As the first rays of 2025 dawn on the horizon, Dweck Properties stands at a remarkable inflection point – one that speaks volumes about not just where we’ve been, but where we’re headed. In this dynamic real estate landscape, Dweck continues to grow stronger, more unified, and more committed than ever to its foundational belief that people – employees, residents, and partners – come first.

“The last couple of years have been transformative,” reflects Yolanda Lee, SVP and Corporate Controller, her voice carrying both pride and conviction. “We’re super proud of how we’ve stayed true to our path and our goals, making it through with flying colors.” This isn’t just about success – it’s a testament to a deeper truth that has guided Dweck through 2024: when opportunities arise, you double down on your values.

This philosophy is reflected across Dweck’s entire portfolio. “Our properties are benefiting from the continual investments we have made over the past few years and the focus our teams place on caring for our residents”, shares Robert Vaughan, Chief Operating Officer. “The highest performance we are seeing across the board is a testament to our commitment to ongoing improvement and exceptional resident experience.”

This commitment to our values has led to groundbreaking initiatives like the Customer Service Pledge, a bold promise to residents that includes a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. It’s not just words on paper – it’s a commitment backed by action and accountability. 

Perhaps nothing better exemplifies Dweck’s dedication to excellence than the launch of the Dweck Academy. Beginning with an intensive customer service module that every team member must complete and pass, the academy represents our investment in developing exceptional professionals at every level. As 2025 unfolds, the academy will expand to include an industry-leading maintenance certification program, setting a new standard that no other company currently requires.

“It’s about enhancing people’s lives,” Yolanda Lee explains, her enthusiasm evident as she describes the program. “Some of the largest companies don’t have the learning and development programs that we have. We’re really changing people’s lives here – we’re making them better, not only for us but for themselves.”

This focus on personal and professional growth has created something magical within Dweck’s walls – a culture so tangible it stops visitors in their tracks. “There used to be a delivery person who came to the office who asked, ‘why is everyone smiling all the time?'” Jeffrey Mullins, SVP of Investor Relations recalls with a laugh. It’s a culture that drew Lizzie Rivera to join as SVP of Property Management in November 2024. “Coming in with fresh eyes, what strikes me is how tangible our culture is at every touchpoint,” she shares. “From the job posting to the website, from the reviews to the communities – you just want to hug everybody. We work hard, we play hard, we laugh hard.”

As we look toward 2025, the promise of what’s to come is palpable. “National Landing is transforming before our eyes, with new retail, amenities, and infrastructure fundamentally changing the neighborhood” says Robert Vaughan. Amazon’s growing presence and the completion of major projects signal the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our portfolio and our residents.

“We spent the last few years shaping this spectacular company with the very best people, effective processes, and a culture of care, like nowhere else,” reflects Mara Olguin, Chief Marketing Officer. “Our people have truly become our brand, expressing our values, our creativity, and our kindness. Always.”.  

This perspective is evident in everything we do, from our “Think Like an Owner” initiative that empowers team members to embrace an entrepreneurial mindset to our expanding community service programs and employee resource groups. As Kathy Murphy, Chief People Services Officer, notes, these are “little threads that connect us and make us see that we have many differences, but more importantly, more similarities.”

“We couldn’t have a better team in place to be successful in our coming year,” Jeffrey Mullins affirms. “We’re very proud of this company and very proud of the people we have here. It’s just an incredible group of people, and we can accomplish a lot with the group that we have.”

At Dweck Properties, we’ve learned that true success comes from embracing possibilities and seizing opportunities. It’s about creating a place where every team member feels valued, every resident feels at home, and every day brings new chances to demonstrate our commitment to excellence. As we step into 2025, we do so with the confidence that comes from knowing who we are and what we stand for. Here’s to another year of growing together, lifting each other up, and proving that when you put people first, everything else falls into place.