Michael was born and raised in Valparaiso, Indiana. After graduating from Valparaiso High School, he earned a degree in Aerospace Administration from Indiana State University. Additionally, Michael holds a degree in Mortuary Science from Ivy Tech Community College. His professional journey began with 1st American Management, where he started during high school as a lifeguard and eventually became the pool manager during summers while home from college at one of the properties managed by 1st American. Upon completing his college education in 2008, Michael transitioned to a full-time role within the company.

Throughout his tenure at 1st American, Michael has taken on various roles, including maintenance technician, assistant maintenance supervisor, property manager, vice president, and chief operating officer. He currently serves as president.

In 2018, Michael was nominated and selected to participate in the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) Next-Gen program. This initiative provided Michael and a cohort of young professionals from across the country with an accelerated 18-month course to obtain the Certified Property Manager (CPM®) designation. In December 2019, Michael officially earned his CPM® designation.

On a local level, Michael has been actively involved with IREM Northern Indiana, previously serving as Vice President and currently holding the position of President. Nationally, he has contributed to IREM as a past member of the IREM Next-Gen Advisory Board and is currently a member of the IREM Leadership Advisory Council. Additionally, Michael is on the slate of nominees for the position of Regional Vice President for the 2025-2026 term.

In his leisure time, Michael enjoys spending time with his dogs Cabela and Konerko, traveling, fishing, gardening, and supporting charitable organizations such as Lakeshore PAWS, the Boys and Girls Club of NWI, and other local causes.

Gina earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Indiana University Northwest. After completing the experience requirements, Gina became a licensed CPA in August 1999 and is a current member of the Indiana CPA Society. She has been employed in the accounting field since 1994, with experience in public accounting and private industry. In 1995, Gina began working exclusively in property management and joined 1st American Management two years later. After 20 years as the Accounting Manager, supervising the Accounting staff and performing Accounting functions for 1st American Management’s portfolio of properties, Gina accepted the position of Chief Financial Officer of 1st American Management Co., Inc. Gina is responsible for all accounting functions for the company including accounts payable, accounts receivable, financial statements and payroll. She also manages the entire office staff, and administers the company health insurance and IRA plans. Her accounting education continues on a regular basis with online courses, self-study, and live seminars.

Marianne has been with 1st American Management since 2001. She started off as a receptionist, worked her way up to Executive Assistant and is currently our Vice President of Operations / Assistant Office Manager. Marianne is a lifelong Valparaiso resident and graduated from Indiana University Northwest with a Bachelor’s degree in English. Her prior work experience focused primarily on customer service and CAD work in a manufacturing environment. She then spent a brief time as a full-time mom, eventually joining 1st American on a part-time basis and then full-time as her children grew older. Marianne and her family are active and financial supporters of the Alzheimer’s Association and breast cancer charities.

Mandi Tognarelli began her career as Maintenance Coordinator in July 2020. In her role, she leads a team responsible for the maintenance and general upkeep of properties & facilities. She is a graduate of Kankakee Valley High School and came to 1st American Management with 19 years of customer service, scheduling, and administrative experience. Mandi and her family are active supporters of Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Lissa Baldwin joined 1^st American Management in November of 2023 as the Maintenance Administrative Assistant. She joins the team with over 23 years of experience in administrative and office work. Her years of experience came from working within a children’s home – starting as a houseparent with her husband, gradually being promoted from Administrative Assistant to Development Director. During her career, Lissa earned her Certificate in Fundraising Management from IU Lilly School of Philanthropy. She enjoys her time off with her four children and husband.