William Wollinger, president and COO of WinnResidential, has been awarded this year’s 2009 Industry Excellence Award by the Rental Housing Association (RHA).

Wollinger has been in the property management business for more than 35 years, and joined WinnCompanies in 1979 as general manager. Since that time he has presided over the expansion of the company to its current size of 310 locations, providing more than 75,000 homes to a diverse population throughout the country.

"It is a true honor to receive this award," Wollinger said. "I have had the opportunity to do work that I love, and to contribute to an incredible industry while continuing to work with some of the most amazing and talented people."

Wollinger, a UMassAmherst graduate, also served as an officer in the U.S. Army, with an extended tour of duty in Vietnam. As a medical evacuation pilot he flew more than 2,000 combat missions.

"Bill makes our company proud each and every day, and we are excited to see him receive this well deserved industry recognition," said Winn Cos. Managing Principle Gilbert Winn. "He joined our company 30 years ago when we owned just five properties, and has help guide our expansion to become one of the largest and most recognized management companies in the country."

The award is presented each year to an individual within the rental housing industry who exemplifies excellence in rental housing through community and civic involvement and professionalism in all aspects of multi-family development, ownership and management.

The RHA also recognized Congressman Richard E. Neal with the Public Service Award for his public service benefiting the rental housing community.