On June 16 and 17, Fitch Irick employees, sponsors, and partners gathered at The Casey by Beau Monde in Charlotte, NC for the Fitch Irick 2026 Annual Conference & Awards.
Centered around the theme “Let’s Lead. Let’s Connect. Let’s Create MAGIC Together,” this year’s conference brought our organization together for two days of learning, recognition, collaboration, and meaningful connection. It was an opportunity to celebrate the people behind our work, strengthen relationships across teams, and continue building momentum around our shared mission in affordable housing.
Creating MAGIC Together
The conference theme reflected the energy, innovation, and collaboration that continue to shape Fitch Irick. Across the two-day experience, team members came together to learn from one another, engage in thoughtful discussions, and reflect on the importance of leadership, service, and teamwork.
This year’s program also featured special guests who helped bring the theme to life in memorable ways. Keynote speaker Toni Blake brought insight, humor, and perspective to conversations around leadership, connection, and the importance of staying grounded in an evolving workplace. The evening program also included a magical experience with Jack Kelly, adding an unforgettable moment of energy and celebration to the event.
Throughout the conference, the message was clear: strong organizations are built by strong people. From corporate support to property management, operations, development, redevelopment, acquisitions, compliance, finance, and leadership, every function plays an important role in advancing the work we do for residents and communities.
Learning, Leadership, and Connection
The conference featured a range of sessions and experiences designed to support professional growth and strengthen organizational alignment.
Team members heard from speakers who brought insight, humor, and practical perspective to topics including leadership, collaboration, technology, hiring, and team performance. Sessions also encouraged attendees to think about how human connection, empathy, and presence remain essential in an evolving workplace.
The event also included hands-on moments that reinforced the value of teamwork. Through collaborative activities and shared experiences, attendees were reminded that every person and every role contribute to the larger structure of the organization. When teams communicate clearly, trust one another, and work toward a shared goal, they create stronger outcomes together.
Celebrating Excellence Across Fitch Irick
A key highlight of the conference was the Awards Ceremony, which recognized individuals, teams, and communities whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence continue to make a meaningful impact.
Congratulations to this year’s award winners:
Collaboration Award: Jeremy Burris, Shenica Henley, Ryan Pringle, and Sarah Houle
Core Value Award: Tammy Simmons, Julie Tucker, and LeShea Long
Concur Queen: Nancy Gordon
Gold Standard Collections Award: Fields of Toe and James Lewis Jr.
Ledger MVP: James Payne
Mission Impossible Award: Will Morris
MVP: Heather Lasker, Shelly Lane, Chase Hayes, and Ryan Rowell
Property Manager of the Year: Ashley Branscome and Shawnic Merriman
Property of the Year: Nottoway Manor and Brooke Pointe Manor
Regional Manager of the Year: Sue Frankel and Melissa Williams
Rising Star: Jenifer Asbell and Candi Grider
Risk Shield Excellence Award: Worth Walker
Rookie Rock Star: Rachel Ryder, Shana Meeks, and Anna Legrand
Service & Facilities Employee of the Year: Brint Russell and Chris Meyers
Strategic Support Excellence Award: Nicole Burt and Kathi Cota
Swiss Army Award: Cam Overton
Unsung Hero: LauriAnn Whack
These honorees represent the teamwork, service, and commitment that help Fitch Irick move forward. Their work supports residents, strengthens communities, improves operations, and contributes to the long-term success of our affordable housing mission.
Recognition is an important part of celebrating progress, but the conference also served as a reminder that every team member contributes to Fitch Irick’s success. Every role matters, and every achievement is supported by the collective effort of people working together across the organization.
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Partners
Fitch Irick is grateful to the sponsors and partners who helped make the 2026 Annual Conference & Awards possible.
We would especially like to recognize our Gold Sponsors, Caldwell & Gregory and Yardi, for their continued partnership and support. Caldwell & Gregory plays an important role in supporting resident-centered services across our communities, while Yardi helps strengthen the systems and technology that support our property management operations.
Their support, along with the generosity of all our sponsors and partners, contributed to a memorable and engaging experience for our team. From enhancing the overall conference experience to helping support the raffle celebration, these partnerships helped bring additional energy, connection, and appreciation to the event.
We appreciate the organizations that helped make this year’s conference possible: Caldwell & Gregory, Yardi, Creative Builders, Inc., EliseAI, SBT Partners, BRC CPA, Chadwell Supply, HD Supply, Sherwin Williams, Belfor Property Restoration, CAHEC, Connexus, Ferguson, GE, Grace Hill, HappyCo, Lowe’s, and Renovation 1 Contracting.
Thank you for your generosity, partnership, and continued commitment to Fitch Irick.
Building Momentum for What Comes Next
The Fitch Irick 2026 Annual Conference & Awards was more than a two-day event. It was a reflection of who we are as an organization and where we are headed together.
As we continue our work in affordable housing and property management, we carry forward the lessons, connections, and momentum created during this conference. We are grateful to everyone who attended, participated, organized, spoke, sponsored, and contributed to making this experience meaningful.
Together, we lead with purpose. We strengthen connections. We create impact.
That is the MAGIC we created together.
Relive highlights from the Fitch Irick 2026 Annual Conference & Awards. From meaningful conversations and team-building moments to sponsor connections, award recognition, and shared celebration, this recap captures the energy and MAGIC created together in Charlotte.