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SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | APRIL 2026 13 BILLIARDS By Annette Hillis, Resident Eva Mason, Solera Diamond Valley's new General Manager, comes from good stock. Pondering her upbringing, she credits her hardworking father for instilling a strong moral compass. In tough decision-making situations, he taught her to breathe, prioritize, and then get it done, with actions based on ethics. She thinks of her nana when considering the treatment of others. Picturing her petite, four-foot-eleven-inch-tall grandma at our front desk inspires her to treat others with benevolence and compassion. In fact, she believes kindness should transcend personal struggles. "I don't care if I am having the worst day. We all have a personal life – right? I try my best to leave it at the door when I come here. Maybe you are also having a bad day. A little kindness goes a long way. My favorite saying is 'If you see somebody without a smile, give them yours.'" Her entry into the world of 55+ communities occurred a little by happenstance. It began on a whim years ago when she considered applying to become a portfolio manager for several communities, including retirement neighborhoods. Since getting that job, she has continued working in the HOA industry for 29 years, most recently managing multiple properties simultaneously. But Mason longed for a more focused position, one of a general manager role where she could give her undivided attention to a single property and enjoy a close collaboration with the staff and board. Mason supports an open-door policy and advocates using email as the quickest way to communicate with her. e front desk monitor will email residents confirming receipt of the message, ensuring that they feel heard even before a resolution is available. Recognizing that some residents do not use email, she commits to phone calls or in-person conversations to guarantee accessibility. She prioritizes putting herself in the shoes of others and hearing people out when they voice a concern. Mason also believes a general manager should act preemptively and plan for the future. "I try to be more proactive than reactive. at's really big for me because in this industry there are usually a lot of fires to put out. I'd rather plan ahead, if possible. I am a planner by nature. For example, I support the board's approval of a major maintenance matrix that emphasizes reviewing reserve studies and major components. I am a proponent for developing a 10 – 20-year plan for this community." Mason's favorite book is Tuesdays with Morrie about a former student who reconnects with his dying professor, and as a result, learns some major life lessons. e book taught her to be present, aware, and emotionally engaged. She draws leadership lessons around values emphasized in the book: empathy, attention, and embracing the moment. is informs her day-to-day interactions with staff and residents. She loves SDV and really admires the active lifestyle and sense of community we have here. She even expressed a desire to move in upon her own retirement. According to Mason, "You are all living your best life." Serving with Heart, Integrity, and Vision

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