Making a Difference Award: Celebrating Michael Mathis, Kentlands Manor, Donaldson
If you blended the generosity of a neighbor, the spirit of a teacher, the heart of a caregiver and the creativity of an artist, you would begin to understand Michael Mathis. As Property Manager of Kentlands Manor—Donaldson’s 200-unit senior community in Gaithersburg—Mike embodies what it truly means to make a difference. His impact is so profound, so personal and so consistent that he is the undeniable recipient of the 2025 PMA Making a Difference Award.
For Mike, property management has never been about buildings. It has always been about people. He knows every resident’s name—and often their children’s and grandchildren’s too. He understands their routines, their joys, their struggles and the subtle cues that reveal when someone may need a little extra care. That level of presence doesn’t come from a job description. It comes from heart.
Mike’s daily work reflects humility, compassion and extraordinary generosity. He cooks and delivers meals to residents who are homebound or unwell, often using produce he grows himself in the community garden he personally tends.
His painting classes brighten both hallways and spirits, and his original artwork hangs throughout the community—small gifts that bring daily joy. He purchases prizes for trivia night winners, not for the accolades, but because he delights in bringing fun into residents’ lives. He shows up for families during difficult moments, and he creates moments of laughter during joyful ones.
When asked why he gives so much of himself, Mike’s answer is simple: “I love the interaction. That’s why I’m here.”
Mike’s commitment doesn’t end at Kentlands Manor’s doors. He leads art classes for children during the annual Kentlands Oktoberfest—an event that draws more than 600 attendees—and organizes a moving Veterans Day program honoring local service members.
The community garden he created has expanded into more than 20 plots, and the weekly farmers market he organizes brings over 20 local vendors to the property, ensuring residents have fresh, healthy food and meaningful engagement with their neighborhood.
In everything he does, Mike demonstrates how multifamily housing can enrich not only residents’ quality of life but also the vibrancy of the broader community.
Mike leads with integrity and fairness, modeling the highest standards of ethical behavior. Residents trust him not just because he is reliable, but because he genuinely respects them. He honors their dignity, listens without judgment and fosters a culture of kindness that permeates every part of Kentlands Manor.
His approach demonstrates that ethical leadership is not an abstract principle—it is a daily practice, expressed through compassion, patience and an unwavering commitment to doing right by others.
Kentlands Manor is more than a place to live. Under Mike’s leadership, it is a place to belong. Residents participate in daily activities that promote social connection, wellness, creativity and joy—everything from Jeopardy-style trivia nights to chair aerobics, art classes, cooking demonstrations, holiday events and organized trips. Many of these programs regularly draw half the community, a testament to how meaningful and engaging they are.
Mike has built an environment where residents feel cared for, celebrated and supported. His influence has elevated not only Kentlands Manor, but also the entire conversation around what senior property management can—and should—be.
Mike Mathis sets a high bar for what it means to serve others. His actions—big and small—have profoundly shaped the lives of hundreds of seniors, enriched the Gaithersburg community and demonstrated the extraordinary impact one person can have when they lead with compassion.
For his unwavering kindness, his generosity of spirit and his remarkable ability to turn a property into a true home, we celebrate Michael Mathis as the recipient of the 2025 PMA Making a Difference Award.
His work exemplifies not just the best of property management, but the best of humanity.