One of the highlights of IREM's Fall Leadership Conference is the inaugural gala, in which IREM welcomed its 80th president, The Simon Companies' Christopher Mellen (above with outgoing president Lori Burger of Eugene Burger Management Co in the traditional "passing of the gavel"). There were introductory remarks by IREM CEO Russ Salzman and Brad Setser from gala sponsor Yardi, and two of Chris' colleagues read a letter written by The Simon Cos founder and president Franklin Simon who, as a mentor, introduced Chris to IREM.

The festivities included a touching tribute to Chris by his daughter Mandi, who was joined by his other children and his adorable grandson, Alexander. She detailed many heartwarming anecdotes of her father’s devotion to his family, as well as his dedication to IREM. "I am truly excited to continue shaping the real estate management industry and the future of IREM. Working together, the possibilities are endless," Chris says. The other two officers installed were Managementwest's J. Benjamin McGrew as secretary and treasurer, and Cushman & Wakefield's Michael Lanning as president-elect.

As always, there was plenty of dancing at the gala to celebrate.