News from the Chicago Chapter

Memories of a Tumultuous 2020, and Encouragement Toward a Better 2021

By Angela Aeschliman, CPM®
IREM Chicago 2020 President



My role as President of the Chicago IREM chapter has been much like my work experiences: Rewarding, challenging, and at times, overwhelming.

We started the new year with an installation at the Chicago Botanical gardens, then had a roaring great time at the Drake Hotel early in March during the PREMIER Awards.  So many of our members were recognized and also awarded top honors in the industry.  I could not be prouder to be part of this great organization.

Within a matter of days, all of our lives were turned upside down due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  At IREM Chicago we got busy writing helpful articles, speaking on panels, and serving on special task forces to distribute and communicate helpful resources for battling our new daily environments within property management of all asset classes.  Over the past several months IREM International has tirelessly converted educational offerings to web-based learning, contributed over 40 new courses that can be viewed via on demand learning, and offered some of the most pivotal and timely resources for COVID-19 to not only IREM members -- but to many other associations and groups--  becoming the go to resource for the industry.

This year many IREM Chicago members have dedicated hours to be at the forefront and continue to bring and show value to our industry as a whole.  I will say we demonstrate the same commitment every year, but as I am sure you can relate, this year has been like no other.  I strongly encourage you to get involved or continue to stay involved, speak up and add your experience and knowledge for the membership. We know we are stronger together with the vast experiences and knowledge everyone can share.

On a personal note, I have gained so much from IREM this year and from its members and Headquarters staff. I cannot even begin to describe how I was able to help and resolve tenant and ownership issues, manage our buildings, assist tenants through close down and reopening of buildings, re-evaluate rules and regulations and extra details in the cleaning needs, and many more tasks.  I commend all of my fellow managers in this same endeavor; always know we at IREM Chicago are always here to assist you in good times and bad.  Please reach out to your newest council members or Teri Lind to ask questions or share accomplishments, as we would like to recognize you.

I would also like to point out that without our Industry Partners -- and I really do mean partners -- we would have been far less effective navigating through this year.  I thank you all personally, professionally and as the immediate Past President of this chapter.

I know the new IREM Chicago Executive Council, led by Stephen Schimmel, will deliver wonderful opportunities for everyone to learn, grow, and network in the upcoming year, even if that comes via remote.  So let’s connect and share.  Thank you for a wonderful year as your President.