2025 AAWNC Board Nomination Bios
AAWNC Board Nomination Information
Board nominees were asked to provide a short bio and answer the following five (5) questions.
- Why do you want to serve on the board?
- What are your 2026 goals for the association?
- What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
AAWNC board of director's serve a two-year term.
The election will take place on November 5, 2025 at the annual meeting – meeting details.
Voting and Electing the Board
During the membership meeting, members vote for five new members to serve on AAWNC's board of directors. The 2026 AAWNC board of directors will be comprised of five newly elected members and four previously elected. Board Positions will be determined by the board at the first meeting.
- All votes must be cast in person at the annual meeting. Please register to join us on November 5, 2025.
- A quorum of 10% of the membership must be at the meeting for the vote to be valid.
- Companies and organizations are members, each member has only one vote.
- A maximum of three supplier members can be elected to the board of directors.
- Votes will be conducted by secret ballot – unless there is only one nomination for a position.
- Proxies must include a written statement authorizing the proxy and completed ballot.
Attending the meeting is free and members do not need to remain for the meeting after voting.
2026 Nominees: Vote for Five
Board Owner/Operator Nominee
- Alexis O'Buckley - Ansley at Roberts Lake
- Beth Messer - Northside Merrimon
- Eliza King - Pegasus Residential
- Emily Kirchmeyer - Pegasus Residential
- Joshua Ward - Hawthorne at Weaverville
- Michelle Kingson - Pegasus Residential
- Rae Modlin - Pegasus Residential
- Tahliah Chelette - Westmont Commons
Board Supplier Nominee
- Anne Smith - College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving
- Katy Duncan - Loebsack & Brownlee PLLC
- Nick Gomez - Bar-B-Clean of Asheville
- Page Morgan - Loebsack & Brownlee PLLC
Board Nominee Question Responses
Alexis O'Buckley - Board Owner/Operator Nominee
BIO: I have been a dedicated professional in the apartment industry for over six years and am truly passionate about my career. I am an active member of the Apartment Association, regularly attending association events and contributing as a member of the Events Committee. In 2024, I graduated from the Lyceum Program, and I’ve had the honor of being nominated twice for 20 on the Rise. I bring energy, commitment, and a strong sense of community to everything I do.
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I am eager to serve on the Board to continue growing both personally and professionally within the industry. I want to contribute my ideas, share my experience, and collaborate with other board members to support and strengthen our association.
What are your goals for the Association next year?
One of my key goals is to increase engagement and outreach to professionals from other management companies. I believe that by bringing more voices and ideas to the table, we can foster innovation, inclusivity, and stronger participation within the association.
What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
Over the past six years, I’ve gained comprehensive experience in the apartment industry, working in various roles that have deepened my knowledge of property operations, resident relations, and community engagement. I have also provided support to other properties during new property transitions and due diligence walks in Charlotte, Charleston, and Greenville. Additionally, I collaborated on the implementation of new system training as part of the pilot group. My involvement in association events reflects my ongoing commitment to professional growth and industry excellence.
Eliza King - Board Owner/Operator Nominee
BIO: With nearly seven years of experience in the multifamily industry, I currently serve as a District Manager with Pegasus Residential, overseeing assets in the Asheville, NC and Greenville, SC markets. I bring a strong background in leadership, guiding teams to overcome challenging markets, drive high performance, and optimize asset management to maximize occupancy and NOI.
In addition to my professional role, I serve as Vice President of the Apartment Association of Western North Carolina and chair the Education Committee, contributing to the growth and development of the industry.
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I would like to continue serving on the AAWNC board because I am deeply committed to giving back to the industry and supporting Western North Carolina professionals. My goal is to help our board grow and thrive while providing meaningful educational resources and programs that empower our members to excel in their careers. Serving on this board is very meaningful to me, as this industry has given me so much, and I am eager to continue contributing to its success and raising the profile of our association on a national level. I am passionate about growing our membership, enhancing the value we provide, and fostering strong, lasting relationships, and I believe I can be a strong asset in advancing our mission.
What are your goals for the Association next year?
My goals for the apartment association next year focus on expanding educational opportunities and increasing our involvement in philanthropy. Education is extremely important to me, and I recognize the privilege of attending state and national conferences—opportunities that are not always accessible to everyone, and which are not always offered consistently within management companies. I aim to bring high-profile speakers to our region, providing members with a meaningful glimpse of the impact these conferences can have. Offering seminars, leadership classes, and educational programs specifically designed to engage maintenance staff will be a priority, ensuring that all members have access to professional growth opportunities.
Equally important is giving back to our community. I am passionate about strengthening AAWNC’s involvement with local charities that support members of our community, creating initiatives where housing and people come together for the greater good. By combining education and philanthropy, I hope to make our association stronger, more inclusive, and more impactful for all members.
What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
I have over six years of experience in the apartment industry, beginning my career as a leasing consultant and progressing through various roles to my current position with Pegasus Residential. I have been with Pegasus since the start of my career and am committed to supporting the company’s growth in the Western North Carolina market.
In addition to my professional experience, I have been an active member of the AAWNC board since 2023, participating in committee meetings, socials, educational events, and attending state and national conferences. I also serve as a committee member on the AANC Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Committee, further contributing to the development and inclusivity of our industry.
Joshua Ward - Board Owner/Operator Nominee
BIO: With nearly six years in the multifamily industry, I’ve built a reputation for strong leadership and a commitment to leaving every community and region better than I found them. I currently oversee Hawthorne at Weaverville and joined Hawthorne in September 2024 after spending over four years in Charlotte.
A proud Western North Carolina native, I enjoy spending as much time as possible exploring our beautiful mountains and connecting with the local community.
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I would love the opportunity to serve on the Board because I’ve personally experienced the positive impact that AAWNC has had on my own growth and development. I want to give back by supporting my region, amplifying the voices of those within the property management community, and helping to usher in a new generation of industry leaders.
What are your goals for the Association next year?
My goals for the Association next year include strengthening engagement and expanding fundraising efforts to create more opportunities for education, networking, and professional development. I want to help welcome and empower the next generation of property management professionals while continuing to build a stronger, more connected community.
What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
I’ve been in the apartment industry for almost six years, beginning my career during the height of the COVID lock-downs as a leasing consultant in Asheville. I later relocated to Charlotte, where I spent four years growing through roles from Leasing Consultant to Assistant Community Manager, and eventually to Community Manager.
In September 2024, I returned home to Western North Carolina—just two weeks before Hurricane Helene devastated our region. Through both COVID and Helene, I’ve learned that adaptability is one of my greatest strengths. These experiences have shaped me into a more compassionate, resilient, and grounded leader, dedicated to serving both my team and my community with empathy and purpose.
Michelle Kingson - Board Owner/Operator Nominee
BIO: Michelle Kingson is an award-winning multifamily housing leader and District Manager with Pegasus Residential, where she oversees a diverse portfolio of communities in the Asheville, NC region. Known for her results-driven yet people-focused leadership style, Michelle has consistently driven occupancy to market-leading levels, executed multimillion-dollar capital projects, and cultivated high-performing teams that excel in both operations and resident experience. With a strong background in budgeting, financial performance, and strategic planning, she has built a reputation for transforming underperforming assets into thriving communities that deliver impressive ROI for ownership groups.
Beyond her operational success, Michelle is deeply engaged in advancing the multifamily industry through mentorship, professional development, and service. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Apartment Association of Western North Carolina, where she champions education, innovation, and community impact initiatives. Driven by a passion for people and performance, she is not only shaping the future of her communities but also inspiring the next generation of multifamily leaders.
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I want to continue serving on the board because I am passionate about advancing our industry, strengthening our local multifamily community, and building meaningful connections that drive growth and innovation. Serving has given me the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded professionals, contribute to education and advocacy initiatives, and create a positive impact for both our members and residents. I believe my experience, energy, and vision can help further the board’s mission, and I am eager to continue contributing fresh ideas, leadership, and dedication to ensure our association remains a powerful resource and voice for our industry and a shining star within our state.
What are your goals for the Association next year?
My goals for the association next year are to strengthen member engagement, elevate professional development opportunities, and expand our community impact. I want to help drive innovative education initiatives that prepare our members for the rapidly changing multifamily landscape, while also focusing on mentorship programs that grow the next generation of leaders. Enhancing advocacy efforts at both the local and state levels will be a priority to ensure our industry’s voice is heard, especially as legislation continues to affect housing. Lastly, I want to help create more meaningful networking and community service opportunities that not only unite our members but also demonstrate our industry’s positive influence within the communities we serve.
What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
I have over 5 years of progressive leadership experience in the multifamily housing industry, currently serving as a District Manager with Pegasus Residential, where I oversee a diverse portfolio of communities in the Asheville region. My background includes expertise in property operations, financial management, lease-ups, marketing strategy, and multimillion-dollar capital projects, with a proven track record of driving occupancy, revenue growth, and resident satisfaction. Throughout my career, I have developed and led high-performing teams, coached future leaders, and implemented innovative strategies that consistently exceed ownership and client expectations. In addition to my operational achievements, I am an active industry leader, serving on the Board of Directors for the Apartment Association of Western North Carolina and contributing to multiple committees that focus on education, NextGen leadership, and community engagement.
Tahliah Chelette - Board Owner/Operator Nominee
BIO: My name is Tahliah Chelette I work at Westmont Commons. Originally from a background in Art History and shaped by a love for travel, I moved to Asheville in 2020—just three months before the world shut down. After years in the food industry, I found my way into housing in 2023 thanks to our very own Madam President, Bethany Lykins. I was a manager and social media lead at Fahrenheit Pizza in South Asheville, a role I loved so much that I briefly returned to it before finding my way back to housing this year. Though I work in Asheville, I’ve called Canton home since 2022. Outside of work, I’m usually in my garden or living my best river life—paddleboarding the Pigeon, strolling the Riverwalk, or soaking up the sun on the rocks. I’m passionate about people, community, and creating spaces that feel like home.
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I’m passionate about providing quality, affordable housing with compassion and authenticity—values I’ve embraced since starting in housing in 2023. After stepping away briefly, I returned with a deeper understanding of where I truly thrive: in older, well-loved communities where I can connect personally with residents and make a real difference. My heart lies in creating welcoming, community-focused spaces that feel like home. I believe being on the board of the WNC Apartment Association will allow me to extend that impact—sharing ideas, supporting others in the industry, and helping shape a more resident-friendly future for North Carolina.
What are your goals for the Association next year?
If given the opportunity to serve on the AAWNC Board, I want to help others in the industry reconnect with the passion behind what we do—not just providing housing, but creating a true sense of home. We’re often the first point of contact someone has with Western North Carolina, and that moment matters.
In today’s world, which can often feel overwhelming or impersonal, I believe it's more important than ever to lead with empathy and compassion. Home should be a safe, welcoming space, and we play a vital role in making that possible. I also hope to bring more local life and personality into the often corporate-feeling world of housing. While professionalism is crucial, so is remembering the human side of our work. By bridging that gap, we can create communities where both residents and industry professionals feel more connected and valued. Additionally, I would advocate for greater language inclusion in our leasing practices. While Fair Housing ensures everyone has a fair opportunity to lease, our current standardized North Carolina lease is only available in English. This presents a real barrier in a region where thousands of residents speak other languages—particularly Spanish, but also Chinese, French, Arabic, and many more. Western North Carolina is more diverse than many realize, and we must reflect that in how we communicate with our residents. Offering leases in multiple languages is not just good practice—it’s a meaningful step toward equity and access for all.
What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
I started working in housing with Hawthorne as a leasing agent in 2022. I did leave briefly for about a year and have just recently come back into housing in June of this year. I am the Assistant Community manager at Westmont Commons, a Greystar community.
Anne Smith - Board Supplier Nominee
BIO: Anne Smith is the co-owner of College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk & Moving of WNC, which she runs alongside her husband. A natural connector and leader, Anne also serves as an Ambassador for the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, where she loves building relationships that strengthen the local business community.
Outside of work, Anne treasures time with her husband and two amazing adult daughters and her labradoodle, Layla—who is the H.U.N.K. squad’s chief morale officer. When she’s not leading her team or cheering on others’ success, you’ll find her out on a mountain trail or enjoying live music around Asheville.
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I am interested in serving on this board because I believe deeply in the power of community here in Western North Carolina. The Apartment Association of WNC plays a role in shaping how community members live, work, and connect—and I'd like to contribute to that mission. I’ve seen firsthand how collaboration strengthens our region. Serving on this board would be an opportunity to help foster that collaboration. Western North Carolina is special because of its sense of connection and care for one another. I’m passionate about bringing that same spirit to the board—listening, building relationships, and finding creative solutions that serve both our members, suppliers and the broader community.
What are your goals for the Association next year?
My goals this year center around strengthening communication and connection within our association — especially with maintenance and leasing managers who are on the front lines every day. I'd like to help create more intentional touchpoints that make them feel supported, informed, and valued, and to collaborate on developing meaningful events - not just networking opportunities, but gatherings that offer practical takeaways and build relationships across roles.
What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
I have been a small business owner for five+ years in a service-based, values-oriented company that has many touchpoints with the apartment community in the broader WNC region. I’ve been a member of the Apartment Association of WNC for over two years in a supplier role. Through my role with College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk & Moving, we work closely with community managers, leasing teams, and maintenance staff which has provided insight into the day-to-day challenges of resident transitions and property upkeep, as well as the importance of strong communication and collaboration within the industry.
Katy Duncan - Board Supplier Nominee
BIO: Katy Duncan is a paralegal with Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC, supporting the firm’s South Carolina operations. She currently serves as AAWNC's Supplier Council Co-Chair and serves on two NAA Committees. Outside of work, she enjoys travel, live music, and spending time with her family.
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I’ve seen firsthand how AAWNC strengthens our industry by connecting professionals and promoting a true sense of community. Serving on the Board would give me the opportunity to help continue that momentum. I want to help drive initiatives that make membership more engaging and valuable.
What are your goals for the Association next year?
My focus is on member engagement. I’d like to help:
- Strengthen communication between committees and members to encourage consistent participation.
- Support community outreach efforts that highlight the apartment industry’s positive local impact.
I believe the stronger our connections, the stronger our association. That’s the foundation I want to help build on.
What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
Before joining Loebsack & Brownlee I spent over a decade in property management. In my current role I work directly with property managers and owners across the state, assisting with the evictions process. This dual perspective, both operational and legal, gives me a unique perspective in this industry.
Thank you again for the opportunity to serve and contribute. I look forward to supporting AAWNC’s continued growth and impact in 2026.
Nick Gomez - Board Supplier Nominee
BIO: I am a serial entrepreneur in the Asheville area with a background in engineering. I am currently a project manager working in my remote role while I run my two businesses. The business that brought me to the AAWNC is Bar-B-Clean.
We are the premier provider for grill cleaning, repairs, and sales! I love getting involved with groups I am associated with and look forward to seeing how I can serve the AAWNC.
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I love diving headfirst into any new group I join. I like to go beyond the surface networking relationships and work with a team to better any group I am a part of!
I have held quite a few leadership positions in my professional career, so I am comfortable navigating the challenges that come with serving on a board. I also think I can bring a fresh outsider perspective as a supplier.
What are your goals for the Association next year?
I would love to help grow and make a concerted effort to reach out to new communities in the area to get them involved. I also want to make sure we keep the suppliers and teams working behind the scenes at the communities involved as well.
What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
No experience in the apartment industry but have served in leadership roles with both direct and indirect reports for almost my entire career. My property management company is somewhat relevant, but we do not do apartments.
Page Morgan - Board Supplier Nominee
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I want to serve on the AAWNC Board because I love to help others. Fortunately, my avocation and vocation merged to enable me to simultaneously help people through my career where I have been practicing law for over thirty years. In my spare time I served my community by running for office and spent eight years on the Shelby School Board, sixteen years on the ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) Board, and last year it was my honor to serve on the AAWNC’s Education Committee. I am also the only person to ever serve two terms as President of the Gaston County Bar.
During my years of Board service, I’ve learned plenty of people have good ideas but they need help executing these ideas. There’s no better feeling then watching someone take their idea and seeing it bloom into concrete plans of action. Years of practicing law has given me ability to analyze complex situations to help litigants come up with compromise, but actionable, solutions. I have also planned fun entertaining seminars that people loved attending!
In my spare time I enjoy traveling with my husband, Superior Court Judge (ret) Jim, and our three amazing children, Sam who lives in Brooklyn, and Jay and Lily, who live in Australia.
What are your goals for the Association next year?
- Survey members frequently to ascertain their needs and fulfill them.
- Plan more seminars and increase participation rates among members. We are a member driven group and continuing member education is critical.
- Encourage members to bring a potential new recruit to at least two events .
- Encourage professional networking in formal and informal settings.
What is your professional background in the apartment industry?
My professional background in the apartment industry is unique. I read contracts and leases on a daily basis and have represented my firm, Loebsack & Brownlee PLLC, in thousands of cases across western North Carolina. I am the only attorney seeking a spot on this Board and as an attorney, it is my professional obligation to represent my clients to the best of my ability. I truly feel that I would be of great use to the Board of Directors for AAWNC and I look forward to hearing your decision.