ENGAGE 25: MEET THE VOICES SHAPING WASHINGTON’S HOUSING FUTURE
Join us October 22–23, 2025, at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue, WA for ENGAGE25, the Rental Housing Association of Washington’s Fall Expo + Annual Business Meeting—where ideas spark action, and industry leaders gather to learn, connect, and lead.
This year’s event brings together an unmatched lineup of speakers from across the political, legal, business, and housing spectrum. Whether you're here to deepen your policy insights or to build real-world solutions for your rental housing operations, ENGAGE25 offers access to the brightest minds guiding the future of housing in Washington State. ENGAGE25 isn’t just about learning—it’s about action, with a special RHA PAC candidate forums and a dedicated Happy Hour and Public Officials Mix & Minglecreating dynamic spaces for advocacy, conversation, and real connection.
Amy Walen
State Senate Candidate, LD 48 & WA State House of Representatives, LD 48, Position 2 (D).
Amy has served on the Kirkland City Council and as Mayor before being elected to the State Legislature.
Cathy Moore
Former City of Seattle, Council Member & King County Judge.Cathy brings a wealth of judicial and legislative experience to urban housing and equity conversations.
Chad Magendanz
WA State Senate Candidate, LD 5 (R). Chad is a former state representative and Issaquah School Board president, known for his bipartisan work in education and budget reform.
Diana Perez
City of Vancouver, Council Member. Councilmember Perez is an advocate for equity and environmental justice, she brings decades of public service in natural resource management.
Jared Nieuwenhuis
City of Bellevue, Council Member.Jared was first elected in 2017 and focuses on neighborhoods, business support, and effective local government. Jared served as deputy mayor & represents the city on several regional boards.
Jeremie Dufault
WA State Representative, LD 15 (R). A real estate developer and Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel, Jeremie advocates for veteran affairs, housing, and business growth. 
John Hines
City of Tacoma, Council Member & Mayoral Candidate.Councilmember Hines champions public safety, education, and inclusive city planning.
Jon Pascal
City of Kirkland, Council Member.Councilmember Pascal is a longtime transportation advocate and planning commissioner in Kirkland. He has helped lead numerous policy and neighborhood initiatives.
Jonathan Bingle
City of Spokane, Council Member.
Councilmember Bingle is known for his small business leadership and focus on public safety, homelessness, and tax reform.
Kevin Schilling
City of Burien, Mayor & Candidate, WA State House, LD 33 (D).With a background in economics and community service, Mayor Schilling focuses on homelessness, housing, and neighborhood safety.
Michelle Caldier
WA State Representative, LD 26 &Senate Candidate.
Dr. Caldier is a dentist and legislator
who has advocated for healthcare
access and fiscal accountability in
Olympia.
Stephanie Mora
City of Burien, Council Member.Stephanie is a long-time community volunteer, homeschooling mother of five, and strong advocate for public safety and services for families.
Chester Baldwin
RHAWA Lobbyist and Executive Director,
Washington Business Properties Association.An experienced attorney and lobbyist
advocating for housing and property
rights, with a background in law,
healthcare, and government affairs.
Christopher Cutting
Attorney, Cutting Law Office &RHAWA Board VP
Christopher specializes in landlord-
tenant law and regularly testifies
before the legislature on housing
policy.
Eric Steven
Principal, Steven Law Office.Eric focuses on landlord representation,
fair housing law, and legal education
across the Northwest.
Jackson Maynard
Executive Director, Citizen ActionDefense Fund.
Jackson is a constitutional attorney
advocating for property rights and
responsible governance.
Julie Martiniello
Partner, Dimension Law Group.
Julie specializes in estate planning,
probate, business, and real estate law with a personal, client-centered approach.
Kaitlyn Jackson
Director of Legal Services, DevCoResidential Group.
An expert in landlord-tenant litigation and compliance, Kaitlyn is a CLE speaker and RHAWA legislative
leader.
Kevin Roberts
Partner, Roberts Freebourn.Kevin is a seasoned civil litigator known for his work on employment
law, eminent domain, and real estate
litigation.
Rob Mckenna
Former WA State Attorney General.
Nationally recognized attorney known for his work on data privacy, property rights, and
U.S. Supreme Court advocacy.
Sean Flynn
President & Executive Director, RHAWA.
Leads RHAWA’s strategic direction
and advocacy, drawing on
experience in real estate law, trust & estate litigation.
Scott Pritchard
Partner, Stoel Rives LLP.Scott is a litigator focused on real estate,
financial services, and housing
tax credit disputes, advising developers
and nonprofit partners.
Stephen Davis
Senior Legal Fellow, Pacific Legal Foundation.
Specializes in property-rights and constitutional law, has served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney.
William Maurer
Managing Attorney, Institute for Justice
WA.
William is a nationally recognized
advocate for property rights, free
speech, and reforming fines and fees.
Andrea Smiley
Legislative Director, Building Industry
Association of WA
Extensive experience in construction policy, communication,
government affairs, and leads legislative advocacy at BIAW.
Charlie Bauman
Development Director and Affiliated Principal, GT Capital.In charge of future development entities
and is responsible for
directing acquisition,
development, and repositioning of
assets.
Christina Mays
Principal, Detente Management.Christina is an award-winning property
management leader and active industry volunteer with over 20 years
of experience
Cory Brewer
VP of Residential Operations,Windermere Property Management
/ Lori Gill & Associates.
Oversees brokerage operations, legal
compliance & recruiting, client relations.
Danielle Duvall
Executive Director, National Association
of Industrial and Office Properties.
Danielle has driven record membership
engagement while advancing advocacy for Washington's commercial
real estate sector.
Denise Myers
Program Director, Rental HousingAssociation of Washington.
Leads education and membership
services, ensuring members have access to timely training, tools, and resources to stay
compliant and informed.
Emily Thompson
Partner, GMD Development.Emily has led creative, community-
focused affordable housing projects
through both non-profit and market-rate partnerships.
Greg Lane
Executive Vice President, BuildingIndustry Association of Washington.
Greg leads the largest trade association
in Washington's homebuilding
industry and has extensive public affairs
and media experience.
Jake Bond
Principal, GSC Investments.
Focusing on developing and preserving
manufactured housing communities
and guiding affiliated property
management and home sales operations.
Jan Wanot
Real Estate Professional, WashingtonReal Estate Investing.
Jan is a seasoned investor and educator
with WAREI, supporting independent
housing providers with
insight on property acquisition and
portfolio strategy.
James Bach
Senior Vice President, CBRE.James has led over $9 billion in multifamily
and commercial financing
deals across the Pacific Northwest.
Kevin Wallace
President, Wallace Properties.Kevin leads Wallace Properties’ real
estate development and legal strategy
and is known for championing
sustainable, transit-oriented projects
in the Puget Sound region.
Melissa Canfield
Deputy Director, Rental Housing Association
of Washington.
Melissa leads strategic operations
and member services at RHAWA, advancing its impact through technology
and advocacy.
Michael Montero
Home Design Specialist, CollectivePark Homes.
Co-leads one of Washington’s largest
manufactured home dealers with
operations in Colorado and Idaho.
Nick Marin
Executive Director, Washington MultifamilyHousing Association.
Nick brings extensive nonprofit
leadership and has grown WMFHA
into a nationally recognized affiliate
of the NAA.
Alex Hays
Political Consultant.
Alex is a strategist for moderate Republican candidates and expert
in coalition-building and electoral strategy.
Andrea Suarez
Founder, We Heart Seattle.Andrea leads a civic cleanup and outreach initiative that has removed nearly 2 million pounds of trash and
placed individuals into treatment and housing.
Ben Anderstone
Political Consultant, ProgressiveStrategies NW.
Ben is a Tacoma-based analyst and media commentator focused on campaign strategy and electoral trends.
Brandi Kruse
Journalist & Host, unDivided Podcast.Brandi is an Emmy-winning journalist
and political commentator challenging narratives and driving common-
sense conversations.
Janelle Guthrie
VP, Communications, Building Industry
Association of WA.
Janelle is a national award-winning public affairs professional with a deep background in state policy and crisis communications.
Joe Fain
President & CEO, Bellevue Chamber.Joe is a former state senator and negotiator
of key legislation, now leading Bellevue’s business advocacy
efforts.
Jonathan Choe
Senior Fellow, Discovery Institute.Jonathan investigates homelessness and urban policy, known for on-theground coverage that has shaped local
responses.
Kaitlin Vintertun
Executive Director, League of OurOwn WA.
Kaitlin trains women who value limited
government and free markets to step into public leadership.
Laudan Espinoza
Principal Consultant, Cascade Public
Relations.
Laudan advises public sector organizations
on policy messaging,
engagement, and communications
strategy.
Mark Harmsworth
Director, Small Business Center, Washington Policy Center.Mark is a former legislator and small
business advocate focused on economic
policy, regulatory reform, and supporting entrepreneurs across
Washington State.
Sam Jefferies
Issues & Crisis Communications,Starbucks.
Sam manages global brand reputation
and advises on high-stakes communications,
political messaging,
and public relations.
Sandeep Kaushik
Partner, Sound View Strategies.Sandeep is a leading civic strategist
advising on ballot measures, media
campaigns, and complex policy
challenges.
Build smarter. Grow stronger. This track focuses on long-term success through portfolio growth, risk management, succession planning, and smart investing. This track includes three breakout sessions.
From lease compliance and tenant screening to rent increases and turnover, this track is your guide to adapting your operations to comply with new state and local laws. This track includes three breakout sessions and a learning lab.
Get ready for an electrifying ride with Krist Novoselic—Nirvana’s legendary bassist—blending raw punk energy with sharp political insight! From the rebellious streets of 90s Seattle to the heart of electoral reform, Krist shares his bold ideas on democracy, bipartisan teamwork, and shaping the future. Don’t miss this unconventional, fun-filled conversation where music, politics, and punk rock collide—perfect for anyone ready to challenge the status quo and spark change!
CANDIDATE FORUMS: ENGAGE & ELECT
ENGAGE25 hosts two impactful general sessions featuring both local and state candidates who are actively shaping housing policy in Washington. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with key figures such as Amy Walen, Chad Magendanz, Kevin Schilling, and Michelle Caldier, as well as local leaders including Jared Nieuwenhuis, John Hines, Jonathan Bingle, and Sara Nelson. These candidate forums offer a rare chance to hear firsthand how these policymakers plan to address critical housing issues and to participate in meaningful conversations that will influence the direction of housing policy across the state.
RHA PAC HAPPY HOUR & Public Officials Mix & Mingle
Join government officials, civic leaders, and other distinguished guests for an engaging and informal reception designed to foster connections among public officials, industry leaders, and attendees. This unstructured event provides a unique opportunity for meaningful conversations and networking, allowing you to build relationships and exchange ideas with key figures in the community. As you mingle, indulge in a variety of delicious hors d'oeuvres and refreshing drinks, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for collaboration and partnership. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this dynamic gathering where connections are made and ideas flourish.
ATTENDEE EXPERIENCE
Registration includes full access to all general sessions, breakout discussions, and hands-on learning labs across both days of the event. You'll be well-fueled with complimentary breakfast, lunch*, snacks, and beverages provided throughout the day. The conference also features exclusive opportunities to engage directly with public officials during networking receptions, including the RHA PAC Happy Hour and the Public Officials Meet & Mingle.
*Provided to all attendees on day two.
LOCATION
ENGAGE25 will be held at the Meydenbauer Center in downtown Bellevue—an accessible, modern venue for a professional two-day conference. Sessions span the first and fourth floors, with a spacious exhibitor hall, lounges, and complimentary garage parking. Nearby hotels, including the InterContinental, Marriott, Westin, and Hilton, offer upscale accommodations. With Bellevue’s restaurants and cafés within walking distance, you’ll enjoy easy access to dining and networking before and after each day’s programming.
Help Us Spread the Word
Do you collaborate with contractors, attorneys, lenders, insurance professionals, or others who support the rental housing industry? Invite them to be part of ENGAGE25. Whether they’re plumbers, general contractors, tech providers, or legal experts, this event offers a prime opportunity to connect with housing providers, promote their services, and stay ahead of industry developments. Encourage your partners to attend, exhibit, or sponsor—because when more voices come to the table, the entire industry moves forward together.
Let’s Shape the Future of Housing Together – Register Now
Join housing leaders, legal experts, developers, and advocates at ENGAGE25. It’s time to protect our industry, promote equitable solutions, and push for smarter housing policy in Washington State. Be part of the movement that shapes Washington’s rental housing future. Register Now at engagewa.com
For exhibitor and sponsorship inquiries, reach out to Luke Brown at lbrown@RHAwa.org.