About Us
Executive Director’s Message:
We, at Dial Communities, have been known for creating an upbeat and positive atmosphere that instills a fun attitude in our residents and employees, therefore creating active, exciting and fun-filled lifestyles throughout our communities for more than 20 years. Our mission: “Caring to Create a Lifestyle that Nurtures the Spirit,” continues on at our newest neighborhood for active adults 55+, Dominion Village.
We pride ourselves in our casual approach, as we are willing to make the necessary modifications as times and needs change. Our ears are always open to our residents’ desires, reassuring them that we truly care about their happiness and that they are “home!”
Meet Our Management Team:
Joel Pollack, Partner/Developer, Sundial Development
Obtaining his real estate license at the age of 18, Joel was the third youngest in the state of California’s history to do so at the time. By 1986, he entered the construction field building his first custom home. He relocated to San Antonio, Texas, as partner in charge of a Los Angeles based firm engaged in the construction and development of multi-family communities. He has been involved in all aspects of building and land acquisition but designing, developing and building retirement communities has been the most rewarding to him. He was commissioned to build the very successful Independence Village at Stone Oak in 2001, and is currently the construction arm for Dominion Village. His wife and two young sons love to travel, frequent restaurants and spend time with friends.
Michelle Houriet, Executive Director
With over 19 years of property management experience in San Antonio and Houston, Michelle oversees the management and operations of Independence Hill, Independence Hill Assisted Living, Independence Village and Dominion Village. She is very dedicated to creating an upbeat, respectful and exciting lifestyle in our communities, as well as having a great sense of compassion. Her ability to always find the fun in an ordinary day sets the cheerful stage for our communities’ employees, residents and members, with much laughter and fun around every corner. This native San Antonion loves to focus on of our residents/members and is also a true expert in retirement living. She will ensure our residents' decision to move in to any one of our communities, will be a decision they will wish they had made sooner! Michelle also enjoys spending time with her daughter, traveling internationally, and has recently completed her first half marathon.
Joel Katleman, Founding Partner Dial Communities
In 1958, Joel founded Dial Communities, Omaha followed by Dial Communities, San Antonio in 1968 which he partnered with his son, Gary. He has been in the housing industry since he was 21. He does not believe that “No” or “Not Possible” are acceptable answers. Joel feels that there is always a way to improve the way things are done and how concerns are addressed. He believes that with a positive attitude, the world will smile with you. He always displays confidence in the quality and character of the people around him, and accepts his role of “Cheerleader” for the team. He is our true inspiration!
Gary Katleman, President Dial Communities
As President of Dial Communities, Gary has more than 20 years of property management experience include serving as President of the San Antonio Apartment Association in 1998. He developed the Membership Concept of Independence Village in Stone Oak, a neighborhood of homes for active adults with a maintenance-free lifestyle. Gary’s mission is to always be a step ahead in providing mature adults a quality, carefree lifestyle in a traditional small-town setting. Gary was raised in Nebraska and moved to San Antonio in 1987 where he is raising his two daughters and enjoys traveling and a friendly game of poker.
Beverly Kostelnik, Lifestyle Specialist
Wearing many hats at Dominion Village, Beverly’s number one goal is to make sure our Members are happy and having the time of their life! She also works with prospective Members to help them find just the right home, then get them acclimated to the area and introduced to the community once they move in! Beverly’s background is in upscale new home sales, but her passion has changed from just “selling a house” to “selling and creating a lifestyle!” The relationship with our Members continues, which has been a true joy for her daily!
Sherrill Perez, Member Specialist
For 2 decades, Sherrill has been helping retirees find just the right home and community to fit their needs. She is an expert in senior living, always taking in what people truly want and finding the best solution for them. She enjoys raising her 2 boys and spending family time with them and her husband, a Gymnastics coach and Gym owner. Sherrill also likes playing racquetball, going to the movies and being involved in church activities.
Grace Novak, Member Specialist
Her name says it all! Each day she “graces” us with her warmth, friendliness and sincerity. Grace is so committed to finding retirees the perfect “home!” She encourages our new residents by opening doors for great friendships and a world of fun with all the freedoms they’ve always enjoyed. Her ability to understand customer needs began with her career as an International Make-Up Artist in Central America working for Lancome – Paris, and then owning “A Touch of Grace,” her own cosmetic line, for numerous years. She also spent a few years in new home sales, but enjoys the true relationships that are built with our residents and Members when they choose to move in with us!