RealWorld 2026 Recap: What Multifamily Is Talking About

Krista Hurley is the Industry Principal for Agentic AI Workforce Solutions at RealPage, where she leads sales, business development, launches, and beta initiatives for innovative multifamily technologies

With more than 14 years in the multifamily industry, Krista began her career as a leasing consultant in a call center before moving into implementations, account management, and industry leadership. Her experience has given her a deep understanding of product integrations, client needs, and the connectedness of the multifamily technology ecosystem.

Krista is the host of Multifamily Talks a Realpage Podcast and winner of GlobeSt. Women of Influence for Proptech. She is also a member of the Upper State Apartment Association in Greenville, South Carolina, and participates in RealPage employee resource groups, including EMPOW-HER and BE WELL.

Melanie French is a respected multifamily executive with more than 30 years of experience spanning property operations, strategic planning, organizational development, human capital, and financial execution across all asset types. She has held senior leadership roles with Cortland, AIMCO, and DLP Capital.

As RR Living’s first Chief Executive Officer, Melanie oversees all strategic and operational functions, ensuring each owner’s business plan is executed with precision and integrity. Her leadership philosophy centers on sustainable growth through talent development—creating communities where more than 50,000 residents feel truly at home.

Melanie is an active member of the Forbes® Council, serves on the Multifamily Innovation® Council, and is the Treasurer of the National Board of Entryway. She is also a recognized keynote speaker, presenting at leading industry events such as the Multifamily Women® Summit and the Smart Spaces Conference, as well as IMN, NMHC, NAA, MFE, and Bisnow®.

Prior to joining RR Living, Melanie served as Managing Principal and President at DLP Capital, overseeing operations across more than 12,000 units. At Cortland, she grew the management platform from 9,000 to over 50,000 units while managing more than $200 million in renovations. Her 13-year tenure at AIMCO included roles from RVP to SVP of Learning & Organizational Development, supporting over 200,000 apartment homes nationwide.

She holds designations as an IREM® CPM, SPHR, and DDI® Master Trainer & Facilitator and is widely recognized as a thought leader in the multifamily industry.

Melanie began her career as a leasing consultant, where she discovered her passion for turning apartments into long-term homes. Known for her approachable, people-first leadership style, she is celebrated for mentoring future leaders and building high-performing teams.

Outside of work, Melanie enjoys reading, boating, and traveling. She values time spent with her grandchildren and shares life’s adventures with her husband of nearly 40 years, whose steadfast support has been a constant throughout her career.

Lori Oden is the Executive Vice President at United Apartment Group, where she plays a pivotal role in leading the operations of the market rate and affordable portfolio. Lori's journey with United Apartment Group began in 2006, and her career trajectory from Staff Accountant to her current leadership position highlights her deep expertise in financial management and her commitment to operational excellence.

Lori holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in accounting from the University of Texas at Arlington. To further enhance her expertise, she earned the prestigious Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation from the Institute of Real Estate Management. This combination of academic credentials and professional certification underscores Lori's comprehensive understanding of both the financial and operational aspects of property management.

Lori is known for her client-centric approach, consistently prioritizing the needs and goals of her clients. Her hands-on ownership attitude, along with her innovative thinking and unwavering commitment, has driven the success of United Apartment Group and its clients. Lori’s leadership, loyalty, and dedication are key to the continued excellence of the organization.