Copper Circle is proud to celebrate another successful year of investing in the future of the rental housing industry! Through its 2026 Scholarship Program, Copper Circle awarded $25,885 in educational funding to 24 industry professionals, helping individuals advance their careers, strengthen their skills, and pursue new leadership opportunities.
This year's scholarships supported six professional development programs, including industry credentials, leadership training, and conference attendance. Two new opportunities were introduced in 2026: the Leadership Lyceum and the Apartment Association of North Carolina (AANC) Conference scholarship.
These investments reflect Copper Circle's ongoing commitment to removing financial barriers to professional development and creating opportunities for growth throughout the rental housing industry.
Celebrating Our 2026 Scholarship Recipients
Copper Circle congratulates the following professionals who received scholarships in 2026:
Certified Apartment Manager (CAM)
8 Recipients | $11,112 Awarded
The CAM credential helps on-site property managers strengthen their knowledge of financial management, leasing operations, resident retention, and legal compliance.
Brandon Young – Greystar
Ranada Wooten – Drucker+Falk
Danielle Jackson – Helm Property Management
Erica Gregory – Fortis
Kierra Beasley – RPM Living
Natalie Moore – RPM Living
Adrianna Smith – Camden
Shunie Boyce – MMS Group
Certificate for Apartment Maintenance Technicians (CAMT)
6 Recipients | $6,600 Awarded
The CAMT program provides maintenance professionals with valuable technical training in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, mechanical systems, and safety practices.
Matthew Devault – Alta Ivy
Steven Feliz – Axis Crossroads
Timothy St. Hilaire – The Maggie
Louis Sedei – Clarion Crossing
Christopher Wilkes – Elevate The Crossings
Matthew Shane Dollar – Allora Southview
Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS)
2 Recipients | $3,178 Awarded
The CAPS credential prepares industry professionals for advanced leadership responsibilities, including portfolio financial analysis, risk management, and strategic oversight.
Olivia Holland – Greystar
Fernando Daguerre – Avenue 5
Leadership Lyceum — New for 2026!
4 Recipients | $2,793 Awarded
Introduced as a new scholarship opportunity in 2026, the Leadership Lyceum supports the development of future industry and association leaders, including both owner/operator and supplier professionals.
Dennis Glenn
Brittany Clark
Danielle Leach
Kyle Sessoms
Certified Apartment Leasing Professional (CALP)
3 Recipients | $1,797 Awarded
The CALP credential helps leasing professionals build essential skills in marketing, conducting property tours, connecting with prospective residents, and closing leases.
Jayden Coleman – Greystar
Janice Nazar – Harbor Management Group
Raquiiba Williams – NWRavin
AANC Conference — New for 2026!
1 Recipient | $405 Awarded
Another new opportunity for 2026, this scholarship provides access to the Apartment Association of North Carolina's annual conference, offering valuable education, industry updates, and networking opportunities.
Emily Wiseman
Investing in People. Strengthening Our Industry.
With 24 scholarships awarded across six programs, Copper Circle's 2026 Scholarship Program represents more than a financial investment. Each scholarship creates an opportunity for an industry professional to gain new knowledge, pursue career advancement, and bring valuable skills back to their organization and community.
Copper Circle extends its congratulations to all 2026 scholarship recipients and its appreciation to the donors, sponsors, volunteers, and industry partners who help make these opportunities possible.
Together, we're investing in people, opening doors, and building a stronger future for the rental housing industry.
