Stepping into Martin Peña’s office, the warmth and character of the space are immediately palpable, underscored by a shelf brimming with eclectic collectibles — a testament to a decade-plus of meaningful connections at Dweck Properties. “These,” Martin gestures with a blend of pride and nostalgia, “are tokens from residents I’ve had the privilege to impact over the years.” Each trinket on display tells a story, a mosaic of moments that collectively capture the profound relationships Martin has nurtured, transforming spaces into homes and connections into lasting bonds.

At the heart of Dweck Properties’ mission to create unforgettable living spaces is Martin Peña, the Property Manager of Quimby on 23rd (formerly known as The Buchanan). Martin’s journey over the last 12 years with Dweck Properties showcases not just his dedication to excellence and community building but also highlights how individual stories of growth and passion can shape the very essence of home for countless residents. His path reflects a deep-rooted commitment to enhancing the lives of those around him, fostering a culture of empathy, innovation, and collective success within Dweck.

Martin’s career trajectory has been defined by hard work, perseverance, and an enthusiasm for hospitality. Like many first-generation Americans, Martin recognized from a young age the value of determination and sacrifice modeled by his immigrant parents working tirelessly to build a new life. Translating their work ethic into his own path, Martin spent over a decade ascending Dweck’s ranks through grit and heart, evolving from part-time Concierge Associate to eventually overseeing Quimby as Property Manager today. In some way, shape or form, Martin has touched many of Dweck’s communities.

Martin’s rise through the ranks was fueled by his innate gift for connecting with people. He thrives on learning residents’ unique stories and pampering them with his trademark charisma and attention to detail. During Martin’s early days as a concierge, Dweck’s CEO recognized his natural way with people and hunger to grow, asking pointed questions to uncover his ambitions. When opportunities arose, Martin leveraged this mentorship to catapult himself to new heights – transferring to Dweck’s largest community, Crystal Towers, as a Leasing Agent, Leasing Manager, Bookkeeper and Assistant Manager, then leading at Crystal City Lofts as his first Assignment as Property Manager before his current role at Quimby on 23rd. Along the way, Martin built an extensive support network he lovingly dubs the “Martin Umbrella,” filled with rising Dweck stars he has coached over the years. The mentorship and insights he experienced deeply influenced Martin, instilling in him a relentless drive to never settle and always strive for greater achievements.

In 2020, Martin’s return to the newly reimagined Quimby on 23rd marked his most cherished professional achievement, bringing his journey full circle. Facing a community of new residents unfamiliar with him, Martin embraced the challenge of earning their trust and forging new friendships. His efforts bore fruit, as he now knows around 90% of the residents by first name, from families and children catching the bus to government workers and Amazon employees. Martin’s deep connection with the community underscores his commitment and personal touch.

Beyond outstanding professional accomplishments, Martin celebrates profound blessings in his personal life after finding love with a former Dweck employee and starting a family. A fairy tale romance with his wife Darlene led to an enchanting Disney World wedding, then a magical honeymoon revelation of a new baby on the horizon.

The arrival of their newborn Jaxon aligned serendipitously with Quimby’s rebirth, filling Martin with renewed purpose. He beams describing racing home daily to embrace his son after empowering his team onsite, crediting Darlene’s partnership and Dweck’s generous paternity leave for balancing his dedication across domains. Today at Quimby Martin continues paying forward the kindness that catalyzed his own career by ushering his brother Jesus into a position at Dweck. (You can read all about the families working together at Dweck here.)

By pouring passion into uplifting individuals and communities, Martin Peña has woven himself into the fabric of Dweck Properties over more than a decade marked by tenacity, growth, and grace. His embodiment of the Dweck mission to treat each resident and team member like family – with empathy, support and care – makes Martin the steady heartbeat leading Quimby into its next chapter. We are grateful for his loyalty in spearheading Dweck’s communities forward as places where people, purpose and potential can all thrive as one.