Michael was born and raised in Valparaiso. After graduation from Valparaiso High School, he went on to pursue a degree in Aerospace Administration from Indiana State University. In addition to his degree from Indiana State he also earned a degree in Mortuary Science. Michael got his start with 1st American as a lifeguard and then as the pool manager at a property managed by the company. In 2008, upon completion of college, Michael accepted a full-time position with us. Michael’s responsibilities at 1st American have included Maintenance Technician, Assistant Maintenance Supervisor, Property Manager, Vice President, and Chief Operating Officer. In 2018, Michael was nominated and selected to be part of the IREM Next-Gen program. The program allowed Michael, along with a group of young professionals from around the country, to obtain his Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation in an 18-month accelerated course. In December of 2019, Michael officially became a CPM. Michael is a member of the 2020 IREM Next-Gen Advisory Board, Vice-President of the Northern Indiana IREM Chapter, and, in his free time, volunteers with his wife Sarah at Lakeshore PAWS in Valparaiso.

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.

Catherine first joined 1 st American in 2010 as a Property Manager. She stayed as a Property Manager until 2020, when she left to further her education in Real Estate. Catherine rejoined the company in March of 2022 as the Receptionist. Catherine brings over 20 years in Residential Management experience as well as the M-100 Certificate from the Community Associations Institute and is an Indiana licensed Real Estate Broker. She has been a lifetime Valparaiso native as well as raised her 3 sons. Catherine is a proud supporter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Pancreatic Cancer Research, and Alzheimer’s Association.

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.