Why Education and Mental Health Matter More Than Ever in Multifamily | Featuring Victoria Cowart

Title: Why Education and Mental Health Matter More Than Ever in MultifamilyEducation isn’t optional, it’s essential.As the multifamily industry continues to evolve, property management professionals are navigating increasing operational demands, resident expectations, workforce challenges, and mental health concerns. Success today requires more than technical knowledge—it requires engaged leaders, ongoing education, and organizations willing to invest in the well-being of their teams.On this episode of The Associated Podcast, Bryan and Todd sit down with Victoria Cowart, Vice President of Education at PetScreening, for a conversation about leadership, association engagement, professional development, mental health, and creating pathways to opportunity within the multifamily industry.With more than 35 years of industry experience, Victoria shares her journey from leasing professional to association leader, educator, and industry advocate. She discusses her role in helping establish the Charleston Apartment Association, her leadership experience with the South Carolina Apartment Association and National Apartment Association, and why education remains one of the most powerful tools for career growth and industry advancement. The conversation also highlights Entryway, an organization helping individuals facing barriers to employment build meaningful careers in the rental housing industry.In this episode, you'll learn:• How Victoria helped launch the Charleston Apartment Association• Why advocacy and association involvement remain critical to the future of the industry• The difference between attendance and true engagement in volunteer organizations• How education creates confidence, consistency, and career growth• Emerging trends in apartment association programming and events• Why mental health has become a growing focus across multifamily organizations• How leaders can create healthier, more resilient workplace cultures• The value of Mental Health First Aid training for industry professionals• How organizations like Entryway are creating opportunities and strengthening the industry's workforceFrom founding local associations to educating thousands of industry professionals across the country, Victoria offers a unique perspective on what it takes to build stronger organizations, stronger teams, and stronger leaders. Her insights serve as a reminder that investing in people—through education, engagement, wellness initiatives, and career opportunities—remains one of the most important investments any company or association can make.Guest Bio:Victoria Cowart is the Vice President of Education at PetScreening and a nationally recognized educator, speaker, and multifamily industry leader. She brings more than 35 years of experience in property management, association leadership, fair housing compliance, and professional development.Victoria helped establish the Charleston Apartment Association and later served as President of the South Carolina Apartment Association. She has also served as a Regional Vice President for the National Apartment Association and chaired multiple NAA committees, including the Legislative Committee.Throughout her career, Victoria has been passionate about advocacy, education, and helping industry professionals build successful careers. She is a Certified Property Manager (CPM), NAAEI faculty member, and certified Mental Health First Aid instructor. In her current role, she leads educational initiatives for PetScreening while speaking at conferences and events across the country on topics including fair housing, assistance animals, leadership, and mental wellness.Known for her engaging presentation style and commitment to helping others succeed, Victoria continues to be one of the most respected voices in the rental housing industry.Connect with Victoria Cowart on LinkedIn HERE.CONNECT WITH US!Hit subscribe and get ready for a fresh take on the apartment association world!Bryan Holladay on LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-holladay-10003219Todd Whitlow on LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/todd-whitlow-b7800529CLTPR Management on LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/company/cltpr-managementCLTPR Management Website:www.cltprmanagement.comThe Associated Podcast:www.cltprmanagement.com/podBrownlee, Whitlow, & Praet on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/brownleewhitlowpraet