News from the Chicago Chapter

PRODUCTIVITY, HAPPINESS AMONG KEY GOALS OF WELL BUILDING STANDARD

The WELL Building Standard, an evidence-based property performance system, is designed to deliver a return on investment that can lead to more productive and happy employees.

That was a major point made by Jaclyn Whitaker during an informative presentation during the IREM Chicago Chapter 23 September 14 meeting and luncheon at Maggiano’s restaurant in Oak Brook.

Senior Director of Technical Programs and Support at the International WELL Being Institute, Whitaker said the new property standard was “strictly about the occupants of a building,” not about the environmental performance of a building. “It’s a standard that determines whether a building has clean air, and that the water is good to drink,” she added.

Founded in 2014, the WELL program, which offers certifications, integrates scientific and medical research and literature on environmental health, behavioral factors, health outcomes and demographic risk factors that affect health with leading practices in building design and management.

Whitaker told IREM Chicago members, Industry Partners and guests that nine properties around the world have earned the WELL certification, and 262 certification projects totaling 53.9 million square feet in 23 nations are underway. Locally, IREM headquarters office in the REALTOR® Building is pursuing WELL certification.

Prior to the presentation, Chapter 23 business was conducted and announcements were made.

These IREM Chicago members were installed for earning industry designations:

• Anna Fudala, CPM®

• Shawn Heath-Person, CPM®

• Barbara Whitby, ARM®

Two members present were recognized for anniversaries: Dilia Saeedi, CPM® for 25 years of service and Nicole Redding, ARM® for 20 years of service.

Past President Dale Nusbaum, CPM® was honored for shooting a hole in one during the August Golf Outing at Kemper Lake Golf Club.

Also, June McCrory, CPM®, reported that the August Golf Outing and Silent Auction raised more than $14,000 for Almost Home Kids, the chapter’s official charity.

On a business note, 2015 Chapter President Kris Haskins, CPM® announced the 2017 Slate of Officers and conducted voting among members present.

And, these Industry Partners were recognized for sponsoring the September 14 meeting:

• CenterPoint Energy Services

• Clarence Davids & Company

• Community Investment Corporation

• Hayes Mechanical

• Inside-Out Company

• Showalter Roofing Service, Inc.

• Smart Elevators

• USA Fire Protection

• Valley Fire Protection Systems

• Westside Mechanical

The next Chapter 23 meeting will be held November 2, 2016 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Morton Arboretum.  The featured agenda item: Installation of 2017 officers.