe house for survivors of domestic violence. In collaboration with a dedicated team, I helped establish a food bank at one of our largest multi-family communities to address food insecurity and support families overcoming childhood trauma through Turnaround, Inc. Additionally, I spearheaded the lease-up and service coordination for a newly built affordable senior living community, partnering with Miriam’s Kitchen to combat chronic homelessness in Washington, D.C. and MPD’s Coffee with COPS to reduce crime and build healthy community relationships between police officers and citizens.
• Resilience During COVID-19
Shortly after opening Milestone Senior Residences, the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges. As a COVID Ambassador with E&G Group, we partnered with MedStar Health and the Office of Councilmember Vincent Gray on several occasions. I organized vaccination clinics, food distribution programs, and wellness initiatives for vulnerable senior residents—all while overcoming my own life-threatening battle with COVID-19. I also facilitated wraparound services in partnership with Urban Outreach, East of the River Family Strengthening Collaborative, Families First DC, Capitol Area Food Bank, Code 3, MPD, local churches, and others. This ensured that residents had access to essential resources, alleviating concerns about rent, groceries, and medication. Additionally, as an employee liaison, I provided vaccination information, coordinated resources, and encouraged staff vaccinations, achieving an 85% success rate.
• Industry Leadership & Recognition
o 2021 IREM Committee Member of the Year
o 2022 IREM DISI Leader (DEI)
o 2024 IREM Community Service Award
o Above & Beyond Service Award
o Additional notable accomplishments
Innovation & Impact
I firmly believe that housing is a cornerstone of stability and dignity. Housing also plays a critical role in economic opportunity for individuals and their families. In my career, I have led initiatives that go beyond shelter to create thriving, resilient communities and working to provide adequate housing. Adequate housing provides stability and a sense of security, essential elements for maintaining good mental health. From implementing resident technology platforms to designing strategic retention programs, my focus has always been on enhancing the resident experience and operational efficiency.
My involvement with IREM has been instrumental in my growth and impact in the industry. The mentorship and collaboration I’ve experienced have fueled my passion for leadership, inspiring me to pursue my CPM designation. As Chair of the Community Action Committee, I am committed to driving meaningful change in the industry.
Community Involvement
Beyond property management, I am dedicated to mentoring emerging professionals, supporting community-based housing programs, advocating for stability and mental health, and organizing resident engagement initiatives to foster strong neighborhood connections BM Smith Gives Back is an employee-driven community engagement program dedicated to making a meaningful impact. Through this initiative, we remain committed to supporting local efforts and fostering positive change in the communities we serve.
In My Own Words
"Success in real estate isn’t just about properties—it’s about people. When you uplift communities, provide stable housing, and lead with purpose, you create lasting change. I have been graced with gratitude to be part of this industry and to serve the communities that need it most."
Black History Month Member Spotlight: Leigh Carter, CPM
We are proud to celebrate Leigh Carter this Black History Month for her outstanding contributions to the real estate industry.
Professional Background: Leigh Carter is a Senior Vice President, Group Manager with JLL Mid-Atlantic Property Management Group and currently manages 1401 H Street, NW where she manages the staff, financials, tenant relations and day-to-day operational needs including building and tenant improvement projects. She also manages 1100 First Street, NE, and The DC Bar Association buildings in Washington DC as well as oversight of the property management team for 3811 Fairfax Drive in Arlington, VA. Leigh leads by example for strategic success with her team and clients.
Key Achievements:
· - Leigh is a Past President of IREM Chapter 77
· - Was featured in the January/February 2024 edition of the JPM Magazine
· - Holds a number of professional designations and licenses, to include:
o Certified Property Manager (CPM) Designation
o Real Property Administrator (RPA) Designation
o LEED Green Associate Designation
o Virginia Real Estate Salesperson License
o DC Property Manager License
Community Involvement: Leigh continues to participate in community events through IREM and AOBA, and is a mentor with JLL through Black Professionals Network.
In Her Own Words: "Everyone should love what they do, otherwise they will eventually fail at what they are doing. Working hard for something you don’t care about is called stress. Working hard for something you love is called passion. BE PASSIONATE! No alarm clock is needed when your passion wakes you up to succeed!"
Leigh's dedication and excellence exemplify the diverse talent driving our industry forward. We are honored to recognize her achievements and thank her for her inspiring work!
Black History Month Member Spotlight: Kenicia Thomas, CPM
We are proud to celebrate Kenicia Thomas this Black History Month for her outstanding contributions to the real estate industry.
Professional Background: Kenicia Thomas has been a dedicated professional in the real estate industry for 10 years. She currently serves as a Senior Property Manager, leveraging her extensive experience to excel in her role.
Key Achievements:
· Obtained the prestigious Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation
· Successfully led the refinance structure for two significant properties:
o One Freedom Plaza (1301 Pennsylvania Ave NW)
o Dulles Station East (2303 Dulles Station Blvd)
· Awarded the Chapter Ambassador Award in 2019, recognizing her commitment to the industry.
Community Involvement: Kenicia volunteers with the ULI Washington Urban Planning Committee, where she provides valuable insights to students and community leaders about various real estate roles related to real estate development. This involvement demonstrates her commitment to nurturing the next generation of real estate professionals and contributing to community growth.
In Her Own Words: "Learn to serve others and always be willing to learn as you progress in this industry."
Kenicia's dedication and excellence exemplify the diverse talent driving our industry forward. We are honored to recognize her achievements and thank her for her inspiring work!
Black History Month Member Spotlight: Ebony Landon
We are proud to celebrate Leigh Carter this Black History Month for her outstanding contributions to the real estate industry.
Professional Background: Leigh Carter is a Senior Vice President, Group Manager with JLL Mid-Atlantic Property Management Group and currently manages 1401 H Street, NW where she manages the staff, financials, tenant relations and day-to-day operational needs including building and tenant improvement projects. She also manages 1100 First Street, NE, and The DC Bar Association buildings in Washington DC as well as oversight of the property management team for 3811 Fairfax Drive in Arlington, VA. Leigh leads by example for strategic success with her team and clients.
Key Achievements:
· - Leigh is a Past President of IREM Chapter 77
· - Was featured in the January/February 2024 edition of the JPM Magazine
· - Holds a number of professional designations and licenses, to include:
o Certified Property Manager (CPM) Designation
o Real Property Administrator (RPA) Designation
o LEED Green Associate Designation
o Virginia Real Estate Salesperson License
o DC Property Manager License
Community Involvement: Leigh continues to participate in community events through IREM and AOBA, and is a mentor with JLL through Black Professionals Network.
In Her Own Words: " Everyone should love what they do, otherwise they will eventually fail at what they are doing. Working hard for something you don’t care about is called stress. Working hard for something you love is called passion. BE PASSIONATE! No alarm clock is needed when your passion wakes you up to succeed!
Leigh's dedication and excellence exemplify the diverse talent driving our industry forward. We are honored to recognize her achievements and thank her for her inspiring work!
Black History Month Member Spotlight: Ebony Landon, CPM®
We are proud to celebrate Ebony Landon this Black History Month for her outstanding contributions to the real estate industry.
Professional Background:
Ebony Landon is the Senior Vice President of Property Operations at JBG SMITH, where she oversees real estate activities across the company’s managed residential, retail, and commercial portfolio. With extensive industry expertise, Ebony plays a critical role in bridging the gap between business strategy and on-site operations, ensuring efficiency, innovation, and growth in the real estate sector. She holds multiple industry designations, including CCIM, CPM, RPA, FMA, FitWel Ambassador, and LEED Green Associate.
Key Achievements:
- Successfully led strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and tenant experience.
- Spearheaded major contract and security management improvements, driving cost savings and service excellence.
- Recently joined the 2025 IREM Technology Advisory Council, contributing to the conversation on technology’s role in property management.
- Served as President of the Northern Virginia Chapter of IREM and continues to be an active Governing Councilor for IREM International.
- Actively engaged with the National Apartment Association (NAA) and Apartment and Office Building Association (AOBA) to advocate for industry best practices and policy initiatives.
Innovation and Impact:
Ebony is passionate about technology, numbers, and the power of data-driven decision-making in real estate. She thrives on innovation and the opportunities it creates to transform operations, enhance tenant and resident experiences, and drive long-term success. As someone who loves forward-thinking solutions, she is excited about the intersection of technology, real estate, and creativity in shaping the future of the industry. She is also deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of real estate professionals, helping them navigate their careers with confidence and insight.
Community Involvement:
Beyond her professional work, Ebony is a Youth Pastor, deeply committed to mentoring and empowering young people in her church and community. She has volunteered and worked with youth for many years, describing them as "her people." She also serves as Vice President of the Board for Women Giving Back and as a Director on the Board for the Neighborhood Design Center, actively supporting initiatives that uplift underserved communities.
In Her Own Words:
"The future belongs to those who embrace innovation, take bold chances, and believe in what’s possible. Growth happens when we step into the unknown with faith, creativity, and the courage to build something greater."
Ebony's dedication and excellence exemplify the diverse talent driving our industry forward. We are honored to recognize her achievements and thank her for her inspiring work!
DISI Leader Jill Hunt, ARM®
I am passionate about the diversity around us. I love learning about people’s stories and the insights gained from identifying themes and trends across demographics. I am a graduate of Michigan State University. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Merchandising with a minor in Business. I have worked in property management 13 years. I actually got into property management after a non-profit company I worked for downsized, at which time I began my career in residential leasing at Gates Hudson and Dweck Properties. After several years, I was promoted to Assistant Property Manager managing several properties in DC, MD, and VA. I received Rookie of the Year honors at the start of my career for outstanding service. I later earned my ARM certification which prompted me to join the commercial property management team at CBRE as a Real Estate Manager.
At CBRE my passion for DEI was reignited and I was inspired to take a deeper dive into the volunteer role. I was appointed to the Mid-Atlantic DEI Council, where our goal is to create diversity in our culture, recruiting, and community. I also became a member of two employee business resource groups: Black Excellence and Women’s Network.
It was a natural progression to volunteer to serve on the IREM DEI Committee to help build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in all chapters. An IREM colleague, Daniel Rogers, encouraged me to apply to the DISI Leadership program to broaden my efforts nationally. I want to utilize the DISI experiences (networking, DISI mentorship, Global Summit and CPM certification) to attract and welcome more diverse membership. It’s an incredible opportunity and I’m truly honored to be a DISI leader.
Member Spotlight on Erin Grover
by Leigh Carter, CPM®
Erin may be new to you but not to Chapter 77 as she has been volunteering on chapter committees for a while now. She has participated on the Gala Committee and the Summer Party Committee. She recently earned her CPM and for 2023 is nominated on our Board of Directors as Assistant Treasurer.
Erin started out in residential property management and after almost four years, she transitioned over to commercial. She is now a Property Manager at JBG Smith overseeing properties at National Landing for the past three years.
Erin was born and raised in Woodbridge, VA. She has been married for five years and they are raising a sweet little boy named Nolan who is two years old. Now that is not to overshadow their older “four- legged son” named Duke who is a four year old Golden Doodle! However, when asked her most favorite accomplishment, its being a Mom to Nolan. “There is nothing better than the pure love and enjoyment I get from him on a daily basis.” That sounds like total happiness and now all of her favorite hobbies have seemingly just transformed to Nolan. She loves traveling (with Nolan), music/dancing (with Nolan), Shopping (for Nolan), and reading (to Nolan)…absolutely the best! Hopefully, she is teaching him to swim because her favorite vacation spot is anywhere around water. A beach or lake is where she always prefers to go.
I asked Erin to tell me a favorite childhood memory. It makes perfect sense that it was spending time with her grandparents and that all four were the best. Erin gives a true sense of family and how important and meaningful it is to her.
My final question is always to tell me your favorite movie and why. Her answer was just like her, free, fun, and won’t be put in a corner: “Dirty Dancing because why not?!?!? Patrick Swayze is the best!”
Member Spotlight on Daniel
by Leigh Carter, CPM®
Introducing Daniel Rogers! Daniel is an ARM and a CPM with the IREM Northern Virginia Chapter. A highlight for our chapter this year, Daniel was one of two members named as an IREM DISI leader , and on the fun side, is volunteering on our summer party committee.
In college, Daniel became a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. After college he worked with at risk foster youth and from there he, like many of us, fell into property management. Having a business background, he looked for something in business or accounting and six years ago, he started with BM Smith and Associates as a manager of administration, handling more of the financial side of business. He has since been promoted to Community Director and is currently at Penrose Square, a mixed-use project.
Daniel was born and raised in the DMV and is engaged to his partner of 14 years. They have 4 (dog) children, Puggle, Boxer Collier, Boxer Pit, and a Great Dane! He enjoys gardening and travel (favorite place, Puerto Rico) and also serves as the Pastor of a small Bible-based, Christ centered church named Beyond Church. Through the national organization for his church, he was afforded his recent accomplishment: a two- week mission trip to Nigeria! While there, he had the opportunity to visit and speak with the natives, teach, preach, and feed the homeless. Daniel describes his experience as “beyond words” and hopes it will be the first of many such opportunities.
My favorite final question to Daniel was what his favorite movie was and why? I think his answer matches his ability to enjoy life over and over again:
“My favorite movie is Harlem Nights. This movie is filled with legendary comedians and it creates laughter from beginning to end. It does not matter how many times I’ve seen it because it makes me laugh just as much as it did the first time.”
Member Spotlight on Kristin Harmon
by Leigh Carter, CPM®
Meet Kristin Harmon! Kristin is about to become one of our newest CPM® members, having passed the MPSA in November, 2021. I had the pleasure of working with Kristin for just a short time but gained a wealth of knowledge because she is a financial wiz! Kristin joined Cushman and Wakefield in the fall of 2019 as a Senior Property Manager. Right around the corner came the pandemic, but that didn’t stop Kristin from jumping into IREM® with both feet.
Many say COVID-19 provided plenty of time on our hands to really get things done. But let me give you a little view of Kristin’s “plenty of time on her hands.” Kristin and her husband Allen have five daughters (21, 17, 14, & 7 year-old twins!), one son (20) and recently added a mini-Labradoodle, Chase (7 months). She is proud that her oldest daughter is currently double-majoring in Psychology and Digital Media at the University of Maryland Baltimore County, and her son is studying Engineering at the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY. When I asked for her favorite vacation spot, I was not at all surprised to hear it is Disney World!
If Kristin wasn’t busy enough, she decided to pursue what is now her most favorite professional accomplishment, her CPM® credential. As a new CPM® graduate, Kristin feels she has not only become more confident in the ability to provide exceptional client service, but also gained exposure to an array of networking opportunities valuable for her career growth. On a personal note, this achievement added to her favorite overall accomplishment, which is being able to balance an awesome, yet demanding, new career endeavor with her other responsibilities of being a mom (of 7)-wife-virtual teacher-assistant-chef-team sports chauffer-house operations manager!
I asked how she chose property management and she noted, “I didn’t choose property management – property management chose me!” She likes real estate but truly enjoys making lasting connections with people.
The last thing I asked Kristin was what her favorite movie was. Her answer made perfect sense:
“My favorite movie is The Pursuit of Happiness. It shows that even when life doesn’t go as one would have planned, there’s always still opportunity to rise above those obstacles and challenges to achieve one’s dreams.”
