NAREIM Fellows announcement

Oct 10, 2023

NAREIM is pleased to announce its 2023-2024 class of Jeff Barclay Fellows.

Each year, NAREIM awards fellowships to five outstanding graduate students in real estate programs across the US. 

The fellowship's aim is to identify and nurture the next generation of real estate investment management business leaders through a unique learning and networking opportunity. The five members of the 2022-2023 class of Jeff Barclay Fellows are:

• Blair Steele, University of Wisconsin-Madison

• Brendan Keen. Columbia University

• Megan Lawlor, NYU

• Neeva Strestha, Roosevelt University

• William Harris, SMU Cox School of Business

The Fellows joined NAREIM Executive Officer members at the annual EO meeting in Deer Valley last week where they introduced themselves, networked with and shared ideas on the future skills needed by real estate investment managers.

NAREIM members can access the Fellows resumes - along with the 64 resumes of the other applicants - here.

Testimonials from the Fellows:

Blair: "Attending the NAREIM Executive Officer meeting as a Jeff Barclay Fellow was a transformative experience. The remarkable insights shared during the blend of strategic meetings, thrilling activities, and networking opportunities shed light on the exciting possibilities within the real estate investment management industry. It was an immersive experience that not only expanded my knowledge but also emphasized the significance of connections in our industry. It was truly an honor and a profound learning experience."

Megan: "The NARIEM Executive Officer meeting was an incredible experience. As a Fellow, I felt so honored to be surrounded by such accomplished real estate professionals. The interactive and candid atmosphere allowed us to openly discuss industry challenges and share insights on overcoming them. I also had the privilege of gaining valuable career insights from executives in attendance, which I will carry with me as I advance in my career. Beyond all of the learning and networking, I also had a lot of fun along the way and felt very welcomed being there."

Neeva: “Participating in NAREIM's Executive meeting as a fellow, alongside accomplished executives has provided invaluable insight for a graduate student, like myself, aspiring to be in asset and portfolio management. This experience enhanced my understanding of the responsibilities associated with leading a real estate company. NAREIM has effectively narrowed the divide between the expectations of a seasoned leader and a novice embarking on a career. The executive meeting has broadened my perspectives and provided a lifetime of valuable professional connections.”

Brendan: "Attending this year’s NAREIM EO Meeting was such an awesome experience, and I’m so appreciative to have had the opportunity to do so. It is a complex time in our industry, and the chance to be in a room with key decision makers to see how they’re thinking about their business and investment decisions was truly impactful. I walked away with an improved perspective and many new relationships I hope to build upon going forward."

William: “Attending the NAREIM EO meeting was an invaluable experience for which I am truly grateful. The chance to engage with industry leaders through activities and breakout groups allowed me to foster organic and genuine relationships with leaders within the real estate industry. The group discussions were immensely beneficial, offering candid insights into industry trends. The Jeff Barclay Fellows Program is an opportunity that I highly recommend for any graduate student interested in commercial real estate!”