Leadership Team
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Bernie Grablowsky, PhD
Chairman of the Board
Dr. Bernie Grablowsky serves as the Chairman of the Board, owner, and founder of UPA. With a robust educational background that includes a Bachelo...
<p> Dr. Bernie Grablowsky serves as the Chairman of the Board, owner, and founder of UPA. With a robust educational background that includes a Bachelor of Civil Engineering, a Master of Science in Industrial Management, and a Ph.D. in Finance and Marketing, Bernie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. His previous experience as a finance professor at Old Dominion University laid a strong foundation for his subsequent entrepreneurial journey. A typical day for Bernie is both enjoyable and engaging; he values the interactions he has with his employees. Known for his logical thinking and extensive business contacts, he focuses on his passion for growing UPA. He is described as thoughtful, a testament to his dedication to the organization’s mission. </p> <p> Beyond the office, Bernie enjoys reading publications such as the Wallstreet Journal, National Geographic, and Smithsonian Magazine to stay informed and inspired. He is happiest when he is hiking, biking, or swimming. Dr. Grablowsky is not only committed to his professional pursuits but also to philanthropy. He is actively involved in non-profit organizations and conservation efforts for national parks and natural areas, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community. </p> <p> In his personal life, Bernie cherishes time spent with his wife, Helene, and enjoys watching their grandchildren play sports. With a personal motto of "Be Persistent," Bernie embodies the qualities of consistency, knowledge, and perseverance, making him a respected leader. </p> -
Debra G. Young
President and Chief Executive Officer
Debra is a dedicated leader, currently serving as the second-generation Owner, CEO, and President of UPA. With a wealth of experience and a deep c...
<p> Debra is a dedicated leader, currently serving as the second-generation Owner, CEO, and President of UPA. With a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the organization's mission, Debra plays a key role in shaping and executing the strategic vision of UPA. Before her tenure at UPA, Debra honed her skills at multiple Fortune 500 financial institutions, where she led initiatives in marketing, merchant services, credit acquisition, and relationship management. </p> <p> Debra describes herself as passionate, reliable, and purposeful, qualities that her colleagues echo by characterizing her as down-to-earth, generous, and determined. Her resilience, empathy, and critical thinking set her apart in her professional journey, where she finds great joy in helping employees unlock their potential and succeed. </p> <p> Outside of work, Debra cherishes time spent with her family, including her husband Iain, their children Alex and Blake, and their beloved Yellow Lab, Lily. Together, they enjoy watching movies, traveling, reading, and playing board games. Recently, they have taken up fly fishing, and family time is often sprinkled with Iain's daily dad jokes and Blake's fascinating daily facts. </p> <p> Debra holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing and management from the University of Delaware. She is also a licensed broker in Virginia, serving as Principal Broker for UPA. Debra is passionate about philanthropy, actively supporting organizations like CHKD and others focused on helping children realize their full potential. Her personal motto, "Gratitude first. Solutions always. Goodness everywhere," reflects her positive outlook and unwavering commitment to making a difference in both her professional and personal life. </p> -
Anita Loonam, CMCA, AMS, PCAM
Executive Vice President – Association Division
As a dependable leader in the field of association management, Anita is known for her problem-solving abilities and strong ethical standards. With...
<p> As a dependable leader in the field of association management, Anita is known for her problem-solving abilities and strong ethical standards. With a wealth of experience, Anita currently oversees the Association Management division, where she excels in managing meetings, addressing escalated issues, and collaborating closely with managers to foster a productive work environment. Her commitment to training and educating board members and managers is a testament to her passion for teaching others about the intricacies of the industry. Anita holds multiple designations, including CMCA, AMS, and PCAM, showcasing her dedication to professional growth and excellence. </p> <p> Outside of her professional life, Anita finds joy in spending quality time with her family, including her husband, Ed, daughter Kristine, son-in-law Ben, grandson Jax, granddaughter Reece, and their beloved dog, Sami. An avid pool player and a passionate cook, Anita believes in living life to the fullest, which is perfectly encapsulated in her personal motto: "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." In essence, Anita embodies the spirit of a leader who not only strives for excellence in her work but also nurtures those around her with compassion and integrity. </p> -
Kristen M. Millard
Chief Financial Officer
Kristen is a financial professional, collaborating closely with the CEO and President to support various divisions of UPA. With a Bachelor's Degre...
<p> Kristen is a financial professional, collaborating closely with the CEO and President to support various divisions of UPA. With a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, concentrating in Management, Kristen has sharpened her analytical skills through experiences as a Business Analyst in a mutual fund company. Outside of work, Kristen enjoys bowling, reading, and crafting. She loves spending time with her husband Danny, children Evan and Kaylin, and grandson Aiden, often going on camping trips with their Yorkipoos. </p> <p> In her spare time, Kristen loves to travel with friends and family, immersing herself in new experiences and cultures. She is also committed to giving back, supporting causes like the American Cancer Society and St. Jude's. Kristen is an avid reader, often found with a copy of People Magazine or National Geographic Kids alongside her grandson. Her colleagues describe her as knowledgeable and always willing to help, reflecting her passion for continuous learning and making processes more efficient. </p> -
Dana Jenkins, RAM
Director – Rentals Division
Dana is a passionate leader in the property management industry, currently overseeing operations in the rentals division. With a strong foundation...
<p> Dana is a passionate leader in the property management industry, currently overseeing operations in the rentals division. With a strong foundation in effective communication, problem-solving, and decision-making, Dana ensures the smooth operation and performance of properties under her management. In her personal life, Dana enjoys traveling and fishing. She cherishes time spent with family, enjoying shared adventures and activities. She believes in the power of mentorship and strives to make a positive impact in the lives of others, embodying her personal motto: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” </p> <p> Dana's leadership style is characterized by loyalty, empathy, and encouragement. She thrives on fostering creativity within her team and is dedicated to driving innovation and advancement. Recognized by her colleagues as an enjoyable and helpful team member, Dana's passion for leadership extends beyond the workplace; she actively participates in philanthropy and community involvement, having volunteered for organizations like Big Brother/Big Sister and CHKD. With a deep commitment to her profession, family, and community, Dana Jenkins exemplifies the qualities of a dynamic and inspiring leader. </p> -
Craig Ward
Vice President of Finance – Association Division
As the Vice President of Finance for the Association Division at UPA, Craig has dedicated over 20 years of service playing a crucial role in suppo...
<p> As the Vice President of Finance for the Association Division at UPA, Craig has dedicated over 20 years of service playing a crucial role in supporting the acquisition of new clients, negotiating contracts, and ensuring the financial health and growth of the organization. Renowned for his expertise, Craig provides essential board training, helping members enhance their understanding of complex financial statements. His leadership style has earned him the reputation of being a helpful leader and a good teacher, as described by his team. </p> <p> Before joining UPA, Craig had a decade-long career as a U.S. Navy Supply Corps Officer, which refined his skills in finance and leadership. He also operated his own business, allowing him to blend practical experience with his passion for teaching. Outside of work, Craig is an avid sports fan, passionately supporting the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. He values health and fitness, often seen biking or walking. Craig and his wife, Wendy, enjoy family life with their twin sons and daughter, balancing the joys of parenthood with their professional commitments. With a deep commitment to both UPA and his community, Craig continues to inspire those around him through his dedication to education and service. </p> -
Emma Connelly, PHR
Human Resources Director
Emma is a Human Resources professional with a B.A. in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology from the University of North Florida, Emma brings...
<p> Emma is a Human Resources professional with a B.A. in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology from the University of North Florida, Emma brings a unique perspective to her role, emphasizing the importance of empathy and rational decision-making. Before joining UPA, Emma honed her skills in the insurance industry, where she managed large loss home claims. This experience enriched her ability to navigate complex situations with an open and fair mindset, which she now applies in her current role. </p> <p> Emma is known for her approachable nature, which makes her a valuable resource for her colleagues. They describe her as available, easy to work with, and always willing to lend a helping hand. Beyond her professional life, Emma enjoys spending time surrounded by her loved ones. Emma shares her life with her husband Channing, their children Waylon and Caroline, and their dog Mae. Together, they enjoy outdoor activities, especially near water, and often seek out the latest brunch spots to explore with friends. Her personal motto, "The best is yet to come," reflects her optimistic approach to life and work, inspiring those around her to strive for excellence and fairness in all endeavors. </p> -
Maria Khrustselevskaya
Controller – Association Division
Maria is a dedicated professional with a BA in Accounting and Audit, achieving a 4.0 GPA. Before joining UPA, she served as an Accounting Manager ...
<p> Maria is a dedicated professional with a BA in Accounting and Audit, achieving a 4.0 GPA. Before joining UPA, she served as an Accounting Manager at Adcomm in Florida, where she developed strong analytical skills and focused on process optimization. Maria’s typical day combines family life, personal well-being, and her commitment to excellence in her career. She starts each morning with a refreshing walk and yoga, and cherishes family moments filled with dinner conversations and bedtime stories. </p> <p> Her professional passion lies in data analysis and using MS Excel to create innovative solutions that enhance productivity. Colleagues describe her as analytical, detail-oriented, and efficient. Outside of work, Maria is passionate about environmental conservation. She enjoys connecting with friends and family, reading, and traveling around the world. Her personal motto reflects her resilient spirit: “I never give up, because while my family is always by my side, I draw the strength I need from within myself and embrace each moment with gratitude.” This mindset defines her approach to both leadership and life. </p> -
Kaila Lohr
Operations Supervisor
Kaila plays a pivotal role at UPA, working closely with the CEO and President to manage various projects. She is passionate about bolstering UPA's...
<p> Kaila plays a pivotal role at UPA, working closely with the CEO and President to manage various projects. She is passionate about bolstering UPA's online reputation. Her primary focus is enhancing the company’s brand while connecting with the community through volunteering and outreach. Kaila also organizes various company events, helping to ensure employees feel engaged while fostering strong internal relationships. Her efforts have helped UPA gain recognition through award programs such as Top Workplaces and features in prestigious publications like Forbes and Fortune. Her positive demeanor makes her not just a friendly colleague but also an approachable leader. </p> <p> Kaila is an avid reader, consuming around 50 books a year, and enjoys visiting local coffee shops, connecting with friends, and discussing new ideas. When not working, she loves to unwind with her husband, Tyler, and their two daughters, Ellie and Lainey, often enjoying days at the zoo, beach, or park. In her downtime, Kaila finds joy in reading fiction and thriller novels, solving Sudoku puzzles, and playing fetch with her dogs, Scooby and Maverick. Her personal motto, "Being happy is the greatest form of success," encapsulates her approach to both life and work. </p> -
Michael Carney
Quality Assurance Manager - Rentals Division
Known for his strong work ethic and team-oriented approach, Michael exemplifies what it means to be both a reliable team player and an effective l...
<p> Known for his strong work ethic and team-oriented approach, Michael exemplifies what it means to be both a reliable team player and an effective leader. He currently serves in a key role at UPA, where he has honed his skills in maintenance, focusing on cost-saving initiatives that benefit the organization. Colleagues describe Michael as fun-loving and approachable, with a knack for bringing people together. His interpersonal skills and ability to lead by example make him a valuable asset to any team. </p> <p> Outside of work, Michael cherishes time spent with his family, including his parents, wife, children, and grandchild. The Carney family enjoys gathering for meals filled with laughter and games, creating lasting memories together. When he's not engaged in his professional responsibilities, you can find Michael boogie boarding or enjoying lunch along the oceanfront, often sharing happy hour moments with his wife. He is an avid reader, with a preference for non-fiction history books, and regularly follows sports news. Michael's personal motto, "I'll take care of it for you," reflects his commitment to service and reliability. These principles guide him in both his work and personal life. </p> -
Ruby Nelson, aPHR
Human Resources Generalist
Ruby is a dedicated professional in the field of Human Resources, specializing in seeking and placing potential candidates for positions within th...
<p> Ruby is a dedicated professional in the field of Human Resources, specializing in seeking and placing potential candidates for positions within the company. She is known for her thoughtful and organized approach. Ruby ensures that both employees and potential candidates receive the support and information they need to thrive. Her optimistic and upbeat personality fosters a positive work environment, making her a reliable resource for her team. </p> <p> Outside of her professional life, Ruby enjoys cooking and hosting friends and family during her free time. On weekends, you can find her biking and enjoying the outdoors. In her off time, Ruby enjoys visiting new places and traveling abroad. With her diverse skill set and a genuine passion for helping others, Ruby continues to make a significant impact at United Property Associates. </p> -
Brenda Dalton, SHCM, COS
Regional Property Manager - Rentals Division
Brenda is a seasoned property management professional with over 15 years of experience dedicated to serving families and communities. Known for he...
<p> Brenda is a seasoned property management professional with over 15 years of experience dedicated to serving families and communities. Known for her respectful and knowledgeable approach, Brenda has built a reputation as a supportive leader who empowers her team and prioritizes the well-being of the residents she serves. </p> <p> A family-oriented individual, Brenda values her time with loved ones and enjoys planning family events, reflecting her deep commitment to creating strong community ties. Her professional focus aligns closely with her personal values, as she has managed a diverse array of properties, including properties under the Low-Income Tax Credit Program, Section 8 housing, and conventional housing options. Her approach is deeply rooted in a passion for community and family, making her an exceptional leader committed to excellence in housing management. </p> -
Cheryl Marston
Regional Property Manager – Rentals Division
Cheryl is an accomplished property management professional, bringing a wealth of skills to the table that empower her site staff and ensure smooth...
<p> Cheryl is an accomplished property management professional, bringing a wealth of skills to the table that empower her site staff and ensure smooth operations across her properties. She has a passion for challenging properties, taking pride in coaching unseasoned managers and helping them thrive. Cheryl cherishes time spent with her family, which includes her spouse, four children, three grandchildren, and eight beloved cats. Family gatherings, whether for dinner or casual home visits, are central to her life. </p> <p> In her free time, Cheryl enjoys sewing, dining out with friends, and volunteering. Many nights, she can be found lounging with at least two cats on her lap while spending time with her loved ones. She embraces the motto: “Be productive instead of busy.” With her blend of experience, leadership, and community involvement, Cheryl continues to make a significant impact in both her professional and personal life. </p> -
Brittani Oliver
Junior Regional Property Manager - Rentals Division
Brittani is known for her approachable and reliable leadership style. With a passion for problem-solving and community engagement, Brittani brings...
<p> Brittani is known for her approachable and reliable leadership style. With a passion for problem-solving and community engagement, Brittani brings strong communication skills to her role. Before joining UPA in 2014, she honed her organizational and interpersonal abilities working as a receptionist at a law firm. Colleagues describe her as always willing to help, approachable, and respectful, a testament to her team-oriented approach. </p> <p> Outside of work, Brittani enjoys crafts, DIY projects, and small-scale party decorating. She finds happiness in cheering on her sons at sporting events, bonding with her daughter, exploring new restaurants with her fiancé, and seeking out adventurous experiences. Family game nights and attending events together are treasured traditions. Guided by her personal motto, "Be the change you wish to see in the world", she inspires those around her through her actions and leadership. </p> -
Lisa Turner, RAM
Property Manager - Single Family Division
As a dedicated property management professional with over a decade of experience in the industry, Lisa specializes in all aspects of managing sing...
<p> As a dedicated property management professional with over a decade of experience in the industry, Lisa specializes in all aspects of managing single-family rental properties. She possesses a comprehensive understanding of essential property operations. Lisa has a passion for helping prospective tenants find their perfect home, which is reflected in her diligent and hardworking approach to property management. Her coworkers often describe her as both hardworking and diligent, highlighting her commitment to her role and her team. </p> <p> Outside of work, Lisa enjoys staying active. Biking and swimming are her favorite pastimes, allowing her to maintain a balanced lifestyle. At home, she loves to cook and cherish moments with her two daughters, further demonstrating her dedication to both her professional and personal life. Lisa's leadership and expertise in property management make her an invaluable asset to UPA and the families she serves. </p> -
Kelli Badary, CMCA, AMS, PCAM
Director – Association Division
Kelli is a dedicated and adaptable leader with a strong foundation in team dynamics and operational efficiency. Kelli excels in transforming daily...
<p> Kelli is a dedicated and adaptable leader with a strong foundation in team dynamics and operational efficiency. Kelli excels in transforming daily challenges into opportunities for growth. Before her tenure at UPA, Kelli demonstrated her leadership capabilities as a Team Lead at Panasonic, where she honed her skills in collaboration and project management. Her ability to embrace change and find solutions has earned her recognition among colleagues, who describe her as hardworking, supportive, and committed to adaptability. Kelli is constantly seeking ways to enhance her skills and those of her team. </p> <p> Outside of work, Kelli treasures spending quality time with her husband and family, engaging in activities like hiking, traveling, and gardening. A lover of literature, she often finds joy in reading novels during her downtime. On Sunday mornings, she can be found savoring coffee in the tranquility of her surroundings, recharging for the week ahead. Guided by her motto, "Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better," Kelli continues to inspire those around her through her leadership and unwavering commitment to improvement. </p> -
Ashley Benbow, CMCA, AMS, PCAM
Director - Association Division
With a wealth of experience in property management and community development, Ashley’s career is marked by strong organizational skills, effective...
<p> With a wealth of experience in property management and community development, Ashley’s career is marked by strong organizational skills, effective communication, and unwavering dedication to her team's success. Ashley is recognized by her colleagues for her willingness to help and her focus on developing others. Her professional passions include working closely with developing communities and providing training and guidance to fellow managers, reflecting her commitment to fostering growth and collaboration within her team. </p> <p> Outside of work, Ashley is a loving partner to her husband, Matt, and a devoted dog owner to Thor. Together, they enjoy exploring new destinations, spending time at Busch Gardens, and enjoying home improvement projects. Ashley is also active in her community, participating in multiple ministries, including Women’s Ministry and Video Projection. In everything she does, Ashley lives by the personal motto, "Never stop learning," continually seeking new knowledge and experiences that enrich her life and those around her. </p> -
Matthew Hallman, CMCA, AMS
Director of Business Development - Association Division
As a driven and results-oriented professional, Matthew has a passion for building strong relationships. With a bachelor's in interdisciplinary stu...
<p> As a driven and results-oriented professional, Matthew has a passion for building strong relationships. With a bachelor's in interdisciplinary studies from Liberty University and a master’s in executive leadership, Matthew has cultivated a strong educational foundation to support his role at UPA. Over the years, Matthew has gained valuable experience as a property manager, honing his skills in communication, problem-solving, and organization. These traits have made him a reliable resource for clients, enabling him to provide exceptional service and tailored solutions. </p> <p> Matthew enjoys spending quality time outdoors with his wife, Yasmin, and their three children, Melrose, Camden, and Silas. Their spirited French bulldog, Zeek, completes the family unit. Together, they cherish activities such as beach outings, park visits, and farmers' market strolls, embracing the joys of life while fostering a close-knit family dynamic. In his free time, he loves to surf, a sport he’s been dedicated to since childhood. Colleagues describe Matthew as accessible and willing to help, consistently demonstrating a thoughtful approach to leadership. Matthew embodies the qualities of a modern leader who prioritizes growth, collaboration, and a genuine desire to uplift those around him. </p> -
Jo Burden, CMCA, AMS
Regional Manager - Association Division
Jo is a passionate and motivated professional dedicated to fostering an environment of growth and collaboration. With a background in retail train...
<p> Jo is a passionate and motivated professional dedicated to fostering an environment of growth and collaboration. With a background in retail training for AT&T, Jo has honed exceptional skills in motivation and organization, which serve as the foundation for her leadership style. Jo is not only a leader at work but also a dedicated family member. She shares her life with her fiancé, Brian, and her two sons, Bradley and Brady, alongside three dogs - Athena, Elli, and Daisy. Whether it’s enjoying family dinners or spending time at the beach, Jo believes in cherishing every moment with her loved ones. </p> <p> Her colleagues describe her as a passionate, organized, and motivated individual who leads with heart and determination. When she's not working, you can find Jo happily sitting on the beach, unwinding and reflecting on life, or reminiscing with friends about their childhood. Her professional interests center around the philosophy of "work smarter, not harder," an approach that resonates throughout her leadership practices. </p> -
Paula Burchette, CMCA, AMS
Regional Manager - Association Division
With a strong focus on fostering positive relationships, Paula prioritizes effective communication as a cornerstone of her approach to property ma...
<p> With a strong focus on fostering positive relationships, Paula prioritizes effective communication as a cornerstone of her approach to property management. She believes that building trust and understanding among clients and vendors is essential for the success of the communities she serves. Her dedication to maintaining these relationships has earned her respect and admiration within the industry. </p> <p> Outside of her professional life, Paula is passionate about a variety of activities. She enjoys reading, shopping, and soaking up the sun at the beach. Most importantly, Paula cherishes her time spent with her blended family, which includes five daughters, one son, a grandson, a dog, two tortoises, and a collection of cichlid fish. Through her leadership and commitment, Paula continues to make a positive impact in property management, embodying both professionalism and a warm, family-oriented spirit. </p> -
Corrie Trice, CMCA, AMS
Regional Manager - Association Division
Corrie is a seasoned leader with over a decade of experience in team management and community service. As a supervisor, she oversees a team of Ass...
<p> Corrie is a seasoned leader with over a decade of experience in team management and community service. As a supervisor, she oversees a team of Association Managers, delivering essential support, training, and guidance to enhance service quality across communities. Her educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management and a Master's Degree focused on Human Resources Management. Before joining UPA, Corrie served as an Assistant Administrator, managing safety operations for buildings and personnel. Her supportive leadership style and strong communication skills have earned her the reputation of being approachable and dependable, making her a go-to resource for colleagues and team members alike. </p> <p> Outside of work, Corrie enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, participating in activities like skating and going to the movies. A passionate fitness instructor, she values health and wellness and actively supports community initiatives focused on education and leadership development. Corrie is dedicated to empowering others and fostering meaningful growth both personally and professionally. </p> -
Yolonda Thompson, CMCA, AMS
Regional Manager - Association Division
Yolonda has been the Team Leader at UPA since 2025, bringing 13 years of experience as a Financial Service Manager. Her expertise in financial ser...
<p> Yolonda 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. </p> <p> Yolonda 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. </p> -
Shane Prillaman, CMCA, AMS
Regional Manager - Association Division
Shane brings a wealth of experience in customer relations and real estate to his current role at UPA. Known for his exceptional memory and ability...
<p> Shane brings a wealth of experience in customer relations and real estate to his current role at UPA. Known for his exceptional memory and ability to foster meaningful connections, he excels in delivering top-notch customer service. His dedication to understanding and addressing customer concerns has earned him a reputation for being honest, dependable, and kind. Outside of his professional commitments, Shane values time spent with family, often enjoying outdoor activities and movie nights together. </p> <p> With a Bachelor of Science in Governmental Administration from Christopher Newport University and a Virginia Real Estate license, Shane blends his educational background with practical experience. Before joining UPA, he successfully navigated the world of real estate as a Realtor, honing his skills in client management and strategic negotiations. His personal motto, "Treat everyone the way you would want to be treated," underscores his approach to leadership and interaction with others. </p>