FirstService Residential, North America’s leading community management company, announced that Terrance Smith, CMCA, AMS, LSM, PCAM, executive director of the Desert Ridge Community Association, received the City of Phoenix Excellence in Connectivity and Communication Award.
As executive director, Smith leads communication and engagement efforts for Desert Ridge, one of Arizona's largest and most complex master-planned communities. The master-planned community encompasses over 6,400 homes across 5,700 acres and includes residential neighborhoods, shopping, parks, entertainment destinations and a diverse network of community stakeholders.
The award recognizes Smith’s leadership in keeping residents, businesses and community partners connected through effective communication and collaboration. His efforts include organizing community meetings, maintaining an active social media presence and overseeing the quarterly Lifestyles magazine, which provides residents with community news, resources and opportunities to get involved.
Smith was nominated by Phoenix District 2 Councilman Jim Waring in recognition of his efforts. The nomination highlighted Smith’s consistent approach to communication and his ability to bring residents, businesses and community partners together around shared priorities. The City of Phoenix selected Smith for the honor and presented the award during the 2026 Neighborhood Synergy Conference on Sept. 12.
“Keeping a community connected is always a team effort,” Smith said. “I'm fortunate to work alongside engaged residents, supportive board members, local businesses and community partners who care deeply about Desert Ridge. I'm honored by this recognition and grateful to Councilman Waring for the nomination and for his continued support of our community.”
Hosted by the City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department, the annual Neighborhood Synergy Conference brings neighborhood advocates and leaders together for education, collaboration and recognition. According to the city, the conference is designed to help participants expand their networks, access community resources and work together on challenges facing Phoenix neighborhoods.
“At FirstService Residential, we believe strong communities are built through strong relationships, and Terrance brings that philosophy to life every day,” said Shane Gillaspie, president of FirstService Residential Arizona. “His ability to connect residents, businesses, board members and community partners has helped strengthen Desert Ridge in meaningful ways. We are proud to see his dedication, leadership and commitment to the community recognized by the City of Phoenix.”
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington, members of the Phoenix City Council and Phoenix Police Chief Matt Giordano were present during the award ceremony.
About FirstService Residential
FirstService Residential is simplifying property management. Its hospitality-minded teams serve residential communities across the United States and Canada. The organization partners with boards, owners, and developers to enhance the value of every property and the life of every resident.
Leveraging unique expertise and scale, FirstService serves its clients with proven solutions and a service-first philosophy. Residents can count on 24/7 customer care and tailored lifestyle programming, amenity activation, and technology for their community’s specific needs. Market-leading programs with FirstService Financial, FirstService Energy, and special districts teams deliver additional levels of support.
Boards and developers select FirstService Residential to realize their vision and drive positive change for residents in the communities in their trusted care.
FirstService Residential is a subsidiary of FirstService Corporation (NASDAQ and TSX:FSV), a North American leader in providing essential property services to a wide range of residential and commercial clients.