Debi Kroger
President
Debi Kroger is President of Boardwalk Investments Group, where she works closely with ownership to advance the firm’s investment strategy, reinforce operational discipline, and drive long‑term portfolio performance.
She brings nearly 20 years of commercial real estate experience across multifamily, industrial, retail, office, and hospitality assets. Since joining Boardwalk in 2021, Debi has helped lead over $600 million in acquisitions and supported more than $350 million in financing transactions, contributing to the firm’s continued growth and expansion.
Debi’s background spans underwriting, acquisitions, financing, asset management, and risk oversight. She is known for a fundamentals‑driven approach, sound judgment, and a focus on accountability, collaboration, and long‑term value creation. She holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Finance from California State University, Fullerton, and is an active member of ULI and ICSC.
Vanessa Hong
Controller
Vanessa Hong is a seasoned financial controller with over 20 years of expertise in financial management, reporting, and compliance. As the Controller at Boardwalk Investments Group, she oversees all financial operations, leveraging her expertise in budget forecasting, cash flow management, and cost analysis to drive profitability and growth within the company’s real estate portfolio.
Hong excels in managing complex property transactions, development projects, and leasing portfolios. She is dedicated to maintaining financial accuracy while implementing innovative processes to enhance efficiency and streamline operations.
Previously, Hong oversaw revenue recognition for 30 investment funds totaling over $50 billion in assets. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Southern California and has been a licensed CPA in California since 2002. An avid outdoors enthusiast with a passion for cultural exploration, she enjoys hiking and traveling in her free time.
LUKE JOHNSTON
Vice President, Real Estate
Luke Johnston joined Boardwalk Investments Group in 2021 and serves as the Vice President of Real Estate. In this role, he oversees leasing, property management, and construction initiatives, leveraging his expertise in market research and analysis to drive strategic growth and operational efficiency. His efforts ensure that the company’s diverse portfolio—spanning business parks, retail centers, and hospitality properties—is positioned for long-term success.
With a strong background in real estate management, Johnston focuses on maximizing asset value while fostering strong relationships with tenants, partners, and stakeholders. His dedication and results-driven approach play a key role in shaping Boardwalk’s investment strategy and optimizing property performance.
Johnston holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Finance from the University of La Verne. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, surfing, and spending time at the beach.
WAYNE LEON
Asset Manager
Wayne Leon serves as the Asset Manager at Boardwalk Investments Group, overseeing a diverse portfolio of retail, commercial, and hospitality properties. Since joining Boardwalk in 2022, Leon has ensured each asset operates efficiently while maximizing its potential and long-term value.
With over a decade of experience in real estate management, Leon brings a sharp eye for detail and a strategic approach to optimizing property performance. His expertise allows him to tailor management and execution strategies to meet the unique needs of each asset. A key member of the Boardwalk team, he continually expands his knowledge across various trades, refining his skills in property analysis and maintenance.
Leon holds a Bachelor’s Degree from San Diego State University. Beyond work, Leon shares his passion for baseball with his family by visiting MLB stadiums across the country, creating lasting memories with his kids.
MADELYN MARESCA
Director, Human Resources
Madelyn Maresca serves as the Director of Human Resources at Boardwalk Investments Group, where she shapes HR strategy, policies, and procedures across both corporate and hospitality sectors. Known for her problem-solving skills and commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture, she oversees talent management, compliance, and organizational development. With a people-first approach aligned with Boardwalk’s business objectives, Maresca navigates complex challenges with innovative solutions, prioritizing employee well-being and company growth.
Before joining Boardwalk in 2022, Maresca was the Human Resources Business Partner at Stem Audio, where she played a foundational role in establishing the company’s HR department. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in health science from California State University, Fullerton. Passionate about wellness, she enjoys yoga, reading, and traveling in her free time.
Joshua VanDeBrake
Vice President, Marketing
Joshua VanDeBrake is the Vice President of Marketing at Boardwalk Investments Group, where he leads brand strategy, demand generation, and revenue operations across the company’s portfolio. Since joining in 2023, VanDeBrake has overhauled the company’s digital analytics and performance marketing program to unlock new levels of insight and measurable impact, and built a center of excellence team model designed around the customer lifecycle to drive greater efficiency.
Before joining Boardwalk, VanDeBrake led web strategy at CoreLogic, the global leader in property data and analytics, and oversaw digital marketing at Villa Real Estate, where his work helped shape the growth of the region’s premier brokerage.
A competitive hybrid athlete, VanDeBrake regularly competes in hybrid fitness events. Outside of work, he enjoys writing, cooking, and spending time with his wife and two young children.