The Clarence Mendel True Blue Award celebrates an exceptional individual who has consistently exhibited dedication, exemplary performance, and commitment to their role and MetroNational’s success. This award recognizes a Team Member who goes above and beyond in every aspect of their work and demonstrates our values in everything they do. The recipient serves others, builds trust, makes an impact, and has created a legacy of their own within the MetroNational story.
Clarence Mendel was the epitome of true blue. He was a humble and successful person; he would call it fortunate. He was successful because of the way he looked at life. There were no wins or losses, only events to learn from. You win, you lose, you learn, and move on. He taught kids on his baseball teams – “You are not a winner, or a loser based on the score of the game, but on how you played the game. Give it your best and you’re a winner every time.” He led his life this way and never gave up until the job was done.
As a MetroNational team member for more than 35 years, Clarence demonstrated our values and put the needs of the company and community first. He always did things right and would not put his name on anything he was not proud of. In order to honor his name and the impact he had on MetroNational and the community, we have put his name on our True Blue award.
These are the behaviors that are in alignment with our values and distinguish top-performers at MetroNational
Demonstrates integrity, trust, impact and legacy in everything done in support of MetroNational and your family.
Consistently exceeds performance expectations, showcases outstanding job knowledge, and delivers remarkable results.
Interactions with team members, clients, and the community have a positive and substantial impact, fosters strong relationships and contributes to overall success.
Behavior, attitude, and actions contribute to cultivating a positive and inclusive work culture that promotes accountability, customer focus, and a supportive atmosphere.
The Clarence Mendel True Blue Award is based on the following criteria designed to recognize and honor exceptional contributions and commitment to the organization:
Company-wide communication with an overview of the award, criteria and process to nominate
Team Members utilize a nomination form to recommend fellow Team Members for the award
The 7-person Culture Committee reviews all nominations and submits a recommendation to the Steering Committee for final approval.
The winner is announced at the annual Direction meeting.
Tuong Ngo exemplifies “silent excellence”—a steady, high-performing presence whose consistency, humility, and reliability have made a lasting impact across MetroNational. As a graphic designer supporting multiple business units, Tuong brings purposeful creativity and precision to everything from leasing materials and photography to internal communications and marketing collateral. His phrase “solid as oak” reflects the deep integrity that inspires trust and respect across the organization. Always punctual and always thoughtful, Tuong works diligently behind the scenes, delivering exceptional results without seeking the spotlight. Outside of work, he extends his dedication to his community, volunteering with his family’s church youth program. Tuong’s quiet contributions speak volumes, leaving a meaningful mark on the MetroNational’s culture and values.
Danny Rodriguez is the embodiment of “True Blue”—a dedicated leader who leads by example and never shies away from hard work. As head of the engineering teams across MetroNational’s commercial properties, Danny combines deep operational knowledge with an unmatched work ethic, often working shoulder to shoulder with his team during storms and emergencies. Known for his ability to “move mountains in minutes,” Danny’s commitment to excellence ensures that every job is done right and done well. He’s a steward of both the company’s legacy and his own, generously sharing knowledge and investing in the growth of those around him. Whether navigating hurricane recovery efforts or lending a helping hand, Danny’s loyalty and heart have made a lasting impact on MetroNational and those fortunate enough to work with him.
Ken Hampton has been a behind-the-scenes powerhouse at MetroNational, keeping the accounting systems running smoothly and the bills paid on time. As administrator of the company’s accounting software and accounts payable, Ken ensures accuracy at every step, training others and maintaining seamless workflows. Known for his integrity, reliability, and ever-positive attitude, Ken is a trusted voice within the team, always the first to volunteer and the last to seek credit. His impact extends beyond the office, supporting community efforts through SBMSA and actively participating in company volunteer events. From naming the “MetroNet” to pioneering dual-monitor setups in the office, Ken has helped shape the culture with quiet leadership and an unwavering commitment to progress.
With a sharp mind for real estate and a memory like no other, Loretta Shumway has long been a trusted and tireless force within the company. From pioneering the title company to supporting legal projects, her work ethic and dedication are unmatched. Even while facing significant personal challenges, Loretta showed up every single day without complaint, modeling resilience and loyalty. Her deep-rooted integrity and commitment to service extend beyond the office, where she’s active in her church, volunteers in local schools, and is even a deputized citizen. A proud University of Texas alum and self-proclaimed country girl, Loretta has left a legacy built on hard work, humility, and an unwavering commitment to her people and community.
Over a remarkable 40-year career, Billy Reed became a cornerstone of both the company and the Johnson family. Known for his vast knowledge, unwavering reliability, and calming presence, Billy rose through the ranks serving in key roles across IT, corporate tax, and ultimately as head of the family office—trusted with both personal and corporate finances. His phenomenal memory and deep understanding of company history made him an invaluable advisor. Beyond his responsibilities, Billy built genuine relationships, treating colleagues and family members alike with warmth, respect, and care. Easy to talk to and always ready to help, Billy shaped a culture of trust and connection. Even in retirement, Billy continues to serve as a consultant, carrying forward his legacy of thoughtful stewardship and loyal service.
Rose McClanahan brought a unique blend of precision, passion, and people-first leadership to her role, becoming an integral part of both the accounting team and MetroNational culture. Known for her sharp real estate and accounting expertise, she ran a tight ship—starting each day before sunrise, tracking every detail, and ensuring no task went unfinished. But beyond her technical skill, Rose was a connector. Rose mentored teammates with care, coordinated everything from team events to executive logistics, and always led with integrity, initiative, and heart.
For over 35 years, Carla Davis has been the backbone of the legal department. Having outlasted three general counsels, Carla has played a vital role in every major transaction since the company's early days. While her role began with clerical responsibilities, it soon evolved into a central administrative force, managing operations, coordinating legal team efforts, and serving as the go-to source for anything and everything legal. Her encyclopedic knowledge, unmatched accuracy, and deep dedication have made her an indispensable resource. Known for her “True Blue” spirit, Carla leads by quiet example offering unwavering support and inspiring those around her with her loyalty, compassion, and heart for service.
Since joining the company over 30 years ago, Jeff Johnson has been a pillar of integrity, loyalty, and consistency. Overseeing the mall, retail, security, and family assets, Jeff balances a demanding schedule with a deep commitment to mentorship, policy development, and long-term strategy. He leads with MetroNational’s core values—integrity, trust, impact, and legacy—guiding his decisions with the greater good in mind and building lasting relationships rooted in trust and respect. Jeff supports both colleagues and the broader community with generosity and care, and his influence extends far beyond his role. Jeff continues to shape a workplace culture that feels like home and champions initiatives that elevate the people around him.
