SMPS Austin is excited to host a deep-dive discussion focusing on Austin Independent School District record $2.4 Billion bond package plus upcoming plans for repurposing District real estate holdings. We will hear more about the motivation for these projects, project delivery and procurement, plus potential timelines. This lively discussion features Michael Mann, Executive Director of Construction Management, LaVonia Horne-Williams, Construction Procurement Manager, and Jeremy Striffler, Director of Real Estate.

Speakers:

Michael Mann

Executive Director of Construction Management - AISD

Born and raised just outside of San Antonio, Michael comes from a family of educators but chose a slightly different path in life.  After high school, Michael attended the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture, graduating in 2001.  After graduation, he moved to San Antonio, working as an Architect on a wide range of projects.  In 2010, Michael returned to Austin to take a job as a Project Manager, working on various project types, including K-12 schools.  While his career has centered around Architecture and construction, he did end up following in his family's footsteps in a roundabout way, working as a Project Manager for Austin ISD for the last 7+ years.  Michael is currently the Executive Director of Construction Management with the AISD Construction Management Department.  He is a board member of the Association for Learning Environments: Central Texas Chapter, and is proud to be part of a great community of professionals, advancing and improving learning environments for the students and the communities of AISD.

LaVonia Horne-Williams

AISD Construction Procurement Manager

An effective, well-versed leader in the field of procurement, LaVonia Horne-Williams has more than 20 years of experience in managing teams, operations, and personnel at the local, state government and non-profit and school district levels. An expert at deciphering and sustaining value through competitive sourcing and change management, LaVonia is committed to the development of lean, strategic processes to help facilitate professional procurement. Her leadership strategy is to plan for change, drive performance, and cultivate a people-first culture of engagement and accountability.

Joining Austin ISD a year ago as the Construction Procurement Manager, she leads a team of professionals. LaVonia has worked to implement procurement best practices and processes to bring structure, compliance and agility to procurement at Austin ISD.  She received a B.A. from California State University East Bay, an M.A. from Texas State University, and is a Certified Texas Contract Manager. At the event, LaVonia will deliver a discussion on procurement challenges, solutions, and strategies.

Jeremy Striffler

AISD Director of Real Estate

Jeremy Striffler joined the Austin Independent School District in September 2021 as their Director of Real Estate. The Austin ISD portfolio consists of over 13 million square feet situated on 2,200 acres of land all located within the City of Austin. Jeremy is responsible for the professional direction and strategic leadership of the District’s real estate portfolio as it aligns with the Long-Range Facilities Plan. Prior to joining AISD, he worked for Cushman & Wakefield where he provided lease, buy, and sell services for corporations, nonprofits, and education organizations, supporting site selection, client relations, and project management. Some notable past clients include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Fairview Health Services, Land O’Lakes, U.S. Bank, Volunteers of America, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. 

Thank you to our sponsors!

Diamond Sponsors

Sapphire Sponsors

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

• SAPPHIRE PROGRAM SPONSOR ($300 member/$450 non-member) - Sapphire Program Sponsor level includes firm logo on all printed, web, and social media program materials, verbal recognition at luncheon, able to provide marketing collateral at each attendee seat, and 1 lunch guest registration. 
• DIAMOND PROGRAM SPONSOR ($600 member/ $900 non-member) - Diamond Program Sponsor **SOLD OUT**
  

For sponsorship questions contact Director of Sponsorship, Rachel Gray at [email protected]