Celebrating 90 years of excellence
The 2023 IREM Global Summit was particularly special, as this year IREM celebrates its 90th anniversary. Founded in 1933, IREM has been at the forefront of advancing the profession of real estate management and has consistently provided its members with the tools, knowledge, and resources to excel in their roles. This year's summit was not just about reflecting on the past, but also envisioning an even brighter future for property management.
The theme - Making an Impact
This year’s Summit theme "Making an Impact" underscores the essence of our community. Property managers have evolved from administrators of buildings to influencers of communities and stewards of sustainable practices. The real estate industry, more than ever, recognizes the importance of responsible management, and this theme celebrated the professionals who are taking charge of this transformation.
Property managers play a critical role in ensuring the success and sustainability of real estate assets. They are at the forefront of managing properties efficiently, improving tenant relations, and maintaining a strong bottom line. The 2023 IREM Global Summit provided a platform for property managers to exchange innovative ideas and best practices, addressing some of the most pressing challenges in the industry. Topics such as managing distressed property, women in leadership, technology integration, and diversity and inclusion were central to the discussions.
2023 IREM President Renee Savage's vision
Under 2023 IREM President Renee Savage’s leadership, the summit witnessed a focus on transformation and growth. Savage emphasized the importance of adapting to change, embracing innovation, and fostering an environment that promotes excellence within the property management profession.
“This year’s IREM theme has been impact,” said Savage. “I believe it’s so important that we can make a positive impact on the world. And this year our members have made a huge impact on the industry, on current and future IREM members, in their communities and their companies.” In the opening session, Savage highlighted the role of property managers as change agents. She stressed that property managers are not just responsible for maintaining bricks and mortar; they’re entrusted with creating vibrant communities, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring a positive return on investment for property owners.
Singer/songwriter Peter Katz joined the opening session and set the tone for a summit filled with energy and optimism.
The City of Toronto
Toronto, a city known for its multiculturalism, innovation, and iconic skyline, was a fitting backdrop for this historic summit. The event featured pre-conference events for Summit guests to experience and explore this beautiful city, known for its stunning architecture, cultural diversity, and culinary delights. Visitors had a chance to experience both the historical and most modern architecture, a donut adventure, food market tours, and the opening premier party held at the Hockey Hall of Fame. The IREM Foundation also sponsored a community service project with volunteer organization Club Sandwich, which makes and delivers sandwiches to local, vulnerable populations.
The main event
Every IREM Global Summit’s main event, the Gala, held on the last evening, marks a pivotal moment in the organization's history. IREM’s prestigious REME Awards were expanded to include DEI categories for individuals and corporations, and the IREM Foundation launched a new sustainability award in partnership with Jackson Control. Three members were also honored with IREM Foundation awards for notable contributions and commitment to real estate management. REME awards were presented to 8 winners in 7 categories, with a special shoutout to Jasmyn Sylvester, CPM®, ACoM®, who walked away with 2 REMEs.
Libby Ekre, CPM®, IREM’s 2023 president-elect, was installed as IREM’s 2024 president and offered a glimpse into her vision for IREM: “Leadership is not just a position – it’s a mindset. We know that everything we do as property managers is about people. We thrive in community, and we need each other.”
Looking ahead
As IREM celebrates its 90th anniversary and looks to the future, the summit emphasized that property managers are indeed "Making an Impact." IREM continues to empower professionals to excel in their roles and foster positive change in the real estate management profession. The impact of this historic event will resonate for years to come.
Start your engines, we're headed to Indy!
Get ready to connect with your peers and industry professionals! Join us in Indianapolis October 6 – 9, 2024, to enjoy networking events, education sessions, and IREM governance. Our theme, Power of purpose, is an inspiration to all IREM members to shape our future. Register by Dec 31, 2023, to lock in this year’s registration pricing.