March NL issue 1 2020

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 1

Issue 1 | 2020 Opening doors to the future

The Platform: News and Highlights

By Tom Toomey, CEO, and Jerry Davis, President and COO

UDR’s business focus is to continue to be a leader in the multi- l Investing in and installing SmartHome technology
family industry. We believe your efforts, technology innovation
and excellent customer service will be the driving forces for our l Implementing Self-Guided Tours for prospects
continued success. Our goal will always be to create a great
place for our residents to live and for our associates to work. Phase Two will progress through the entire year of 2020 and
Through research and listening to our residents, we have come into 2021 and will include:
to realize that self-service and quick, reliable online access
is of utmost importance. As a result, we need to continue to l Developing an enhanced suite of self-service options for
invest in technologies that align with our customers’ wants current and future residents via online technology delivered
and needs and which will enhance their experience as well as through a Resident App
make UDR a better place to work for our associates. We refer
to this evolution as the Next Gen Operating Platform (called the l Creating a Self-Guided Touring App and customer
Platform). relationship management software called Sugar CRM

The Platform will enable associates, residents and future l Implementing these technologies for use by our residents
residents to engage with self-service technologies that will be and associates
interactive, efficient and easy to use. Through the Platform, our
associates will learn new ways to conduct our business, will l Utilizing Artificial Intelligence and Chatbot technology
be able to develop their customer service and problem-solving
skills, and will see expanded career growth. Phase Three is expected to launch in 2021 and will involve:

There are three Phases to the Platform: l Leveraging insight from Big Data to help us better analyze
our business, better price our apartments and operate our
Phase One was introduced in 2018 and is still in progress. communities more effectively
Many of you are familiar with the initiatives that focused on:
Over the years, UDR’s associates have proven to be adept
l Outsourcing and centralizing noncustomer-facing tasks at leading through a wide range of initiatives. We need you to
help us achieve success. We are committed to communicating

“Platform” continued on page 2

2 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

Cover Story

“Platform” continued from page 1 You’re All Invited to Contribute to
The Open Door
the timing of the Platform initiatives in an informative and
consistent manner to our associates and our residents. In We need stories and photos about what’s happening
addition, we will provide our associates with focused training
on new technologies, customer service and problem-solving. around UDR for our next issue. Please limit your photo
Stay tuned for further information as the Platform transformation
progresses. These are exciting times for UDR and our submissions to 5, and do not put them in collages.
associates.
We ask that all stories and photo captions include:
Thank you for all you do for UDR. In preparation for our All
Associate Call, which is scheduled on March 24 at 10:00 a.m. full names, job titles, and Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 1
Mountain Time, you can submit your questions and comments community names. (These
about the Platform to [email protected]. Comments and
questions will be addressed on the All Associate Call. We look may be edited for length as Issue 1 | 2020 Opening doors to the future
forward to hearing from you. needed.)
The Platform: News and HighlightsBy Tom Toomey, CEO, and Jerry Davis, President and COO
Around the Block
Please send your PtmaiitTopncsafUolnaaolahvnatodDmrhtenkrdceffoeRiostniesaiuuletnrye’UlmtgsxefiiumeznoichDvneb)dereoo.tddRusreolslteulsuhecsutasasitahnunrinietmotnrtcbedraynesoccesp.rweesulcstoaoWtilshsherdsfgf-tstoeireasoiact.echnpenmhnbOsuetlrcdeassvewuetlcNhirlirtc.iiieelosasesleAgvtteexttleoseiooaatrnvnavnalyeGhwciiligndocaowreaongeuennqnnrirslcktwtuwldiouOeeniaifciltffoulotlphfltokw,ohreueb,rworaeorrerttouayioeseurrutrset,lrhiiebnrnastcabeexeeaigbusdepcesldsaseePhedsttronoonriolloveaicttmoecosniciatnalnif,rloeadocigetcnwgrteeroaeesmefyserno’ts.eatiairwhni(ntWcsnccoaaaneutcawevhnoswgeeleletevresrsofteaeloscdolmratfrkoaietotu.omshrnlueteir- l Investing in and installing SmartHome technology
submissions to l Implementing Self-Guided Tours for prospects
[email protected]. iPnhtoas2e02T1waonwd iwll ipllriongcrleusdse:through the entire year of 2020 and
We’re eager to hear from
you. l tcDhuerrovrueegnlohtpaainnRgd eafusntiuderenenhtraeAnspcidpeednstsuivteiaoofnsleinlfe-steercvhicneoloopgtyiodneslivfoerred

l rCerleaatiotinngshaipSmelaf-nGaugiedmedenTtosuorifntwgaArpepcaanlleddcSusutgoamreCrRM

l Implementing these technologies for use by our residents
and associates
sbairTnkeeshtisselealiosrdba,cPelciaelnaatnitttvtsedofeostw,drowmeeilefivllfnwleiscglelieiolaeelapgnereetnnthxaawnpenbeaiidrltewnhcedauswaessesdastlyofyo-cmssctaoeiteraoreurtveesciscrseoee,g.nrrvrTtdeoeihucswcercihdotthnaeuo.onnguldthorsgpbtahiruenoessdbiPnltefhleuamasttutfs-orsw,erowmilllvi,lblinoegur
l Utilizing Artificial Intelligence and Chatbot technology
There are three Phases to the Platform: Phase Three is expected to launch in 2021 and will involve:
l coLouemrvebmruausgniniinteigesssin,msbiogerhtetteefrrfopfemriccteBivioegulyDr aatpaatrotmheenlptsuasnbdeottpeer raantealoyzuer
Phase One was introduced in 2018 and is still in progress. haOetvllpeeraudtshineagcyhtehiaerrovsue,gUshuDcaRcwe’ssidsae.sWsraoencgiaaerteeoscf hoinamitvimaetiiptvtreeodsv.etoWncetoonmbemeeduandyieocpuatttinog
Many of you are familiar with the initiatives that focused on:

l Outsourcing and centralizing noncustomer-facing tasks

“Platform” continued on page 2

Holiday Events @ Addison Apartments

By Lauren Adams, Sr. Community Director

Nothing Says ‘Happy Holidays’ Like Bingo Paper + Glue = Love

On Wednesday, December 18, 2019, Addison Apartments at Addison also hosted a Make a Card Party for approximately
the Park (TX) hosted Holiday Bingo. Approximately 20 resi- 20 residents on Tuesday, February 11, 2020, furnishing all
dents came to play the family-friendly game while eating pizza the trimmings to make beautiful Valentines that Cupid himself
and drinking hot chocolate on a cold winter evening. Resident would envy.
Services Coordinator Bonnie Reyes, who seasonally moon-
lights as Santa’s helper, called the numbers. The card-makers had fun getting to know each other and shar-
ing ideas as they unleashed their creativity to make perfect
cards for all the special loved ones in their lives.

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 3

Around the Block

Holidays Merry and Bright @ Food’s the Feature @ Domain
Ridgewood College Park

By Alejandra Sandoval, Resident Services Manager, Ridgewood and By Morgan Fatiu, Community Director
Eleven55Ripley
S’mores the Merrier

CD Eduardo Carcamo with LC Karla Nunez Sr. LCs Sandra Durbin and Miguel Bonilla with Morgan (center)

The Ridgewood (Silver Spring, MD) Team celebrated the holi- The team at Domain College Park (MD) hosted a holiday party
day season with over 60 residents at our annual Holiday Party on Friday December 6, 2019. Residents got to forget about final
in the club room on December, 13, 2019. Everyone had a blast exams in exchange for a few hours of fun with great food and
eating, dancing and mingling with new friends. music.

We served turkey in creamy gravy sauce and for dessert had a
s’mores bar featuring different chocolate options.

It was great to catch up with what our residents have been doing
and to show our appreciation that they chose our community as
their home. We look forward to more great events in the new year.

Students Love Mac ‘n’ Cheese

The Open Door UDR, Inc. Employee Newsletter The team at Domain College Park (MD) threw another hit
Issue 1, 2020 event for our amazing residents as they geared up for their first
www.udr.com day back to class after the holiday break. We made sure they
didn’t leave home without a full stomach and just hope they
The Open Door is published by UDR, Inc. didn’t fall asleep later in class.
1745 Shea Center Drive, Ste. 200
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Chef Alvin worked hard to make made-to-order mac and cheese
creations using various toppings and proteins the diners chose
to create their own unique bowl of pasta. The food was delicious
and a great time was had by all.

4 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020 Santa Never Visits Presidential
Greens Empty-Handed
Around the Block
By Crystal Bond, District Manager, DC/MD/VA
Spirit Defined @ 388 Beale

By Amy Siegel, Resident Service Administrator, 388 Beale

Computer Systems
Analyst Daniel Hinton,
a.k.a. Santa, makes a
child’s Christmas
special

Enjoying the UDR Holiday Party at the During the holidays, Jai Meiers
Burlingame Hilton L-R: RSM Lorri Wolf, offered “Aloha Spirit” in the lobby
CM Kayla Altenloh, former RM Tiffany
Byrd and Sr. CD Tensaye Alemayehu

During the holiday season at Spirit: Each year, Presidential Greens (Alexandria, VA) teams up
388 Beale (San Francisco) with Toys for Tots on Community Service Days. In return, the
community is able host a resident holiday event that includes
spirits ran high thanks to con- The nonphysical part toys for every child.
nections of the heart, the soul. of a person which is The Annual Holiday Party on December 20, 2019, featured
delicious refreshments and treats handed out by Santa’s elves.
Spirit takes place at a deep the seat of emotions The children had an opportunity to choose a toy and have their
picture taken with Santa. Elvis also stopped by to liven up the
level and permeates every and character; the festivities.
cell. People do not always soul. The kids look forward to this event every year as much as we
know what’s moving them, do. Huge thanks go to all of our helpers who make it a success.
We couldn’t do it without you!
but they are compelled to go
Santa’s Elves L-R: LC Stephanie Rodriguez, CD Nellie
where the light is, where the Quinones, ACD Juan Campo-Vega and Sr. LC Iris Arias

joy is, where the heart takes them. Holidays are filled with spirit

because they resonate with people on a visceral level. Greetings

linger long after the hello, the hug, the wish for “Happy Holidays

and a Merry Christmas.”

That’s spirit. Spirit lives in the well from which invisible resources
spring, the heart dances, the smile is broad, the laughter is full-
bodied, the eyes twinkle and the brain is quiet of thought. It’s the
feeling that sails you into the night and has you floating on air.

You are in great spirits. Why? Someone with that hug, that
greeting, that warmth, touched your soul in a way you had no
idea your soul could be touched.

We’re so very fortunate to be in a community with residents and
staff who readily share themselves. That’s a rare and beautiful
thing in some places, but not here. It takes some form every
single day, this community, this coming together, this sharing of
a living space that is filled with spirit.

Photos exemplify the spirit of the wonderful people I have the
great pleasure of calling my colleagues. Look at those faces,
those smiles, that beam of light. That is spirit. Are you feeling it?
I hope so.

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 5

Around the Block Jasmine Henry Welcomes a
New Family Member
Fall Events @ the Views
By Ann Vu, District Coordinator, Area 8
By Stephanie Lamar, Community Director, Andover House

Hosting a Special Happy Hour

Capitol View (DC) hosted
a Mixology class on Novem-
ber 14, 2019, where Luxe-
Giving showed residents
how to make and taste
wonderful fall cocktails.

Showing the Love with Cupcakes Resident Services Manager Jasmine Henry
at Harbor at Mesa Verde (Costa Mesa, CA),
On the first Monday of gave birth to her son, Ezra James Henry, in
every month, a resident of December. We can’t wait for Ezra to follow in
a View (DC) who follows his mom’s footsteps one day and become a
us on Instagram is selected Game Changer in the UDR family.
to receive a batch of
Georgetown Cupcakes. This
was our December winner.
It’s a small gesture that
helps us promote our social
media presence and shows
our residents how much we
appreciate them.

Dominion Middle Ridge Celebrates Holidays with Residents

By Lorsheia Sor, Sr. Leasing Consultant, Dominion Middle Ridge

At our annual Holiday Part in December, Dominion Middle
Ridge (Woodbridge, VA) residents loved our signature holiday
drink, the Mistletoe Martini. In addition to enjoying some fine re-
freshments, they also had an opportunity to participate in a raffle,
and each resident and child received a gift.

Thanks go to everybody on our team who pitched in to make the
evening a success — CD Tyler Wiest, LCs Kiarra Robinson
and Rebecca Chinn-Macklin,
and ST Eufracio Vanegas.

And last but not least, thank
you to my Husband of the Year
2019, Montana Sor, who made
sure everyone was greeted at
the door, helped with serving
and even stayed to clean up.

6 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

Around the Block Vitruvian West Hosts Wine & Cheese Social

Happenings @ Vitruvian By Lisa Pirlot, Leasing Consultant

Nobody Does Holiday Lights Like Vitruvian Park
By Jessica Zazzara, Event Coordinator, Vitruvian West

On Saturday, December 7, 2019, approximately 7,500 people On Thursday, February 20, Vitruvian West hosted a Wine &
turned out at Vitruvian Park (Addison, TX) to see us flip the Cheese Social. This appreciation event attended by about 30
switch on the stunning phenomenon known in these parts as residents was the perfect opportunity for neighbors to socialize
Vitruvian Lights. and enjoy an assortment of wines, cheeses, meats and sweet
treats.
Our holiday light spectacular ran for 33 days and featured more
than one million LED lights that served as a beautiful backdrop
for two special events we hosted.

Residents and visitors enjoyed live bands performing their favor-
ite holiday songs, took photographs with Santa, feasted on the
offerings from local food trucks, and just enjoyed the season in
the kaleidoscopic holiday wonderland we created.

UDR Extras

Dallas Associates Attend Apartment Association Conference

By Lauren Adams, Sr. Community Director, Addison Apartments
at the Park

On Thursday, January 16, the Apartment Association
of Greater Dallas hosted its Annual Education
Conference. Several of our leaders attended to
continue gaining industry knowledge while networking
with peers.

The keynote speakers were Robyn Benincasa, an
Adventure Racer, and Missy Payne, a former finalist
on Survivor. They opened and closed the conference
by linking their experiences with igniting their teams
and being strong leaders to our multi-family industry.

Front to back, L-R: Sr. CD Wesley Dowden, CD Billy Kirk, RD Chris Becker,
DM Brianna Kelley, Lauren and District SM Shane Yarbrough

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 7

UDR at Play

Escaping Together is Fun!

By Olga Kononova, Community Director, 3033 Wilshire

Front L-R: Felice Brown, Ruben Jauregui and On December 19, 2019, our RM Ann the great memories we’ll always have of
Stefanie Frost. Back, on sofa: Jason McIllwain, Ann Villella celebrated the holidays with CDs being trapped together, right?
Villella and Olga Stefanie Frost (OLiVE DTLA), Jason
McIllwain (Vision on Wilshire) and me, Over dinner, we all got to spend some
all from Los Angeles, and CDs Ruben leisurely time with Ann, getting to know
Jauregui (Westerly on Lincoln) and each other better and strengthening our
Felice Brown (Jefferson and Tierra Del relationships.
Rey) from Marina Del Ray. We enjoyed
an evening at the Escape Room Hotel, I left with the warm feeling that I work in
followed by dinner at Mama’s Shelter a great place, with great people. It made
Restaurant. me want to be even better because I
know I’m working with a leader who’s will-
It was our first time in an escape room, ing to invest her time and knowledge to
and we truly showed teamwork by try- help my growth.
ing everything we could to escape. We
made it to the finish line, but fell short by Ann has created a wonderful team of
five minutes in regaining our freedom. CDs who support each other in striving
However, the real victories are what we for success. Our night out together reaf-
learned from brainstorming together, and firmed it. Thank you, UDR, for making it
possible.

UDR Families Celebrate in Austin Hobbs Region Decks Out for
the Holidays
By Chelsea Estes, CAM, Community Director, Barton Creek Landing
By Lorsheia Sor, Sr. Leasing Consultant, Dominion Middle Ridge

Front L-R: Ash Mobley, Arthur Monrial, Amberly Crowell and Jennifer Hoff. L-R: LC Rebecca Chinn-Macklin (Dominion Lake Ridge ), LC Kiarra Robinson
Back: Ambrose Gitachu, Shane Yarbrough, Lisa Stiefel, Sidney Garcia, Mario (Dominion Middle Ridge), Regional Coordinator Nancy Amaya, LC Natasia
Orozco, Karissa Nevel, Erasto Provisor, Dominique Anderson, Doug Smith, Erich Martin (Wellington Place at Olde Town) and Lorsheia
Miller, Sarah Albright and Jeff Vogt
The Hobbs Region Holiday Party was held in The Sunset Room
On December 11, 2019, Area 4 Steifel Region associates and by Wolfgang Puck at National Harbor, Maryland, on December
their families celebrated the holidays with a festive get-together 12, 2019. The evening had a Casino theme.
at Trudy’s Restaurant. They enjoyed a gift exchange, Mexican
food and, most importantly — queso! Thank you, UDR, for mak- It was a great opportunity to mingle with all of our associates and
ing it possible. to meet some of them for the first time. The memorable night
was full of laughter, eating, dancing, posing for photo ops, and
playing games for prizes.

8 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

UDR at Play

Area 4/Dallas Associates Party for the Holidays

By Jessica Zazzara, Event Coordinator, Vitruvian West
The UDR Area 4/Dallas Team celebrated 2019 during our annual
Associate Holiday Party on December 12, 2019, at Addison
Conference Centre. About 70 people attended, including many
associates’ significant others, since this was our opportunity to
thank our families for their continued support throughout the year.
Everyone enjoyed dinner, a holiday-themed photo booth,
conversations with colleagues, and the chance to take home
fantastic raffle prizes. Team Mavericks bid farewell to 2019 and
look forward to a prosperous 2020!

Hobbs Region Team Escapes
for Fun

By Lorsheia Sor, Sr. Leasing Consultant,
Dominion Middle Ridge
Associates in the Hobbs Region joined forces at Escape Room
Manassas. We had a great time as a team putting our minds
together to escape. It’s an adventure we highly recommend.

The Pod That Plays Together…

By Stephanie Lamar, Community Director, Andover House

The DC Pod had a great day of team-building on November
1, 2019, enjoying amazing food and bowling.

L-R: LC Theresa Ankrha, Sr. SM Jorge Saurez, ST Luis Giron, RSM Justen
Dutcher, Sr. ST Jason Currington, Sr. LC Latrice Belton, CD Kristen Lewis,
ST Melvin Wells, Sr. CD Gamze Blakey, ST Lawrence Davin, LC Sharmin
Esmail and Sr. Concierge Courtney Lilliston

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 9

UDR at Play

Corporate Office Celebrates the Holidays

By Carole Pantoja, Facility Specialist

Associates at the Corporate Office closed out 2019 with a fan-
tastic time at the annual Holiday Party on December 13, 2019.
A jolly man in a red suit joined in on the festivities at the Denver
Marriott, and we told him we have been good all year!

While it was not a white Christmas in the Denver area, the party
was still a winter wonderland with over 200 in attendance. As-
sociates enjoyed a luncheon buffet and the opportunity to view
an expansive photo loop that streamed memorable pictures
from 2019 events, including December’s Community Service
Days.

From Tom Toomey’s warm welcome to Jerry Davis spinning
the brass raffle drum, everyone had a great time.

Front L-R: Manager HRIS Tammie Parcells, Santa and EA HR Katie McLean.
Back: VP Talent Carla Anthony, Learning System Analyst/Architect Aixia
Zhang, Sr. Data Administrator Janette Peterson, Director Benefits/Payroll Heidi
Blashaw, Lisa Bye, Toni Pilone, Mark Ceriani, HR Administrator Brock McRea,
SVP Organizational Development and Engagement Mari Akers and Corporate
Recruiter Kelly Kissner

L-R: Area Marketing Specialist Brian Thompson, Sr. Manager Marketing Ashley
Boyd, Area Marketing Manager Stacy Hale, Director Interactive Marketing
Chelsea Hoffman, Content Coordinator Madison Wittman, Creative Media
Manager Katie Hudson, Manager Interactive Marketing Amy Kainer and
Interactive Marketing Specialist Karin Andersen

Facility Manager Myra Martinez with President and COO Jerry Davis

Santa with President and COO Jerry Davis and CEO Tom Toomey Property Accountants Julia Schmidt and Julie Babcock with Sr. Accountant
JV Samantha Burke (center)

10 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

HR Corner

Distracted Driving: Technologies Can Reduce Cellphone Use

The federal government reports that more than 3,000 people are Check the battery life of the cellphone blocker. Check the default
killed on U.S. roads every year in distracted driving crashes. settings for capability to adjust settings to make them stronger,
and find out how long these settings keep your phone disabled if
In a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration survey, you are not moving.
20% of drivers 18–20 said texting does not affect their driving,
and nearly 30% of drivers 21–34 said texting has no impact. Nearly all products work with Android devices, but some may not
Yet when asked as passengers how they would feel about work with Apple products.
different situations, about 90% of respondents considered a
driver sending text messages or emails, or reading emails or text Here are some companies to research while shopping for
messages, as very unsafe. distracted driving technology solutions:

Cellphone use is a common driver distraction, but technology l Aegis Mobility
exists that could prevent many crashes and save thousands of l AT&T
lives. Cellphone-blocking apps and devices can help drivers l Drivesafe.ly
stay focused on driving by preventing ingoing or outgoing calls, l drivewithsentinel
texting or accessing the internet. l goSafeRide
l Groove
Prepare for Safe Driving l Lifesaver
l Norcell Technologies
Do you do the following steps before you drive? If not, you could l Sprint
be a member of the Distracted Driving Club. Remember to do the l T-Mobile
following before you start driving: l Truce Software
l txtBlocker
l Program your GPS l Verizon

l Finish reading or sending texts and emails Sources: NSC and NHTSA.

l Turn off your phone and put it in the glove compartment,
trunk or your bag

Safety While On the Road

While you drive, pledge to be attentive. Do not use voice
commands with your phone or dashboard touchscreen. Hands-
free systems are just as distracting as handheld.

On longer drives, schedule breaks to park safely and take calls or
respond to messages. Do not call or text someone if you know
they are driving. Let social media wait. No update, tweet or video
is worth a life.

Blocking apps for smartphones are available from wireless
services and technology companies. You can also install a device
in your vehicle to put a “geofence” or virtual barrier around the
driver to prohibit calls or texts while the vehicle is moving. (In the
event of emergencies, keep in mind that some blocking devices
may override attempts to make 911 calls.)

Advanced systems can block audio features and track speed
and sudden stops. Many apps send texts or email helpful
notifications for parents of teen drivers.

When shopping for a blocking device, do your homework.
Systems with the most safety benefits block all handheld and
hands-free phone use. The best systems block incoming and
outgoing phone calls, texting, social media and internet access.

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 11

HR Corner

Upcoming Training: Pivotal Discussions

Learning and Development has begun
filming on their latest in-person training:
Pivotal Discussions. The course will
provide the skills, tools and resources you
need to bring about successful outcomes
from difficult discussions with residents. It
is a one-day facilitated course that will roll
out in 2020.

A pivotal discussion occurs when
the parties involved have differing
opinions, intense feelings or significant
consequences resulting from the
outcome.

Brainstormin’

Getting Creative with SmartHome Ideas

By Ann Vu, District Coordinator

On December 12, 2019, at
our annual event at Knott’s
Berry Farm, Area 8 teams
were given a bag of random
items (including Legos, binder
clips, PVC pipes and CDs) and
asked to create the newest idea for Smart Home technology.
Each team’s representative then pitched their idea to Area 8’s
“Shark” investors.

The winner was “The Super Toilet.” It’s self-plunging, leak-
detecting and self-cleaning.

I think we may be onto something big!

12 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

Community Connections

Highlights: Denver Corporate Office Volunteer Days

By Kenna Macky, Facility Specialist and Open Door Reporter
This year, I coordinated our Volunteer Days with the theme
“Make a Difference.” We displayed a poster in the lobby to track
which departments got the most participation. Each associate
who signed up got a Make a Difference sticker with their name
on it placed on the poster. A candy cane served as a gauge to
measure participation as it rose.

Joe Fisher and Warren
Troupe each achieved
100% participation
from their departments.
Congratulations!

“We broke UDR records this holiday season in our charitable Sr. Property Accountant Heather Spanarella, Sr. Benefits Analytical
giving and volunteering. More Angels were distributed this year, Administrator Donna Chaffee, Santa, Property Accounting Manager Emily
70 Packs of Hope were filled with amazing and much-needed Arnold, Property Accountant Julia Schmidt, Director of Internal Audit Eric
gifts for low-income and homeless children and almost 90% of Liggett and Jill Mestas
our awesome Denver associates participated in Volunteer Days
on December 4 and 11.” “It was so nice catching up. Loved sharing the day and the
conversations. The Library Stories with Santa event was a fun
(Packs of Hope partners with Colorado Social Services agencies way to help out the community.”
to provide backpacks of essential clothing and other items for
children entering foster care.) —Jill Mestas, Data and Compensation Supervisor

—Mari Akers, SVP Organizational Development and “We helped with the
Engagement Sock Drive to break
the Guinness Book’s
world record for sock
collection. By the time we
left, they had collected
approximately 32,000,
which far surpassed their
goal.”

—Dannie McCullough,
Sr. Marketing Associate,
Steele Creek

Sr. ST Carlos Cantu and
Dannie

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 13

Community Connections

Operations Support Analyst Kirk Curtiss, Payroll Administrator Tiffiny Sr. Manager Employee Relations Andrea Kortz, Facility Specialist Carole
Curtiss, Guest Services Coordinator Michael Kay, Furnished Housing Team Pantoja, IT Project Manager Trina Oyloe, Development Manager Jeremy
Lead Jerilyn Mahoney, Sales Manager Gavan Rathje and Corporate Rental Allen and Sr. MDM Software Developer Ken Dold
Administrative Coordinator Tiffany Schryver
“Thank you all so much for your support with the YMCA
“Just wanted to share the feedback I received regarding Christmas celebration! The gifts you helped wrap will really
your volunteer group who helped out at Zuma’s Horse make a huge difference to children in our community, and the
Rescue. My staff could not stop raving about their energy and decorating was beautiful. Michelle let me know that lots of
professionalism. You truly have some wonderful people.” members have complimented the Christmas tree and garland,
and that the tree is still standing straight!”
—Annie, Zuma’s Rescue Ranch Volunteer Coordinator
—Robyn, YMCA Volunteer Director

Dallas Construction and AQ Aument Region Gives Back
Spruces Up American Legion Post
By Stephanie Lamar, Community Director, Andover House
By Debora Rollman, Sr. Project Manager-Integration
During the month of November, the Aument Region collected
On December 11, 2019, a team of UDR volunteers from the donations from each property for Nourish Now and Martha’s
Dallas area volunteered at American Legion Post 597 to paint the Table to provide clothing and food to families in need in the
ceiling, fix outdoor gates and repair cabinets and counters under Metro DC area.
the supervision of the American Legion post commander and
board members. We collected over 30 lbs. of
food and 40 bags of clothing.
L-R: PM Construction On November 4 we also
Brian Richardson, VP volunteered at the Nourish
Construction Deiadra Now facility to organize meals
Burns, Contract Admin- to be distributed.
istrator Irene Fuentes,
Debora and PM Asset
Quality Mark Campbell

14 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

Community Connections

Tennyson Center volunteers: SVP Asset Management Harry Alcock, American Cancer Society volunteers: Facility Specialist Kenna Macky, JV &
Centralized Sales Specialists Joe Jimenez and Nick Lawson, Executive Property Accountant Janna Cline, Manager Dev/Fixed Asset Accountant Kari
Assistant Susan Rose, VP Treasurer Abe Claude, (kneeling) Casualty Flauding, Sr. Accountant JV Samantha Burke, JV & Transactions Accountant
Claims Examiner Dionne LeBeau. Not shown: SVP General Counsel Alysha Deaver, Director of Corporate Accounting Ashley Pool, Sr. Data Admin-
David Thatcher istrator Jan Peterson, Instructional Designer Rhianna Ulrich, AP Specialist I
Sabrina Banks, AP Specialist II Denelle Gurule and Manager Property Account-
ing Kaitlin Zangle

Ronald McDonald House volunteers: Centralized Sales Specialist Travis Special Olympics volunteers: Interactive Marketing Specialist Karin Andersen,
Systma, SVP Redevelopment Bob McCullough, Centralized Sales Special- Director IT Corporate Systems Kim Garfield, Director of Interactive Marketing
ist Jennifer Potts, AP Specialist II Shannon Rivera, Sr. Director Development Chelsea Hoffman, Web Designer Becca Ahlf, Sr. Creative Services Producer
Tizzie Likovich, Director Development Erik Steiner and Sr. Director Real Estate Katie Hudson, Content Coordinator Madison Wittman and Payroll Supervisor
Transactions Ryan Werner Lisa Bye

Urban Peak volunteers:
Facilities Manager Myra
Martinez, Resident
Renewals Specialist
Jennifer Pezdirtz and
Centralized Sales Spe-
cialist Zach Block

Food Bank Rockies volunteers: VP Redevelopment Buddy Scott, SVP Property
Operations Mike Lacy, Centralized Sales Specialist Irvin Kenney, President and
COO Jerry Davis, VP-IT Josh Gampp and Executive Assistant Jena Bonser

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 15

Community Connections

Feeding Those in Need in Aiding the Homeless in Boston
Orange County
By Susan Rose, Executive Assistant, Development and Construction
UDR teams from Eight 80 Newport Beach spent their Volunteer
Day on December 11, 2019, with the Second Harvest Food UDR associates in the Boston area volunteered on December
Bank of Orange County, helping out in the food distribution 4, 2019, at the Pine Street Inn, the largest homeless services
center in Irvine. The group was joined by the West Coast’s provider in New England, helping nearly 2,000 men and women
Senior Construction Manager Brian Lake and Sr. Director of each day. The group assisted in the kitchen with food preparation.
Development John Readey.

Second Harvest serves 290,000 people throughout Orange
County, so there was plenty of work to go around. The volunteers
helped to sort and package fresh produce, nonperishable food
and items brought in from holiday food drives.

Front L-R: Sr. LC Amanda Medeiros (Garrison Square), Sr. Analyst Alex Ong
(Boston Development Office) and GM Matt Clickman (345 Harrison). Back: Asst.
Project Manager Joseph Lemley (Boston Dev.), Resident Service Specialist
Dani Lazarz (345 Harrison), CD Autumn Gillette (100 Pier 4), Director Chris
Spendley, Sr. Analyst Kevin Murt, Sr. Construction Manager Greg Demetrius
(all Boston Dev.) and ACD Katie Steck (345 Harrison). Not shown: CD Kelly
Wollinger (Inwood West)

Hobbs Region Helps to Distribute Food

By Lorsheia Sor, Sr. Marketing Associate, Dominion Middle Ridge

On December 4, 2019, UDR teams from Courts at Dulles
(Herdon, VA); Del Ray Tower and Newport Village (Alexandria);
Dominion Lake Ridge, Dominion Middle Ridge and Signal Hill
(Woodbridge); and Wellington Place at Olde Town (Manassas)
went to the D.C. Food Bank to volunteer.

We helped to load food from storage into boxes we sealed and
sent to local churches and shelters, where they can distribute it
to families in need.

Community Service Day is a great cause that encourages UDR
associates to step away from their desks and daily tasks and
spread goodness in animal shelters, schools, food pantries,
children’s charities, veterans’ organizations, parks, hospitals
and more. Teams in the Hobbs Region are proud to be annual
participants.

16 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

Community Connections

Corporate Volunteers Help When Volunteer Day with Santa at the
Santa Drops By YMCA

By Jill Mestas, Data and Compensation Supervisor, HRIS/ By David Eldridge, Sr. HR Analyst
Compensation/Human Resources

What could bring more happiness and smiles to children and L-R: Sr. Manager IT Development Greg Fullerton, Project Manager Technical III
their families than a morning of coloring and crafts, photos and Keith Puckett, David, Kelly Recruiter Kissner and Sr. Director Acquisitions Dan
holiday songs? Campbell

How about the awe, wonder and excitement of meeting Santa Our team visited the Metropolitan Denver YMCA on December
Claus himself! Now add to the mix the opportunity to spend 4, 2019, to spread some holiday cheer. Greg Fullerton had the
quality time with the “Big Guy in Red” while enjoying candy honor of carrying Santa’s chair from room to room while we took
canes, cookies and the opportunity to make new friends. FUN! the storybook and sleigh bells around, handing out candy canes
to all the kids Santa visited.
Our team of six from various corporate departments volunteered
on December 4, 2019, at the local library to host a community Channel 7 also showed up and did a story on how Santa
holiday event. We managed registration and provided warm and changed his health by working out at the YMCA. I must say,
friendly welcomes. We led the creative craft activities and served Santa was looking pretty buff.
refreshments. We took photographs with silly holiday props.
We were Santa’s helpers in shepherding the many children who YMCA followed up with this note:
waited their turn to share gift wishes.
Thank you all so much for
Santa would appreciate that we are happy to report the event your support with the YMCA
was a huge success. It was quite memorable for all, whether a Christmas celebration! Santa
first-time believer or a veteran of the holiday legend. let me know that you all were
the best elves he has ever had!
I have heard that the filming
they did will appear on 7 News
sometime next week, so keep
an eye out.

Thank you so much,
Robyn Hills
Volunteer Director
YMCA of Metropolitan Denver

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 17

Community Connections

Richmond Area Teams Deliver Front L-R: CD Kadie Sauer (Legacy), Sr. Project Coordinator Constance Kenney
Baskets of Cheer (Corporate), RSM Amy Sibley and LC Heather Miller (both Legacy) and CDs Bri-
an Crookshank (Gayton Pointe) and Carter Severson (Carriage Homes). Back:
By Cheryl Martin, Community Director, Waterside at Ironbridge Painter Jerome Carter and LC William Young (Waterside), SM Chris Hummel
(Gayton Pointe), Make-Ready Specialist Jonathan Smith (Legacy), LC Teresa
The Teams at Waterside at Ironbridge (Chester, VA), Carriage Fitzgerald (Gayton Pointe), Painter Russell “Butch” Harris (Carriage Homes), LC
Homes at Wyndham (Glen Allen), Gayton Pointe Townhomes Katherine Hughitt (Legacy), former SM Richard Taylor, CD Cheryl Martin and ST
and Legacy at Mayland (Richmond) had the pleasure of Ronnie Ritt (all Waterside) and ST Daniel Couch (Legacy)
volunteering to deliver Baskets of Cheer to isolated older adults.

On December 11, 2019, we volunteered with Family Lifeline to
aid their generous efforts to make the holidays a bit merrier for
older adults in the Richmond area. One of the recipients said,
“If it wasn’t for Family Lifeline’s Basket of Cheer, I wouldn’t have
anything under the tree.”

It was our pleasure to split up into teams for a morning of
delivering baskets and spending time to visit and chat with the
recipients. It’s an amazing feeling to know that you have brought
joy into someone’s day.

Providing Nourishment to Those in Need

By Crystal Bond, District Manager, MD/DC/VA

L-R: Sr. CD Morgan Fatiu, Sr. CD Detra Clark, Crystal, BM KP Powers and Sales L-R: SM Luis Martinez, Sr. SM Hoclin Diaz, CD Kristen Lewis and SM Wander
Manager Veronica Lundy (man in background a helper) Roa-Pena

On December 4, 2019, the Aument Region teamed up with identified, and donations of food are recovered and redistributed
Nourish Now for our Community Service Day. Nourish Now is a through our network.
nonprofit food bank, specializing in food recovery and providing
donations from grocers, caterers, restaurants, bakeries and other As a region, we were able collect and donate 1,800 pounds of
food donors for the benefit of children, families and the elderly, food. Coming together as a group to help others has been very
as well as shelters, food pantries and other organizations working impactful and we can’t wait to do it again!
to end hunger. Through their programs, viable food partners are

18 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

Community Connections

Area 8 Loves to Volunteer!

By Ann Vu, District Coordinator
In December 2019, our Area 8 teams sorted, counted and
packed donations at food banks in Los Angeles and Orange
County, and our Inland Empire Teams baked over 1,300 cookies.
We love giving back to our communities and we have fun at the
same time!.

Stiefel District Team Helps Feed
Central Texas

By Chelsea Estes, CAM, Community Director, Barton Creek Landing

On December 10, 2019, Team UDR Austin got a behind-the-
scenes look at how donated food gets from the community to
Central Texans in need. Associates from Lisa Stiefel’s region
spent the day inspecting, sorting, cleaning, boxing and preparing
donations for distribution at Central Texas Food Bank. They
helped provide 4,833 meals.

Front L-R: Sarah Albright, Sidney Zipp Garcia, Amberly Crowell, Chelsea, Jenni-
fer Hoff and Dominque Anderson. Middle: Richar Santiesteban, Mario Mancillan,
Victoria Sullivan, Lisa Stiefel and Karissa Nevel. Back: Ash Mobley, Jeff Vogt,
Ken Alexander, Doug Smith, Norman Kinzer, Erich Miller, Ambrose Gitachu and
Arthur Monrial

L-R Jeff Vogt, Ken Alexander and Erasto Provisor

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 19

Community Connections

Area 4/Dallas Team Feeds Children
in Need

By Debora Rollman, Sr. Project Manager-Integration

On Wednesday, December 4, 2019, 30 associates from Area 4/
Dallas chose to fight hunger with Feed My Starving Children.
The group hand-packed meals specifically formulated for
undernourished children. FMSC meals are donated and
distributed every day in schools, orphanages, clinics and feeding
programs to deliver hope worldwide

The Winner is…

Signal Hill Wins Hobbs Region L-R: SM Jose Cruz, ST Carlos Molina, CD Wendy Fentem, LC Jen Uritta, Scott,
Self-Guided Tours Contest DC Nancy Amaya, AD Louis Kovalsky, MS Rose Roberts, RSM David Clarke and
ST David Lopez
By Scott Hobbs, Regional Manager, Metro DC
Kristen Nicholson and Director of Sale Initiatives Christine
Participating in our Self-Guided Tour Contest gave each of the Carter, who helped us with judging responsibilities.
teams at all our sites in the Metro DC region an opportunity to
exercise new marketing skills.

The challenge was for each team to show off their most
creative ideas for incorporating SGTs into 100% of their tours
without affecting their ability to close deals. It’s a strategy that
has resulted in huge benefits across the board.

The Signal Hill Team (Woodbridge, VA) was one of the first over
a year ago to use SGTs in our region, and they were declared
the contest winners. Their prize was a special lunch with our
Area Director Louis Kovalsky.

We appreciate the assistance of VP of Sales and Revenue

Success

First, Philadelphia – Next, Boston

By Susan Rose, Executive Assistant, Development and Construction

Emblematic of the competitiveness and teamwork of the UDR Kevin and Eric with Eric’s wife Lauren
Investments Team, Project Manager Eric Stout in Virginia and
Sr. Analyst Kevin Murt in the Boston Development Office joined
forces for a great showing at the 2019 Philadelphia Marathon on
November 24, 2019.

Eric and his wife Lauren drove to Philly from Alexandria, enduring
cold and wet weather to cheer and support Kevin in his first
marathon. With their encouragement, Kevin finished in less than
three hours and qualified for next year’s Boston Marathon.

20 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

Success

2019 Certified Manager Program (CMP) Graduates

Congratulations to these associates who completed all the Special acknowledgement goes to Paul Schindler and Cherron
required training to achieve their Certified Manager Program Diggs for providing the required classroom training, mentoring
(CMP) Certification. In 2019, we had 43 graduates from 14 and guidance throughout the program. In addition, appreciation
districts. It was a remarkable year and set a new record for CMP, goes to the ADs and RMs for supporting their associates’
up from 33 graduates in 2018. involvement in CMP.

UDR is so pleased to have this group of associates among Did you know that we have around 83% retention with our CMP
the ranks of CMP graduates. This is a great commitment to graduates? This is significant and supports having the program
professional development. and encouraging participation.

CMP 2019 Graduates

Area 1 (14 Graduates)

Name Title District Property

Morgan Fatiu Sr. Community Director Aument Domain College Park

DeAndre Henderson Sr. Assistant Community Director Aument 1200 East West

Kristine Powers Business Manager Aument Ridgewood I

Lisa Cucinella Community Director Collins 21 Chelsea

Ryan Michalak Assistant Community Director Collins 808 Columbus Square

Amera Ellmore Community Director Kennedy Sullivan Place

Heather Rubenstein Sr. Business Manager Kennedy Delancey at Shirlington

Josh Vandermeer Community Director Kennedy The Whitmore

Bernard Carey Sales Manager Hobbs Newport Village

Shelley Chey Community Director Hobbs Newport Village

David Clarke Resident Services Manager Hobbs Signal Hill

Jose Cruz Service Manager Hobbs Signal Hill

Daniel Flores Service Manager Hobbs Dominion Lake Ridge

Mike Johnson Service Manager Hobbs Dominion Middle Ridge

Area 3 (15 Graduates) Lead Service Manager Benoit 345 Harrison
Community Director Benoit Lodge at Ames Pond
Chad Davis Lead Service Manager Benoit Inwood West
Jayme Haley Sr. Assistant Community Director Benoit 345 Harrison
Nemanja Nikic Resident Services Manager Benoit Currents on the Charles
Katie Steck Community Director Benoit Inwood West
Andrew Tescione Service Manager Brewer Carriage Homes at Wyndham
Kelly Wollinger
Jason Harless

Success Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 21

Area 3 (15 Graduates) (continued) Hickory Run
20 Lambourne
Hillary Woods Assistant Community Director Brewer Lodge at Foxborough
Taylor Towson Promenade
Kristina George Community Director Taylor Legacy at Mayland
Taylor Ridge at Blue Hills
Jessica Lee Business Manager Taylor Towson Promenade
Taylor Calvert’s Walk
Allison Parrish Community Director Taylor
Taylor Addison Apartments at The Park I
Amy Sibley Resident Services Manager thirty377
Becker Savoye
Jonathan Stone Service Manager Becker Regatta Shores
Becker Lakeline Villas
Buddy Thomas Service Manager Starks Riverbridge Reserve Park
Stiefel
Missa Torres Community Director Stiefel The Hawthorne
The Kennedy Building
Area 4 (6 Graduates) Service Manager Peterson 388 Beale
Service Manager Peterson 388 Beale
Jaime Cano District Service Manager Johnston Highlands of Marin
Carlos Padilla Assistant Community Director Johnston Channel Mission Bay
Shane Yarbrough Resident Services Manager Johnston Ashton Bellevue
Marcus Massey Community Director Johnston
Sarah Albright Long OLiVE DTLA
Lauren Lowe
Villella
Area 7 (7 Graduates) Business Manager
Community Manager
Rachel Beesley Sr. Community Director
Jane Sol Community Manager
Tensaye Alemayehu Sr. Community Director
Kayla Altenloh Sales Manager
Tran Banh Community Director
Lawrence David
Lindsay Demmel

Area 8 (1 Graduate) Service Manager

Jose Zelaya

Congratulations to these associates who completed all the required
training to achieve their Certified Manager Program.

22 The OPEN DOOR Issue 1 l 2020

Outtakes

Issue 15 l 202109 www.udr.com 23

Outtakes

2244 TThhee OOPPEENN DDOOOORR IIssssuuee 11 ll 22002200

Outtakes

Issue 1 l 2020 www.udr.com 25

Outtakes

2266 TThhee OOPPEENN DDOOOORR IIssssuuee 11 ll 22002200

Anniversaries

DECEMBER 2019, JANUARY AND FEBRUARY 2020

15 YEARS Lilliston, Courtney C. Huang, Alice Y.
Aliaj, Ferit Mulvihill Jr., John C. Kim, Andrew J.
Neethling, Anita J. Perez Sr., Cristhian J. Krueger, Kasey L.
Provisor, Erasto Sr. Mani, Sol
10 YEARS Rivera, Raul S. Martin, Natasia D.
Casarez, Leticia M. Sheets, Jonathan Martinez-Rizo, Jesus
Lee, Edita Winiger, Evan B. McCleskey, Drake A.
Pearson, David M. Zavala Morales, Jazmine M. Mejia, Brian D.
Schindler, Paul L. Mentch, Rene L.
Smurthwaite, Benjamin D. 1 YEAR Mobley, Ashley E.
Tiernan, Michael L. Adcock, Michael C. Murray, Gail A.
Alvarez, Robert G. Nielsen, Brian J. I
5 YEARS Ayala Ferreira, Fabiola Pearson, Chardonae M.
Burlaza, Mark Anthony B. Back, Goeun Salgado, Felipe J.
David, Lawrence J. Carpenter, Lauren F. Salic, Began
Davis, Keith W. Deverix, Tad L. Schulman, Eli W.
Gregory, Nancy A. Duke, Savanna M. Schussler, Phillip J.
Hodack, Brad Earles, Marissa N. Simmons, Benjamin
Johnson, Deneen L. Fullerton, Gregory R. Smiles, Matthew A.
Johnson, Michael Grant, William M. Jr. Valadao, Joseph A.
Kirkland, Danielle Hernandez, Alondra Warmack, Timothy
Konate, Koron D. Wiggins, Sharonn