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ABOUT US

WEARESOCIETY. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the affordable housing problem in Oklahoma and beyond. Our mission is to build community momentum though housing, for the underserve.

Board of Directors

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Bob Sullivan

Vice Chairman

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Cathy O'Connor

Chairwoman

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Jerry Roca

Executive Director

Mr. Bob Sullivan, CCIM, principal owner of NAI Sullivan Group has more than 31 years of commercial real estate experience. Bob is a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse background in operating successful business ventures over the past 40 years. In 1991 after many successful years in the restaurant business, Bob began his career in commercial real estate. Bob earned the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation in 1995 which is the highest professional certification in commercial real estate. Bob’s company was invited to join the NAI Global network in 2004. Bob has formed leadership skills of organization, creative problem solving and the sharing of successful formulas and practical experience that has allowed growth and led to the successful accomplishments of the Brokers within the NAI Sullivan Group. There are currently 18 licensed real estate professionals each with their own industry specialization, four support staff and three property management staff. Bob has served in many leadership roles within the industry and NAI Sullivan Group continues to be at the forefront of the most recognized commercial real estate companies in Oklahoma.

Cathy O’Connor was founder and served as president of the Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City for 10 years. She helped design this non-profit corporation to coordinate public participation in economic development projects. In that role, O’Connor was instrumental in furthering development throughout Oklahoma City and promoting job creation. She was the point person on the team that worked to locate both the GE Global Energy Research Facility, and the Boeing Aircraft Modernization and Sustainment division in Oklahoma City. She also led the efforts to create the NE Renaissance Urban Renewal Area and Tax Increment Finance district, the Core to Shore Tax Increment Finance District and to develop the Omni Convention Center Hotel to complement the new MAPS 3 Convention Center and Scissortail Park.

A visionary, adventurer, and leader with a diverse background that uniquely positions him to make a significant impact in the world of Affordable Housing. In 2020, Jerry founded WEARESOCIETY, with a commitment to promoting culture and community. This organization reflects his unwavering dedication to creating positive change and uplifting those in need. Born in Mexico City, Jerry embarked on a journey to the United States in his early 20s, driven by his aspiration to build a prosperous life for his family. His path to success was marked by hard work and resilience, he honed his skills across various industries, gaining invaluable insights into self-reliance and entrepreneurship. Jerry's journey led him to become a thriving Business Owner, Investor, and Real Estate Developer. Throughout his career, he has held pivotal roles in Strategic Planning, Property Research, Project Management, and Acquisition Strategy, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of real estate and community development. Jerry's transformational journey, from a young immigrant with a dream to a successful real estate developer and philanthropist, underscores his belief in the power of perseverance, innovation, and community building. With a generous spirit and a profound passion for uplifting those in need, Jerry Roca epitomizes the values and mission of WEARESOCIETY.

Board Members

Kirsten Strickler

Treasurer

Kirsten Strickler is a Senior Credit Analyst and Portfolio Manager at Citizens Bank of Edmond, located at 1 E 1st St, Edmond, OK 73034. She has been in this position since September 2019. Kirsten's responsibilities include preparing credit memos for loan approvals and conducting loan reviews for the existing portfolio. These credit memos and reviews are then presented to the Internal Loan Committee (ILC) on a weekly basis. Additionally, Kirsten serves as the secretary to the board for both the Internal Loan Committee and the Special Assets Committee. As part of her role, she prepares meeting minutes and agenda for these committees on a weekly basis. Kirsten is a professional who specializes in providing collateral analysis, financial analysis, and cash flow statements. She is also responsible for completing charge-off and liquidation status for the loan portfolio. Additionally, Kirsten prepares various loan reports such as past dues, upcoming maturing loans, and loan renewals. She also compiles relevant industry reports for ILC. Kirsten is proficient in completing internal evaluations for collateral valuations and has expertise in small business loans, specifically 7(a) loans and Payroll Protection.

Gerry Fritts

Board Member

Affordable Housing Strategist / Gerry Fritts is a seasoned expert in affordable housing development strategy. With a career spanning decades, he has made significant contributions to the field. Executive Director, ACSHF: Gerry's visionary leadership has led to the successful development of various affordable housing projects, including pioneering the use of Low Income Housing Tax Credits with Native American Reservations. President, Evergreen International, Inc.: Gerry owns, operates, and develops low to moderate-income housing projects across North America. Executive Vice President: Gerry managed large teams and played a pivotal role in the sale of Puget Sound National Mortgage. He initiated Native American Trust Loans origination. Asset Management, IBM: Gerry began his career in asset management at IBM, where he honed his financial expertise. Gerry's dedication to creating affordable housing solutions in underserved communities serves as an inspiration to unite and build a better, more inclusive world.

Eddie Shane Walker

Board Member

Eddie Shane Walker has been a federal employee since March 2002. Throughout his federal career, the focus has been on building people, processes, and technology through leadership, project management, and process improvement. He has also held several part-time consulting roles, supporting process improvement, business operations, strategic planning, change management, and company branding. Eddie’s current role with Stow's Office Furniture involves ensuring that the organization possesses the necessary talent and processes to effectively cater to its customer base. Additionally, he owns and manages Green Spot Consulting LLC, which offers organizations a fresh perspective and opportunities through a streamlined strategic planning process. Eddie's experience in leading through recessions and pandemics has allowed him to grow both personally and professionally. He is excited to play an active role in the future of the local community in Oklahoma City. He obtained a Bachelor's degree in Information and Operations Management from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2003 and a Master's degree in Business Administration from Oklahoma City University in 2005. In 2010, he achieved his Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Eddie Shane Walker holds a Masters Certificate in Project Management and another in Business Analysis, both obtained from George Washington University. In 2014, he successfully completed training in Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and Black Belt. Additionally, Eddie has received training in Human Centered Design (HCD) and actively applies formal change management techniques, recognizing that change is a gradual process that starts with individuals.

Dr. Lorents DDS

Board Member

Dr. Lorents obtained his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Oklahoma in 2012. He served as a part-time faculty member at OU College of Dentistry for three years, teaching in the removable and fixed prosthodontic clinics. Following his graduation, Dr. Lorents has been dedicated to expanding his dental proficiency and understanding through various post-doctorate courses. These courses encompass a range of subjects, such as Implantology, Implant Prosthodontics, Advanced Bone Grafting, and Full Mouth Rehabilitation. With his advanced knowledge and skills has placed and restored over 2500 implants and teaches basic and advanced implant surgery to other dentists. His state-of-the-art private practice offers comprehensive digital dentistry, cone beam CT (CBCT) evaluation, and advanced CAD/CAM technology. Moreover, he provides his patients with advanced diagnostic and surgical skills. Dr. Lorents, a firm believer in delivering exceptional restorative dentistry, is renowned for his proficiency in full mouth crowns and implant restoration design. To ensure comprehensive patient care, he established an in-house 3Shape dental laboratory, guaranteeing top-notch treatment quality. Furthermore, Dr. Lorents and his wife are proud owners of Sculpted Medical Spa, a reputable establishment offering a range of aesthetic treatments including Botox, Fillers, PRP, and laser skin treatments. He resides in Oklahoma City, OK with his wife and two children. When he is not growing his practice, he indulges in playing hockey, golf, and tennis. He has held the position of official Barons AHL Hockey dentist, where he provided dental care for the NHL Oilers team and staff. Presently, he dedicates his expertise to assisting local professional hockey leagues and beer leagues in safeguarding and restoring their smiles. Dr. Lorents is involved with various courses, including being a continuing education provider and a live surgical training instructor at WIIC Werhle Implant Immersion Course. Additionally, he serves as a lecturer in Implantology, Digital CAD/CAM, and CBCT dentistry. Dr. Lorents is also a member of esteemed organizations such as AAID, Dental XP, ADA, ODA, and AGD

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