Erica LaCentra, Director of Marketing for RCN Capital joined RCN in 2013. Her efforts have rapidly expanded RCN’s customer base while rapidly elevating the company to a national brand. She handles the creation of all things RCN, speaks on marketing topics at industry events and serves on AAPL’s inaugural Education Advisory Committee. When she’s not [...]
CIVIC enhances multifamily lending platform with speed, efficiency and transparency Non-bank direct lender Civic Financial Services announced that it has furthered its commitment to the multifamily space with the launch of CIVIC Multifamily. The vertically-integrated multifamily lending platform is quickly gaining traction in the non-bank small balance bridge space with its unique positioning and strategic [...]
From Mathematics to Big Numbers Merve Tabakcioglu takes on Digital Marketing Universal Commercial Capital, a California hard money lender, promoted Merve Tabakcioglu to Social Media Manager. Tabakciouglu has been charged with leading all online marketing strategy and implementation. Tabakciuoglu has been with Universal Commercial Capital as the marketing coordinator for the last year. Before joining [...]
Rocky Butani, CEO of PrivateLenderLink.com, has been an AAPL member for five years. You may have noticed him around industry events with a camera in his hand in recent years. He has taken a photography hobby to another level with formal training and has been shooting amazing professional photos and videos. You’ll find the videos posted [...]
Originating loans from a self-directed retirement plan can earn tax-advantaged income for your golden years. Incorporating familiar private lending practices into an individual retirement account (IRA), 401(k) or other tax-advantaged savings vehicles can give you true control over your retirement, while limiting your exposure to undue dangers. The same origination practices you use for your [...]
Michael Tedesco, CEO of Appraisal Nation, has been an AAPL member for seven years. If you’re looking to start a conversation with Michael, ask him how the Steelers are doing. He's an avid fan of football and baseball – especially his beloved Pittsburgh teams – and still has thousands of his childhood baseball cards. Learn more [...]
Chris Ragland, COO of Noble Capital, has been an AAPL member for three years. His wanderlust is fueled by new cultures and languages that help build personal growth opportunities. If he can hike a mountain along the way, even better. Chris is a member of AAPL’s Education Advisory Committee, panelist, instructor and is about to [...]
Brett Crosby and John Beacham tie Member of the Year The American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL), the only national organization dedicated to excellence in private real estate lending, announced the winners of the 2018 AAPL Excellence Awards. The awards were announced at AAPL’s 2018 Annual Conference Excellence Award Ceremony, which took place at Caesars [...]
Partnering with VCheck Global emphasizes credibility of members The American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL), the only national organization dedicated to excellence in private real estate lending, announced a new partnership with VCheck Global at AAPL’s 2018 Annual Conference State of the Association, which took place at Caesars Palace, Nov. 4. “VCheck Global offers a [...]
American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL) announced its launch of The Influencers as the first national private lender mastermind as a new category of AAPL membership. In a twist from traditional masterminds that focus primarily on internal business issues, members of the Influencers will meet with policymakers to tackle broader regulatory change, create strategies to [...]
Membership Questions?
Call 913-888-1250
Nominations are open until August 30, 2026, with voting from September 7-30, 2026. We’ll announce recipients at our Annual Conference.
Member of the Year (MOTY): This award goes to a member based on their deep expertise, unique value, and strong commitment to clients and the industry.
Rising Star: Rising Stars are members who have accomplished outstanding growth in their company or industry sector over the past year.
Community Impact: Recipients improve their local communities or our industry through volunteering, development programs, or civic efforts.
See past award winners, award rules, and participate in the 2026 nomination and voting process here.
VIP RECEPTION // Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while catching up with VIPs from across the country, all overlooking the gorgeous Las Vegas Strip. AAPL Members may RSVP during conference registration at no additional cost; for non-members it is $199/ticket.
NETWORKING BREAKFASTS & SESSION BREAKS // Early-risers will appreciate plentiful coffee and a selection of pastries, protein, and more – along with the opportunity to talk shop in a quieter atmosphere. Session breaks feature an energetic environment with a variety of snacking options.
AFTER-HOURS RECEPTION // Continue conversations with fellow attendees, sponsors, and speakers in the Exhibit Hall while enjoying complimentary hors d’oeuvres and two drink tokens.
OFFICIAL AFTER-PARTY // For those who hate to say goodnight, each year a few sponsors plan a little something extra to wrap up your day … or help segue from all-business to all-fun. We’ll mark the party as official and provide information about how to attend.
AAPL APP // The app is your insiders’ guide to getting the most out of #AAPLANNUAL and includes your personalized schedule, conference navigation system, and more! Download now!
Grand Prize – Custom Championship Belt & VIP Admission to Power Room event in St. Augustine, FL (February 27th – March 1st, 2023)
2nd Place – 2023 AAPL Annual Conference Bundle to include Individual Membership, 1 Conference Ticket and 1 VIP Reception pass.
3rd Place – 1 year AAPL Individual Membership