11/11/2026
11 am PT / 12 pm MT / 1 pm CT / 2 pm ET
*approximate length: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Sponsored by the IREM DEI Advisory Council
Presenter: Samantha Thornton, CPM®, ARM, ACoM, Property Management Consultant
This presentation makes the case for building a neuroinclusive workplace and equips leaders with the mindset, language, and behaviors needed to communicate effectively with neurodivergent (ND) team members. It frames neurodiversity as an untapped talent advantage that too often goes unrealized because of exclusionary hiring practices and workplace norms that fail to support diverse ways of thinking and working.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop a shared understanding of inclusive terminology and key concepts related to neurodivergence in the workplace.
- Learn practical communication strategies that support engagement, clarity, and high-level performance for neurodivergent team members.
- Explore ways to design flexible, supportive work environments that still provide the structure and consistency teams need to thrive.
Samantha Thornton, CPM®, ARM®, ACoM®, is a seasoned real estate management professional with over 20 years of experience in both residential and commercial property management. In 2026, she launched her own consulting firm, where she partners with organizations to strengthen operations, elevate team performance, and build more inclusive workplace cultures.
Samantha has been an active and dedicated leader within IREM for many years. She served as the 2025 President of the IREM Austin Chapter and currently represents Region 7 as its Regional Vice President, supporting chapters while championing member engagement, leadership development, and strategic growth.
A passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Samantha is committed to creating environments where people of all backgrounds feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Her leadership is grounded in mentorship, collaboration, and the belief that inclusive practices strengthen both teams and the broader real estate profession.