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2011 Men of the Year Honoree: Sam E. Coryell

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People might be surprised to learn that Sam E. Coryell, the CEO of TLC Properties LLC, was a college music professor and music minister for nearly 30 years before he co-founded the company in 1988.

At its inception, TLC had a single rental property, but it has grown to encompass 14 apartment communities with roughly 3,000 apartments. The company has more than 50 full-time employees, with projections calling for $20.4 million in revenues and $1.6 million in payroll for 2011.

“I have considered my overarching task to paint the big picture and provide the vision for the development of TLC through the continued growth of our employees,” Coryell says. “As I have been able to communicate the vision and develop means to translate that vision into reality, the company has grown.”

TLC’s Springfield properties include Coryell Courts, Coryell Crossing, Orchard Park and The Abbey.

From the beginning, Coryell did his best to think about the future of apartment dwelling, and he designed his properties accordingly.

“Sensing that women were the primary decision makers in choosing apartments, I geared the floor plans to them – two baths in two-bedroom apartments, large closets, spacious baths, and appealing and modern kitchens.”

He also focused on amenities, adding pools, recreation areas, fitness centers, movie theaters and other extras to give the company’s apartment developments a resort feel.

TLC was named the 2009 W. Curtis Strube Small Business of the Year by the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, and it was the Springfield Apartment and Housing Association’s 2005 Large Owner of the Year.

Coryell says his musical background has influenced the aesthetics at TLC Properties.

“Appealing architectural styles provide powerful curb appeal, and decorator interior design has resulted in apartments with a greater single-family home feel,” he says. “I feel that the discipline, organizational skills, perseverance and aesthetic sensitivity gained in my educational pursuits and career have contributed greatly to my success in multifamily development.”

TLC and the Coryell family are key supporters of March of Dimes, contributing more than $100,000 to the nonprofit’s local chapter. Other organizations that Coryell has supported include Springfield Symphony, Springfield Regional Opera and the Price Cutter Charity Championship.

“My involvement in civic affairs stems from the sincere desire to thank Springfield for the blessings and opportunities that this city has afforded us, and the belief that to whom much is given, much is required,” he says.

From 2011 Men of the Year


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