Laura Khouri Won Business Journal Women in Business Award
The Western National Property Management executive was honored for leadership and community service in Irvine.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Laura Khouri, president and COO of Western National Property Management, received a Business Journal Women in Business Award. The ceremony was held at the Irvine Marriott in front of more than 700 guests.
Why it matters
The award recognizes Khouri for integrating philanthropy into the core of her business operations. She maintains that successful corporate leadership requires consistent community investment.
Western National Property Management holds an $8.8 billion portfolio across 23,000 apartment units, marking a 16% growth over a 13-month period. The company has donated $300,000 to charity since 2023 and provided $7 million in pandemic rent relief.
The players
Laura Khouri
She serves as the president and chief operating officer of Western National Property Management.
Western National Property Management
This real estate firm manages a multi-billion dollar portfolio of apartment units across Southern California and Nevada.
Anaheim Ducks
This professional ice hockey team partners with local businesses to facilitate community outreach and charity donations.
The details
Khouri has provided strategic oversight for the firm's multifamily portfolio since joining in 1985. Her community efforts include a partnership with the Anaheim Ducks that has distributed over 24,000 free game tickets to local families.
Timeline
Khouri joined Western National Property Management in 1985.
The charitable partnership with the Anaheim Ducks began in 2023.
Khouri was honored with Women of Influence and Best Boss awards in 2024.
The Women in Business Award ceremony took place on September 17, 2026.
Market Landscape
Khouri's recognition reflects an industry shift where major property management firms increasingly leverage philanthropic partnerships to strengthen regional brand loyalty. This move highlights how top-tier operators differentiate themselves in a competitive housing market through community-focused branding.
The firm's ongoing community partnerships mean that local families continue to gain access to subsidized sports and entertainment opportunities. Residents and community groups in Southern California may benefit from continued philanthropic engagement as the company grows its $8.8 billion portfolio.
The takeaway
Successful corporate leaders often find that aligning business growth with measurable community support fosters stronger local relationships. Implementing a model of consistent philanthropy can provide a long-term competitive advantage for large-scale property management firms.
Further reading
For more information on regional charitable initiatives, visit our Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Orange County Business Journal.
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Should local businesses prioritize community philanthropy as part of their standard business model?
