Stage II: Photo-Essay
Starting approximately February 7, the Stage I Finalists will be invited to enter the second stage of the competition. Stage II has four submission requirements, with a submission deadline of approximately March 15th.
- A 750-1000 word Photo-Essay (explaining why the Applicant feels they deserve to receive the “Manager of the Year” award)
- (3) Letters of Recommendation
- One from a volunteer Boardmember serving at an Association that you currently manage
- One from a Homeowner living at an Association that you currently manage, not currently serving on the Board
- One 1 from a Community Association Industry Professional of your choosing
- Headshot Photo
- Signed Publicity Waiver & Release Forms
Between approximately March 15 – March 27, the eligible submissions in each category will be judged to determine the Top 3 Finalists in each category. Applications will be judged on an “identity-blind” basis using a grading rubric that measures the degree to which the Manager has been responsible for major Association improvements and/or turnarounds, as described in the photo-essay, as well as the effectiveness of the writing, the relevance of the photos, and the influence of the recommendation letters.
The Top 3 Finalists in each category will be notified on approximately April 1, and awarded $500 vouchers to be used exclusively toward registration and travel cost associated with attending the CAI Annual Conference & Exhibition where the contest winners will be announced. These six finalists will also be entered into the third and final stage of the contest: Online Voting