Fireside Chat Recap: Wisdom, Wine, and Community

Reflecting on Leadership, Legacy, and What’s Next for Multifamily in Lubbock

Last night’s LAA Owner Social brought together seasoned leaders, great conversation, and a whole lot of West Texas hospitality. With glasses raised and stories flowing, the night’s highlight was a Fireside Chat featuring three former LAA Presidents: Marc McDougal (McDougal Companies), Dave Marcinkowski (Madera Residential), and Drew Gray (Stellar Development).

These long-time industry leaders shared hard-earned lessons, current concerns, and their hopes for the future of multifamily housing in our region.

Lessons from the Past and Present

Each panelist reflected on their time at the helm of LAA and the pivotal moments they led through:

• Drew Gray, who served as President in 2020, talked about navigating the uncertainty of COVID-19. Under his leadership, LAA pivoted quickly to keep members connected, informed, and supported through one of the most disruptive times in our industry’s history.

• Dave Marcinkowski emphasized the need for ongoing advocacy, not just during crises. He reminded us that being involved in policy year-round is how we earn a lasting seat at the table.

• Marc McDougal drove home the importance of active membership. “You get out what you put in,” he said, encouraging owners to show up, stay involved, and help grow the association’s reach.

Facing Today’s Industry Challenges

The conversation also addressed what owners and operators are up against right now:

• Rising costs — from insurance and property taxes to labor and construction — are squeezing margins across the board.

• Technology and AI are rapidly transforming how we manage properties. Dave encouraged embracing the change, while Drew noted the budget pressures that come with innovation.

• Operational discipline remains essential. Marc reminded everyone that some basics never go out of style: know your numbers, protect your investments, and engage in policy work.

The Power of Community

One of the strongest themes of the night was the value of community. From navigating the eviction moratoriums during COVID to supporting local nonprofits, Lubbock’s multifamily industry has proven that when we come together, we can weather any storm.

The panelists also spoke about the importance of mentorship and investing in future leaders. Whether it’s through sharing knowledge, inviting someone to a meeting, or encouraging involvement, lifting others up keeps our industry strong.

Grateful for a Memorable Night

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Marc, Dave, and Drew for sharing their wisdom, and to everyone who joined us for this meaningful evening of connection and conversation.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Chadwell Supply and Zillow, for making this event possible. Events like this remind us that while the work is hard, it’s also deeply rewarding—and that community will always be our greatest strength.