Project REAP is an organization that was created to advance diversity, equity and inclusion in the commercial real estate industry through education, mentorship, and partnerships.  In 2020, REAP and ULI partnered together to create an 8-week program of live sessions and on-demand courses providing commercial real estate training for multicultural students, and professionals.  The first graduates of the ULI/REAP Academy graduated at the end of 2020.

Following up on their graduation, the new Chicago ULI/REAP Alumni had the opportunity to gather with ULI Chicago Advisory Board member Hugh Williams, Principal & Managing Broker, MK Asset Management, ULI Chicago Public Policy Committee member and REAP alum Vic Howell, Development Manager, Focus and ULI Chicago’s Executive Director Cindy McSherry.  During this virtual program Hugh, Vic and Cindy shared about ways to engage with ULI Chicago, how ULI members have utilized connections, and the collaboration that ULI Chicago programming offers.

The ULI/REAP Academy is now accepting applications for the Spring semester.  If you know of someone who is interested in furthering their knowledge of the commercial real estate industry, please encourage them to apply.  Students will learn from industry leaders on topics such as financial analysis, market analysis, brokerage, asset management, leasing and development. REAP graduates often enter the commercial real estate field upon completion of the program largely as a result of the contacts made while a REAP student.  Completion of the ULI/REAP Academy also provides a one-year membership in ULI.