Creating exceptional communities starts with creating an exceptional workplace, and recently, that commitment was recognized in a major way. Dweck Properties was officially named one of the Washington Business Journal’s Best Places to Work in the large companies category. This tremendous achievement reflects the culture built over the last several years across the company, embraced and lived each day by our Dweck team members.

This honor is especially meaningful because it is based directly on employee feedback, with Dweck earning one of the highest survey scores among more than 100 companies recognized across all industries. Even more notably, Dweck was the only property management company in the DC area to receive the honor.

For Kathy Murphy, Chief People Officer, the award represents far more than a title.

“For all of us, this is outside validation of what we felt this company had evolved to,” shared Kathy. “We took each of our values and assigned measurable goals to demonstrate our commitment to them. This recognition is proof of that work, and it motivates us to continue building a best-in-class workplace.”

Over the past five years, Dweck has focused on fostering an environment where employees feel supported, empowered, and genuinely proud of the work they do every day. The company’s philosophy centers around a simple but powerful belief: when team members flourish, the company flourishes alongside them.

“We strive to deliver a safe, beautiful ecosystem for our team members to thrive and prosper,” Kathy said. “Their success is our success, but it has to be in that order.”

That philosophy is reflected not only in Dweck’s values, but also in the way the company invests in its people. Team member commitments, daily behaviors that define how Dwecksters show up for one another, account for 50% of annual performance evaluations, reinforcing the belief that being a great teammate is just as important as excelling in a role.

According to Chief Operating Officer Robert Vaughan, trust is at the center of the company’s success.

“We genuinely enjoy working together and just have fun,” Robert shared. “That kind of energy comes from a strong foundation of trust. Our team members know we’re invested in their success and committed to supporting them however we can. This is a place where people feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and be open and real.”

That commitment extends beyond the workplace through benefits and programs designed to support team members both professionally and personally. Among the most beloved is the annual Week of Rest, when normal business operations pause between Christmas and New Year’s Day, giving team members additional paid time off to recharge and spend time with loved ones. Dweck also offers rental discounts, parental leave for both parents, paid community service hours, and a PTO leave-sharing bank for emergencies.

Professional growth remains another cornerstone of the Dweck experience. Through initiatives like Dweck Academy and ongoing technical training programs, team members have opportunities to earn certifications, develop new skills, and advance their careers. This year alone, more than 60 maintenance professionals graduated as Certified Maintenance Professionals after completing a rigorous training curriculum.

While leadership may help guide the vision, Kathy is quick to point out that this achievement belongs to every Dweckster who contributes to the culture each day. From onsite teams to corporate staff, every employee has played a role in shaping the company into what it is today.

“It takes every single team member contributing in positive ways to make the culture and the company what it is,” Kathy added. “The team feels this. They did this, and they are proud of their creation.”

That culture is perhaps best celebrated at DweckStars, the company’s annual awards event that recognizes team members who exemplify Dweck’s values while delivering outstanding results. The event has become a favorite tradition across the company, bringing team members together to celebrate achievements, recognize service, and honor the DweckStar of the Year.

As Dweck celebrates this milestone, the recognition also serves as motivation for the future. The goal is not simply to earn the title once, but to continue growing and improving, ensuring Dweck remains a place where employees can build meaningful careers, strong relationships, and lasting impact.

To every Dweckster who made this achievement possible: thank you. This recognition belongs to all of you.