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Tailwind Group Announces Three Internal Promotions to Vice President Roles

Tailwind Group is pleased to announce the promotion of three leaders to Vice President roles, further strengthening the company’s leadership team and reinforcing its commitment to developing talent from within. These promotions reflect Tailwind Group’s continued investment in leadership as the organization expands its portfolio, scales operations, and executes its long-term strategic vision.

Colleen Lewter, David Hughes, and Kate Walters have consistently demonstrated the ability to build and lead high-performing teams, drive results, and positively influence the broader organization. In their new roles as Vice Presidents, they will assume expanded responsibilities in organizational leadership, strategic planning, talent development, and shaping the future direction of Tailwind Group.

Colleen Lewter Promoted to Vice President of Operations Support

Colleen Lewter has served as Director of Operations Support for the past four years and has been promoted to Vice President of Operations Support. Since joining Tailwind Group as a Property Manager, Colleen has advanced through the organization, first becoming a Regional Property Manager and then leading the Operations Support team.

Throughout her career, Colleen has focused on establishing operational consistency, supporting onsite teams, and developing processes that help communities succeed. As Vice President of Operations Support, she will continue to provide strategic leadership for the department and drive operational excellence across Tailwind Group’s growing portfolio.

David Hughes Promoted to Vice President of Innovation and Technology

David Hughes has been promoted to Vice President of Innovation and Technology after serving as Director of Information Technology. His Tailwind Group career began more than 14 years ago as a Property Manager, progressing through roles including Administrator Manager and Director of Information Technology.

David has led numerous technology initiatives that have improved operational efficiency and enhanced the employee experience throughout the organization. In his new role, he will continue to lead Tailwind Group’s technology strategy and drive innovation to support the company’s future growth.

Kate Walters Promoted to Vice President of Real Estate Accounting

Kate Walters has been promoted to Vice President of Real Estate Accounting, having served as Director of Real Estate Accounting since January 2023. Since joining Tailwind Group as an Accounting Manager, Kate has played an instrumental role in expanding the company’s real estate accounting function.

As Vice President, Kate will continue to lead the Real Estate Accounting team, providing financial leadership that supports Tailwind Group’s expanding portfolio and developing systems, processes, and team members to position the organization for sustained success.

“One of Tailwind Group’s greatest strengths is the talent within our organization,” said Brandon Smith, President and CEO of Tailwind Group. “Colleen, David, and Kate have each built exceptional teams and demonstrated the leadership, vision, and commitment that define our culture. These promotions reflect not only their accomplishments but also our confidence in their ability to lead Tailwind into its next chapter of growth. Their career paths are a testament to our belief that investing in our people develops stronger leaders, stronger teams, and ultimately a stronger company.”

2026-08-11T16:49:57-05:00August 11th, 2026|

Tailwind Group and Baker Tilly Expand Strategic Partnership Through The Overlook Joint Venture

Tailwind Group, a leading owner and operator of student housing communities nationwide, and Baker Tilly, a leading advisory, tax, and assurance firm, announced the expansion of their strategic relationship through a joint-venture acquisition of The Overlook, a 796-bed student housing community serving students at the University of Oklahoma.

Tailwind Group and Baker Tilly have collaborated since 2022 on a series of student housing investments structured as Delaware Statutory Trusts (“DSTs”), with properties in Bloomington, Indiana; Ames, Iowa; Mankato, Minnesota; Columbia, Missouri; and Lawrence, Kansas. Throughout the partnership, Tailwind Group has provided property management and operational oversight, leveraging its vertically integrated platform to drive performance and enhance the resident experience.

The Overlook acquisition further expands that relationship and reinforces both organizations’ commitment to investing in high-quality student housing communities in strong university markets.

As part of the acquisition, The Overlook will undergo a comprehensive renovation to enhance the student living experience. Planned improvements include upgraded apartment interiors, expanded community amenities, enhanced technology, and revitalized shared spaces. Renovations are expected to begin in fall 2026 and be completed in 2027.

“Our relationship with Tailwind has been built on trust, consistent execution, and a shared long-term view of the student housing sector," said Nick Rhode, Vice President of Acquisitions at Baker Tilly. “This joint venture marks the next chapter in that collaboration, and we are excited to continue identifying opportunities where our organizations can create value together.”

“Over the past several years, Baker Tilly has proven to be an exceptional partner," said Brandon Smith, President and CEO of Tailwind Group. "The success of our relationship is rooted in a shared vision and mutual trust. The Overlook represents an exciting opportunity to build on that foundation and deliver an enhanced living experience for students in this market.”

Tailwind Group continues to prioritize strategic partnerships that support its mission to create exceptional living experiences and deliver long-term value for investors, residents, and university communities.


About Tailwind Group
Tailwind Group is a vertically integrated real estate investment and management firm focused on value-add student housing and commercial real estate across the United States. Headquartered in Mankato, Minnesota, Tailwind’s platform spans acquisitions, development, construction management, property management, and asset management, and its portfolio comprises more than 20,000 beds across university markets nationwide.

About Baker Tilly
Baker Tilly is a leading advisory, tax, and assurance firm serving middle-market leaders across a broad range of industries. Through its real estate platform, Baker Tilly partners with experienced operators to source and structure institutional-quality real estate investment opportunities, including Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) offerings.

2026-08-04T10:53:18-05:00August 4th, 2026|
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