Leadership Team
-
Bernie Grablowsky, PhD, PCAM
Chairman of the Board
Bernie’s interests include hiking and biking in Colorado each summer as well as travelling throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. Bernie is an avid re...
Bernie’s interests include hiking and biking in Colorado each summer as well as travelling throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. Bernie is an avid reader of fiction on vacations, but sticks to business publications at home. His newest passion is swimming, where he continues to add laps and distance in his quest “mile” each week, having recently completed 450 miles. As a builder, developer, real estate investor and consultant, Bernie brings many years of experience to UPA clients. Prior to starting UPA in 1978, with his wife, Helene Grablowsky, Bernie was Chairman of the Department of Finance at Old Dominion University. He holds degrees in civil engineering and management from Georgia Tech and a doctorate in finance from Ohio State, with post-doctoral study at The Wharton School. After many years as President of UPA, Bernie’s desire is to help nurture the company’s growth and development as the region’s premier management company for the next generation of his family. Helene is still involved with ensuring the financial stability and operational integrity of the business. -
Debra G. Young
President and Chief Executive Officer
An enthusiastic traveler, Debra has visited South Africa, a number of countries in Europe, Hawaii and Belize. She enjoys baking, trying new restaurant...
An enthusiastic traveler, Debra has visited South Africa, a number of countries in Europe, Hawaii and Belize. She enjoys baking, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her friends and family, most of all her husband and two sons. Debra began her career by graduating from an intensive management development program and continued her career at MBNA, SunTrust and General Electric in marketing, management and business development roles. She joined UPA in 2009. She was brought on board to maintain the operational integrity of UPA through the creation of policies, procedures, employee retention programs, and business development efforts. She holds a degree in Business Management from the University of Delaware, and a broker’s license in Virginia. -
Anita Loonam, CMCA, AMS, PCAM
Executive Vice President – Association Division
Anita’s favorite pastime is spoiling her grandchildren! She also enjoys gardening, traveling, fine dining and playing billiards. She placed 5th in the...
Anita’s favorite pastime is spoiling her grandchildren! She also enjoys gardening, traveling, fine dining and playing billiards. She placed 5th in the APA National Pool Tournament in Las Vegas in both 8-ball and 9-ball tournaments in 2014 and currently plays on two teams for the Southside APA league. As the Executive Vice President of the Association Management Division, Anita supervises the day-to-day operations of the department and is responsible for employee, company growth and development. She has redesigned the manager training curriculum for the division and oversees the mandatory monthly training programs to ensure that UPA’s managers are properly trained and up-to-date on any changes forthcoming in the industry. Over the course of her career, she has earned her Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA), Association Management Specialist (AMS), and Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM) designations through the Community Associations Institute. She is an active participant in the local South-Eastern Virginia Community Associations Institute (SEVA-CAI) chapter, as well as, the Central Virginia chapter in Richmond. Anita was recognized as Speaker of the Year in 2015, 2016 and Recruiter of the Year in 2015 for the SEVA-CAI chapter. -
Craig Ward
Vice President of Finance – Association Division
An avid sports fan, Craig is partial to the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. He bikes and walks for health and fitness. Craig and his wife...
An avid sports fan, Craig is partial to the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. He bikes and walks for health and fitness. Craig and his wife, Wendy, also have twin sons and a daughter. A decade as a U.S. Navy Supply Corp Officer along with operating his own business made Craig a “teacher at heart” and he enjoys helping board members further their understanding of association financial statements. Craig has been instrumental in implementing the new management software and automated Accounts Payable programs at UPA over the last few years. -
Kristen M. Millard
Chief Financial Officer
For quiet relaxation, Kristen likes to settle in with a good book, her Yorkiepoos, Daisy Mae and Kino, curled up nearby. When looking for something mo...
For quiet relaxation, Kristen likes to settle in with a good book, her Yorkiepoos, Daisy Mae and Kino, curled up nearby. When looking for something more active, she heads for the bowling lanes, goes camping with Danny, her husband of 23 years or chases after her grandson, Aiden. As well as leading the UPA accounting team, Kristen may join them in their daily work process. “It enables me to see their challenges as we all work toward an efficient solution.” The team also benefits from her background as a business analyst and banking operations specialist. Kristen has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Management from Strayer University. -
Dana Jenkins, RAM
Director – Rentals Division
Dana loves to travel, and fishing is her favorite sport. She enjoys volunteering and has been in the role of a Big Sister and child life volunteer spe...
Dana loves to travel, and fishing is her favorite sport. She enjoys volunteering and has been in the role of a Big Sister and child life volunteer specialist at the Children’s Hospital of the Kings Daughters. Her volunteer work has led to UPA sponsoring the child life department at CHKD once a year. She is a "Gigi" and an active godmother of four boys and five girls. “Let the life I live, speak for me,” she says. “Doing what you like is freedom and liking what you do is happiness.” That’s been Dana Jenkins’ belief for many years. She began her career helping people as a childcare provider and made the transition to a property leasing specialist when she moved from Hawaii to Washington State. Over twenty years later, providing exceptional customer service and team building are still her passions. OSHA certified, Dana has also completed Fair Housing Training and holds a Registration in Apartment Management (RAM) certification for her knowledge in all the essential aspects of property operations including administrative and financial management, marketing, resident services, maintenance, fair housing, and security. -
Emma Connelly, PHR
Human Resources Director
A seashore and outdoor enthusiast, Emma enjoys taking the top and doors off her Jeep Wrangler on a sunny day and heading to the beach. Prior to joinin...
A seashore and outdoor enthusiast, Emma enjoys taking the top and doors off her Jeep Wrangler on a sunny day and heading to the beach. Prior to joining UPA in 2014 she worked at large corporations and has used her previous experience to bring new ideas to enhance the operations within the company. As new parents to their little boy Waylon, Emma and husband Channing enjoy doing home projects, assisted by Mae, their Great Pyrenees. She sums up her job like this: “I believe that creating the best practices and policies for the organization help attract and retain exceptional employees so that UPA clients receive exceptional service.” Emma holds a Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree, with a minor in Psychology, from the University of North Florida. -
Maria Khrustselevskaya
Controller – Association Division
When traveling with her husband and her two sons, Maria’s favorite activities include reconnecting with nature at local state and national parks. They...
When traveling with her husband and her two sons, Maria’s favorite activities include reconnecting with nature at local state and national parks. They also like to visit fine art museums, especially if they are exhibiting works by her favorite painters – Raphael, Vermeer, and van Gogh. At UPA, she oversees the Association Division accounting department. Maria draws on her accounting management experience at a fast growing telecommunication installation and service company as well as her volunteer work at the United Nations. This background has also helped her to be a patient trainer who is able to communicate complex information in simple terms. Maria holds an Honors Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with Accounting and Audit majors. -
Kaila Lohr
Operations Supervisor
Kaila joined UPA in 2015. As the Operations Supervisor, Kaila has a passion for fostering positive relationships with clients, vendors, and the commun...
Kaila joined UPA in 2015. As the Operations Supervisor, Kaila has a passion for fostering positive relationships with clients, vendors, and the community. Kaila is the organizer of UPA’s community outreach. She feels a sense of purpose working with local organizations to create volunteer initiatives that support the community and bring employees together. Kaila is a Virginia Beach native and married to her high school sweetheart, together they share one daughter. When not working, Kaila enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and traveling. Kaila is an avid fiction reader, you can often find her at a local coffee shop with a book in hand. As a travel enthusiast, Kaila has been to several different countries, visited Mayan ruins in Central America, and hopes to visit the pyramids of Giza in the future. -
Michael Carney
Quality Assurance Manager - Rentals Division
Michael is the Quality Assurance Manager at UPA, helping to provide quality products to residents ensuring they are proud of their home. Prior to join...
Michael is the Quality Assurance Manager at UPA, helping to provide quality products to residents ensuring they are proud of their home. Prior to joining UPA in 2008, Mike worked as a maintenance superintendent which helped to develop his leadership skills. Mike has more than 20 years of experience in property maintenance and is OSHA, EPA, and pool certified. He loves the beach and enjoys water sports. Mike has been married for 25 years and shares three children with his wife and one grandchild, who has now become his new favorite person in the world. When Mike is not spending time with his family, he is cooking. Mike humbly holds the title of “Master Griller” amongst his family. -
Ruby Nelson, aPHR
Human Resources Generalist
Ruby previously worked as a recruiter, gaining experience in sourcing talent prior to beginning her career with UPA in 2018. As the Human Resources Ge...
Ruby previously worked as a recruiter, gaining experience in sourcing talent prior to beginning her career with UPA in 2018. As the Human Resources Generalist, Ruby finds and retains top talent helping to serve UPA clients with excellence. She is a fitness enthusiast, actively a member of Burn Boot Camp. When she is not working out, she enjoys spending time in nature, hiking, and being a mother to her many plants. Recently, Ruby hiked Mt. Yale in Colorado. Family is important to Ruby, she is married and enjoys being an aunt to three nieces and two nephews. -
Cheryl Marston
Regional Property Manager – Rentals Division
With husband, Aron, three sons and a daughter – along with five cats and a dog – Cheryl Marston’s household is a bustling place. Cheryl is also a Girl...
With husband, Aron, three sons and a daughter – along with five cats and a dog – Cheryl Marston’s household is a bustling place. Cheryl is also a Girl Scout troop leader, Parent Teacher Association (PTA) volunteer, and finds time for her daily workout. A military spouse for 31 years, Cheryl understands first-hand the importance of customer service. With over 20 years in the property management industry, she has the understanding and skills to make finding and enjoying a new home a smoother experience. Furthering her experience, she has served on the Board of Directors of her Homeowners Association for the past six years. -
Brenda Dalton, SHCM, COS
Regional Property Manager - Rentals Division
With more than 15 years of experience in property management and related areas, Brenda is a family-oriented professional. Her family is very important...
With more than 15 years of experience in property management and related areas, Brenda is a family-oriented professional. Her family is very important to her as are the families who live in the homes she manages. Throughout her career, Brenda has managed and overseen a diverse range of family homes including Low Income Tax Credit Program (LIHTC), Section 8 housing and conventional properties. Her current role with UPA includes supervising compliance monitoring for tax credit properties. She holds a number of professional certifications including HCCP (Housing Credit Certified Professional), SHCM (Specialist in Housing Credit Management), and CPO (Certified Professional of Occupancy) from the National Center for Housing Management and The National Association of Home Builders. Brenda studied Business Management at Norfolk State University. -
Lisa Turner, RAM
Property Manager - Single Family Division
Lisa is a property management professional who enjoys helping prospects find their new home. Lisa holds a Registration in Apartment Management (RAM) c...
Lisa is a property management professional who enjoys helping prospects find their new home. Lisa holds a Registration in Apartment Management (RAM) certification for her knowledge in all the essential aspects of property operations. Beginning her employment with UPA in 2012, Lisa takes pride in her duties as the Property Manager for UPA’s Single Family division. Lisa enjoys being active, biking and swimming are her two favorite activities. When at home, Lisa loves to cook and spend time with her two daughters. -
Kelli Badary, CMCA, AMS, PCAM
Director – Association Division
Kelli’s passion is to over-deliver and exceed expectations, including answering phone calls before they go to voicemail. Her love of yoga, running, hi...
Kelli’s passion is to over-deliver and exceed expectations, including answering phone calls before they go to voicemail. Her love of yoga, running, hiking and caring for two Yorkies means she is equally energetic outside of the office. As a call center team lead with an international consumer electronics manufacturer, Kelli learned how important customer service satisfaction is to the product or services offered. At UPA she uses that experience to help teach association managers and board members the specifics of condominium and homeowner associations. Kelli attends key association board meetings, works with new client onboarding, setting up boards and their documentation, and assists with the day-to-day management of UPA’s Association Division. She has an Associate in Applied Science and earned her Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA), Association Management Specialist (AMS), and Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM) designations through the Community Associations Institute. -
Ashley Benbow, CMCA, AMS
Director - Association Division
Originally from Wilmington, North Carolina, in 2016 Ashley moved to the Hampton Roads area with her husband Matt and their golden retriever Thor. When...
Originally from Wilmington, North Carolina, in 2016 Ashley moved to the Hampton Roads area with her husband Matt and their golden retriever Thor. When she is not nestled up reading a book or cooking in the kitchen, Ashley enjoys a good DIY project. With over ten years of real estate and property management experience, she finds enjoyment in helping her communities problem solve and achieve their goals. During her career at UPA, Ashley has also obtained her Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) and Association Management Specialist (AMS) designations through the Community Associations Institute (CAI). As a team leader in the Newport News office, Ashley works diligently with her team to provide the resources and guidance so that all the properties within their portfolios receive excellent customer service. -
Matthew Hallman, CMCA, AMS
Director of Business Development - Association Division
As the Director of Acquisitions for the Association Management Division, Matthew is passionate about building strong relationships. He exceeds expecta...
As the Director of Acquisitions for the Association Management Division, Matthew is passionate about building strong relationships. He exceeds expectations in communication. “I never leave clients questing if something is to get done.” Matthew has a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Business at Liberty University, and a MA in Executive Leadership through the School of Business at Liberty University. Matthew enjoys anything water related. When he is not working, you can find Matthew at the beach surfing or swimming. He is a baseball enthusiast, the Los Angeles Angels are his favorite team. He loves spending time with his family outdoors and frequenting farmers markets on the weekends. He is married with two children and has a French Bulldog named Zeek. Matthew obtained is AMS certification in 2024. -
Della Johnson, CMCA, AMS
Team Leader - Association Division
Since joining UPA in 2015, Della has always made providing excellent customer service a top priority. She has obtained her Certified Manager of Commun...
Since joining UPA in 2015, Della has always made providing excellent customer service a top priority. She has obtained her Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA), Association Management Specialist (AMS), and is working towards the Professional Community Association Management (PCAM) designation through the Community Associations Institute (CAI). She was also named the 2018 SEVA-CAI Recruiter of the Year. As a team leader in the Virginia Beach office, she strives to give the most accurate and up to date information available to assist her boards and her team of managers. In her spare time, she enjoys paddle boarding, crafting, cooking, and supporting her favorite football team the Philadelphia Eagles. Della and her husband have two fur children, a Maltese and a Maltese Pomeranian mix. Her two daughters are in college at Old Dominion University and Virginia Commonwealth University. She also has a teenage son and a son in the United States Marine Corp. -
Jo Burden, CMCA
Team Leader and Quality Assurance Manager - Association Division
Coming Soon!
Coming Soon! -
Paula Burchette, CMCA
Team Leader - Association Division
Paula Burchette began working in property management in Outer Banks, NC. She joined the UPA team in 2018 and as a Team Leader she holds a CMCA certifi...
Paula Burchette began working in property management in Outer Banks, NC. She joined the UPA team in 2018 and as a Team Leader she holds a CMCA certification. Paula excels in maintaining good working relationships with all her clients and vendors. She believes good communication is key to helping her communities prosper. Paula likes reading, shopping, and going to the beach, but most importantly she enjoys spending quality time with her blended family. Together, they have five girls, one very spoiled boy, one grandson, a dog, two tortoise, and multiple cichlid fish! -
Rachel Atkinson, CMCA
Team Leader - Association Division
Coming Soon!
Coming Soon! -
Debbie Vincent, CMCA
Team Leader - Association Division
Debbie Vincent joined the UPA team in 2017. She has since received her CMCA certification and has been promoted to Team Leader. Debbie works out of ou...
Debbie Vincent joined the UPA team in 2017. She has since received her CMCA certification and has been promoted to Team Leader. Debbie works out of our Peninsula office and has an extensive background in customer service. She was born and raised in England and moved to Virginia in 2007. In her spare time, Debbie enjoys gardening and spending time with her family which consists of her husband, two children and seven grandchildren. Debbie is detail orientated, organized and believes that communication is the key to providing superior customer service to all of UPA’s clients. -
Corrie Trice
Team Leader - Association Division
Coming Soon!
Coming Soon! -
Yolonda Thompson, CMCA
Team Leader - Association Division
Yolonda Thompson has been the Team Leader at UPA since 2025, bringing 13 years of experience as a Financial Service Manager. Her expertise in financia...
Yolonda Thompson has been the Team Leader at UPA since 2025, bringing 13 years of experience as a Financial Service Manager. Her expertise in financial services has honed her time management and leadership skills. Known for her dependability, approachability, and attention to detail, Yolonda is well-liked by her colleagues and is always ready to help. Outside of work, she enjoys Sunday mornings relaxing with coffee and movies. Her motto, "Family First," reflects her values as she cherishes time with her husband Michael, an Army veteran, their three children, and their dog, Prince. Yolonda also loves dining out with friends and has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, demonstrating her commitment to community service. With education from Thomas Nelson Community College and certifications such as CMCA and Notary Public, she combines professional expertise with personal passion. Currently reading "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," Yolonda is dedicated to personal growth. Whether on a cruise or enjoying family game nights, she balances professionalism with personal fulfillment, making her a valued member of the UPA family. -
Michaela Audet, CMCA, AMS
Portfolio and Quality Assurance Supervisor - Virginia Beach Office
With over 10 years of experience working in property management, Michaela Audet started her career as an Association Manager in Connecticut and joined...
With over 10 years of experience working in property management, Michaela Audet started her career as an Association Manager in Connecticut and joined UPA in 2014. Michaela has worked hard to continue learning by obtaining her CMCA and AMS designations. She loves to run in her spare time and spend quality time with her son Kaiden, husband and their two dogs. Michaela finds that helping to make a clients home a better and more comfortable place to live, makes her job rewarding and helps her to strive to better serve each one of her communities. -
Andrew Paul, CMCA, AMS
Portfolio and Training Supervisor - Virginia Beach Office
With over 13 years of experience working in property management, Andrew Paul joined United Property Associates in 2016. Andrew holds his CMCA, AMS and...
With over 13 years of experience working in property management, Andrew Paul joined United Property Associates in 2016. Andrew holds his CMCA, AMS and a bachelor's degree in Science from American University. As a Team Leader, Andrew enjoys helping to guiding and sharing his knowledge to help his team grow. He helps Boards keep the big picture in mind, especially when making financial decisions. Andrew enjoys golfing and running in his free time. He has a family of five including his wife Abby, their two children Lily and Cash, and their goldendoodle Henry. Although his career may be fast paced, Andrew enjoys slowing down in his downtime by listening to music, trying new beverages and spending time with his family. He hopes to continue to establish long term relationships and trust with his Boards and vendors. -
Victoria Hutchison, CMCA
Portfolio Supervisor - Association Division
Coming Soon!
Coming Soon! -
Benna Thomas, CMCA, AMS
Portfolio Supervisor - Association Division
While serving in the U.S. Navy in Hawaii as a Hospital Corpsman, Benna met her husband, Michael. After leaving the Navy, she became a Licensed Practic...
While serving in the U.S. Navy in Hawaii as a Hospital Corpsman, Benna met her husband, Michael. After leaving the Navy, she became a Licensed Practical Nurse, working at DePaul Hospital. Benna’s children and four grandchildren live in the area. Two rescued pugs and other pets share the Thomas' home. Benna brings years of practical experience to UPA clients. She lives in a Homeowner’s Association where she has served as a board member. Prior to joining UPA in 2002, Benna worked as a Homeowner’s Association Site Manager. Currently, her duties include portfolio management and supervision of Association Managers. She has earned her Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) and Association Management Specialist (AMS) designations through the Community Associations Institute. -
Angela Cleveland, CMCA
Portfolio Supervisor - Association Division
Angela has always enjoyed providing clients with professional services. She began working at UPA in 2017, helping her communities to thrive under her ...
Angela has always enjoyed providing clients with professional services. She began working at UPA in 2017, helping her communities to thrive under her management. Angela recently received her CMCA designation. Family is important to Angela, she is married with four children and a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren. She loves to joy, often setting off to enjoy retail therapy on the weekends. Angela loves to go site-seeing. -
Melissa Moon, CMCA
Portfolio Supervisor - Association Division
Melissa started her journey with UPA in 2018 as an Association Manager. With over 30 years of customer service experience, Melissa enjoys serving her ...
Melissa started her journey with UPA in 2018 as an Association Manager. With over 30 years of customer service experience, Melissa enjoys serving her communities and educating homeowners on how to maintain the property value of their homes. As the spouse of a retired Army veteran, Melissa loves to spend time with her family. Melissa enjoys playing and watching sports. When she is not hitting the bowling alley with her three children and two grandchildren, she is playing volleyball. Melissa holds a CMCA designation. -
Shane Prillaman, CMCA
Portfolio Supervisor - Association Division
Shane Prillaman joined the UPA team as an Association Manager in 2013. Within the eight years Shane has worked with UPA, he has received his CMCA cert...
Shane Prillaman joined the UPA team as an Association Manager in 2013. Within the eight years Shane has worked with UPA, he has received his CMCA certification and been promoted to Team Leader. In his spare time, Shane enjoys playing basketball. In addition to his all-star management and basketball skills, he enjoys practicing Tae-Kwon-Do. Shane is married with one son and a family cat. When Shane isn’t building Legos with his son, he is building rapport with his boards. Shane enjoys helping others and believes customer service is the most important aspect of the job.