Student Spotlight

Chip O'Kelley

Area Manager|First Communities Management

This past year has been a whirlwind of changes for me but in the best way possible. Having just passed my exam to obtain my CAM, I feel incredibly grateful for everyone who has impacted me in this new phase of life. The education through our associations has prepared me for where I have been and where I am going. Starting with the leadership Lyceum program through the FAA that better prepared me for the roles that I served when I was Secretary and Education Chair for SWFAA (South West Florida Apartment Association) and as a delegate on the board for FAA.

I have realized the importance of being an active part of my local association and all the opportunities they have provided for personal growth in our industry. This experience has given me an appreciation and a strong commitment and belief in all of the organization's work from local boards such as AAGO, FAA & NAA.

These training and tools that have been passed down through the associations have prepared me as I take on a new role with my company, First Communities as an area manager beginning in December. The information and experience have helped me succeed at spreading First Communities' mission of “Creating relationships and meaningful moments with all who walk through our doors”.

I look forward to the new year, and serving on the AAGO board of directors for 2022 and am excited about the opportunities it will provide to continue to allow me to grow as I get ready to take on my next certification, CAPS. I want to give special thanks to Holli Noel, AE for SWFAA, for always continuing to challenge me to grow, Chip Tatum, (also known as the cooler Chip), and the team and board at AAGO for welcoming me with open arms when I relocated to central Florida, and finally First Communities for believing in me and supporting me in the opportunity to serve our associations.

- Chip O'Kelley