Mentorship, market trends, and meaningful engagement at the Real Estate Finance Association

Boston, MA The Real Estate Finance Association (REFA) has officially kicked off its 10^th Annual Mentor Program, setting a new record with 66 mentor-mentee pairs. This yearlong initiative connects Emerging Leader Members with senior professionals, fostering mentorship, career development, and industry connections.

With a robust lineup of dedicated events and ongoing one-on-one engagement, participants gain invaluable insights, career guidance, and a strong professional network. Special thanks to our tri-chairs, Kristen Binck, Oxford Properties Group, Ryan Parker, JLL, and Vincent Norton, UrbanMeritage, for their leadership. We also extend our gratitude to REFA president Jill Sharif, Commonwealth Land Title Insurance Company – National Commercial Services, for helping to launch this milestone program.

Industry Trends and Expert Perspectives: Shaping REFA’s 2025 Programming

REFA’s Programs Committee continues to deliver high-impact educational programming, providing members with critical market insights and networking opportunities.

On March 11, REFA hosted the Winter Conferences Recap at Nutter in the Seaport, offering key takeaways from four major commercial real estate conferences: ALIS, CREFC, MBA, and NMHC. Marilyn Mawn, Managing Director at Fidelity, moderated a discussion on industry trends, economic forecasts, and emerging opportunities shaping the 2025 market. Panelists included:

• Rachel Hunter-Goldman, managing director, KKR;

• Al Della Porta, head of capital markets, AEW; and

• Alan Suzuki, managing director, JLL.

REFA Emerging Leaders were invited to a special Executive Insights event featuring Paul Nasser on March 20, at Tishman Speyer: 125 High St. Nasser, president of Intercontinental Real Estate Corp. and 2024 REFA Gala honoree, shared industry insights, leadership strategies, and perspectives on the evolving real estate landscape. The complimentary event offered a unique opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s most respected voices.

Save the Date! REFA’s Charitable Golf & Tennis Tournament: Monday, July 28, Nashawtuc Country Club, Concord, MA

Get ready for a new course and the same great cause! REFA’s Annual Charitable Golf & Tennis Tournament is teeing off at an exciting new location this year. Both tournaments support our incredible Charitable Partners, Breaktime and FamilyAid Boston. Stay tuned—full details will be announced in early May!

To learn more about REFA, including membership, events, and ways to get involved, please visit us at www.refa.org. Follow REFA’s LinkedIn, X, and Instagram @REFABoston.