by Peter Madrid | Apr 14, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (April 14, 2026) – The 13th REIAC/Rockefeller Group Challenge on May 6 again offers a cash prize to a winning team of graduating Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) students from Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business.
Competing teams of graduating ASU MRED students will each present their response to a request for development for approximately 247.4 acres of land comprised of six separate tax parcels at Turf Paradise in Phoenix. Presentations will be evaluated by four celebrity judges, with audience members invited to ask questions alongside the judges.
Following the presentations, the judges will caucus privately while the audience casts live votes via Slido, with results displayed in real time. The audience vote will serve as a fifth vote and be included in the judges’ final decision to determine the winning team.
Team presentations will be limited to 10 minutes. Each member of the winning team receives a check for $1,000 from REIAC and the Rockefeller Group.
The event is at Arizona Biltmore Golf Club Adobe Bar & Grille, 2400 Biltmore Estates Drive, in Phoenix. Registration and networking begin at 3:30 p.m. The presentations are from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. with voting and announcement of the winning team shortly after. A networking mixer will be held after the announcement.
“Our REIAC chapter deeply values the collaboration with Arizona State University, as it allows us to mentor and support the next wave of talented developers in Arizona,” said Cindy Hammond, REIAC Southwest President and Owner of Churchill Commercial Capital. “These remarkable young individuals are shaping the future of our industry, and we are proud to play a part in their journey.”
Mark Stapp, Executive Director of the MRED program, described the students’ thesis as “a culminating experience that demands the application of everything students have learned. These projects present wicked problems that push the boundaries of students’ knowledge and would pose a challenge even for the most seasoned professionals.”
“The Rockefeller Group is honored to participate in what has become an annual tradition that has provided additional motivation for MRED students to be selected as one of the top three teams to compete in the Challenge,” said Mark Singerman, Past President of the REIAC Southwest Chapter and Vice President/Regional Director-Arizona for The Rockefeller Group, the event’s title sponsor.
“The inspiring and creative solutions the teams have presented at the Challenge over the years demonstrate what a fabulous job Mark Stapp and his staff have done in preparing the students for careers in real estate development and investment,” Singerman said.
Registration is required for the event. Registration fee is $30 for non-members; students will be admitted free. Register here.
About REIAC
The Real Estate Investment Advisory Council (REIAC) was established as a nonprofit trade association to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas, concerns and experiences among senior executives who conduct commercial real estate transactions. The invitation-only group limits its membership to senior-level executives at companies, who act as principals, and whose function is to develop, acquire, manage and/or finance commercial real estate. Institutional quality programs and peer-to-peer relationship-building opportunities have established REAIC’s reputation throughout the national real estate investment community as one of its premier associations. www.reiac.org
About MRED
In nine months, the W. P. Carey Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) prepares students to lead real estate development projects that are environmentally respectful, socially responsible, and artfully designed. The MRED program is transdisciplinary, aligning principled instruction with dynamic real-world application. MRED is a unique partnership between four highly regarded schools within Arizona State University: The W. P. Carey School of Business; The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law; The Herberger Institute for Design; and the Arts The Del E. Webb School of Construction https://programs.wpcarey.asu.edu/masters-programs/real-estate-development
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by Peter Madrid | Apr 14, 2026 | News & Updates
MESA, Ariz. (April 14, 2026) — SkyPlus Hotel Corporation celebrated the groundbreaking of a new dual-branded Wingate by Wyndham® and Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham® hotel yesterday morning at SkyBridge Arizona, marking the first hospitality development on the SkyBridge property.
The ground-up hotel development is located at 6639 S. Sossaman Road in Mesa, near Mesa Gateway Airport. It is designed to serve business travelers, extended-stay guests, and visitors supporting the region’s growing international trade and logistics activity. The hotel is scheduled to open in spring 2027.
The hotel is being developed by SkyPlus Hotel Corp., with Alston Construction serving as the general contractor of record and Reflect Architecture as the architect of record. It is projected to create up to 248 direct/indirect construction jobs and 111 direct/indirect operations employment positions during the hotel’s construction and stabilization.
“Every time I stand at a SkyBridge groundbreaking, I feel at home because it brings us back to the people and the shared vision that started this journey,” said Ariel Picker, President of PeakAir Developments. “What began a few years ago as an integrated vision is now becoming reality, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved with this hotel. Nothing here is a coincidence. You plant seeds with the right partners, and over time they grow, just as we’ve seen at the airport over the past nine years. This project brings life, opportunity, and momentum to everyone who wants to be part of this place.”
To date, SkyBridge has delivered more than 45.52 acres of developed parcels and infrastructure, valued at more than $98 million in construction and design costs. All completed buildings are fully leased, and the hotel will be the fifth completed building in the development.
“It’s an honor to reach this milestone for a project that began with a vision far greater than a single asset; one designed to benefit an entire region,” said Alan Picker, Vice President of New Developments, PeakAir Developments. “From day one, SkyBridge was envisioned as an integrated platform bringing together trade, logistics, aviation, business, and hospitality to create a seamless experience. This hotel is a key piece of that infrastructure, supporting job growth and helping Mesa meet the evolving expectations of today’s travelers. We’re grateful to our stakeholders and proud to work alongside an incredible team to build projects that endure.”
Once complete, the 70,586 SF hotel will feature 129 guest rooms across the dual brands and include a range of amenities designed to support both short- and long-term stays. Planned features include a fitness center, swimming pool, meeting and event space accommodating up to 350 people, EV charging stations, airport shuttle service, and a future restaurant pad.
SkyBridge Arizona is a 363-acre international trade and logistics hub uniquely positioned adjacent to Mesa Gateway Airport. The development is designed to support aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and international commerce, with direct access to both airside and landside operations.
“It’s incredible to be here and to see this project take shape. There’s nothing more exciting than heavy equipment and dirt because it represents the future of what’s happening in Mesa,” said Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman. “The continued growth at Mesa Gateway Airport, with millions of travelers each year, underscores the need for a quality workforce and extended‑stay accommodations like this hotel. We were proud to support and help expedite this project. I’m deeply grateful to the SkyBridge team for its partnership and vision. This is truly an incredible journey for our city.”
The dual-brand Wingate and Hawthorn Suites hotel is expected to play a key role in supporting SkyBridge Arizona’s ongoing growth by providing convenient, high-quality accommodations for business travelers, visiting executives, and extended-stay guests. Also in proximity is Arizona Athletic Grounds, one of the largest youth sports and entertainment complexes (275 acres) in North America. SkyPlus Hotel officials said they hope to partner with AAG to accommodate out-of-town players and their families.
“What a great day to be here and to be part of a project driven by vision and strong partnerships,” said Hennie van Niekerk, Preconstruction Manager with Alston Construction. “For more than four decades, Alston has grown by working alongside clients to help them build lasting legacies, something that can only be done together, not alone. We’re proud to have been selected to build this hotel and honored to partner with SkyPlus and the entire team to help bring that legacy to life.”
Once complete, the 70,586 SF hotel will feature 129 guest rooms across the dual brands and include a range of amenities designed to support both short- and long-term stays. Planned features include a fitness center, swimming pool, meeting and event space accommodating up to 350 people, EV charging stations, airport shuttle service, and a future restaurant pad.
About SkyPlus Hotel Corporation
SkyPlus Hotel Corporation is a hospitality development company focused on delivering modern hotel experiences that serve both business and leisure travelers. With a vision rooted in connectivity, SkyPlus Hotel specializes in projects that integrate transportation hubs, commercial centers, entertainment, and international trade corridors. It emphasizes efficiency, comfort, and brand partnerships with recognized hospitality operators. SkyPlus Hotel Corporation is based in Mesa, Arizona, and is a subsidiary of PeakAir Developments. Each PeakAir project reflects an obsession with detail and a commitment to long-term value. You can view all projects at www.peakairdevelopments.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Apr 6, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 6, 2026) – MCR Companies is pleased to announce the expansion of its investment platform with the creation of a dedicated multifamily division, led by industry veteran Dusty Eddy, MBA, who has joined the real estate and private equity firm as Partner | Head of Multifamily.
In this newly created role, Eddy will lead multifamily investment strategy across Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Southern California. He will be responsible for sourcing, underwriting, and executing multifamily investments designed to deliver attractive, risk-adjusted returns for MCR Companies’ investors. His responsibilities span the full investment lifecycle, including acquisitions, due diligence, contract negotiations, debt and capital sourcing, closings, asset and construction management oversight, dispositions, and investor relations.
Eddy will also play a key role in launching and scaling the firm’s multifamily investment platform and building a regional team dedicated to the sector.
“Dusty is a proven multifamily investor with a long track record of disciplined execution and value creation in some of the most competitive markets in the country,” said Tim Reardon, Managing Partner with MCR Companies. “His experience building and operating institutional quality platforms, combined with his local market knowledge in the Southwest, makes him an exceptional addition to our partnership. The formation of MCR’s multifamily division represents an important evolution for our firm, and Dusty’s leadership will be instrumental as we establish and grow this platform.”
Eddy brings more than 24 years of experience in real estate acquisitions, development, and asset management. He founded Eddy Capital in 2024. Prior to that, he served as Senior Vice President at 29th Street Capital, where he led the firm’s Southwest multifamily platform for more than a decade, acquiring 22 properties totaling more than 3,500 units and completing 15 full-cycle transactions.
Earlier in his career, Eddy was an Acquisitions Manager at Healthcare Trust of America, where he acquired more than $500 million in medical office buildings, and an Acquisitions and Financial Associate with The Sterling Group, a Midwest-based multifamily owner operator.
Eddy is widely regarded as a multifamily expert and has spoken at industry conferences including Interface Multifamily, IMN, and Bisnow Multifamily. He has also been featured on numerous industry podcasts and shows, including The Multifamily Hangout, The Capital Raiser Show, Best Ever Multifamily Syndication Show, and Cash Flow Connections Real Estate.
“I’m excited to join an entrepreneurial firm like MCR Companies, which values a local, boots-on-the-ground model that allows for identifying unique opportunities and executing a business plan to support superior returns for our investors,” Eddy said.
Eddy holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Real Estate/Urban Land Economics and Finance from the University of Wisconsin and an MBA in Entrepreneurship from the University of Notre Dame
He currently serves as a volunteer on the Regional Advisory Council for Apartment Life. Outside of work, Eddy enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and coaching his children’s sports teams.
“With Dusty’s appointment, MCR Companies is formally establishing its multifamily investment platform and deepening its focus on high-growth Western U.S. markets,” Reardon said. “We expect to accelerate acquisition activity, expand our operating platform, and pursue both core plus and value-add opportunities that align with our long-term demographic and housing demand trends.”
About MCR Companies
MCR Companies is a leading firm in the real estate and private equity industries, with a proven record of accomplishment and a team of highly experienced professionals. With more than 100 years of combined experience and direct involvement in more than $1 billion worth of transactions, it possesses the acumen and resources necessary to tackle even the most intricate and demanding projects. At the nucleus of its corporate ethos lie the virtues of integrity, transparency, resourcefulness, and a dedication to excellence. These guiding principles inform every aspect of its business and are integral to its success. For more information visit mcrcompanies.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Mar 31, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, Ariz. (March 31, 2026) – Coe & Van Loo Consultants, Inc. (CVL), a civil engineering firm and leading provider of comprehensive design services, is proud to announce the hiring of industry leader Shane Hanneman, PLA, CPESC, as Senior Project Manager.
Hanneman possesses more than 30 years of landscape architecture experience. In his new role at CVL, he will manage the public sector pursuits and project delivery for the landscape architecture department, mentor staff, and grow the CVL brand. Most of his projects integrate expertise from several departments.
Hanneman joins CVL after serving as a project manager for public‑sector projects statewide for the past five years with J2 Engineering and Environmental Design.
“Shane brings an exceptional blend of technical expertise, leadership, and deep public-sector experience,” said CVL President and CEO Ryan Weed, PE. “His ability to guide complex, multi‑disciplinary projects and mentor emerging talent makes him an invaluable addition to our team. We’re excited to see the impact he will have on our landscape architecture practice and the communities we serve.”
Hanneman’s background spans project management, public facilitation, master planning, development guidelines, feasibility studies, and full‑cycle design and construction administration. A proven leader in parks, civic, and infrastructure work, he has guided the vision and design of nearly 100 parks across the Southwest and beyond.
His portfolio also includes municipal buildings, downtown redevelopments, aquatic centers, recreation facilities, trail systems and trailheads, roadways, freeway corridors, and flood control facilities. He is highly experienced in coordinating with agencies such as ADOT, MCDOT, Valley Metro, and county flood control districts; integrating drainage, mobility, and public space into cohesive, resilient solutions.
Hanneman’s private‑sector work is equally robust, encompassing resorts, spas, golf clubhouses, school campuses, commercial and retail developments, and residential land development. Many of these projects required complex topographic integration and thoughtful responses to arid desert environments, resulting in designs that balance aesthetics, constructability, long‑term maintenance, and fiscal responsibility.
Projects which Hanneman has worked on include Anthem Community Park, Wild Horse Pass Resort, Troon Clubhouse, Aji Spa, Pecos Park, Grayhawk Park, Friendship Park, East Mesa Community Park, Sunbelt Park, Veteran’s Memorial at Veteran’s Oasis Park, SR 303 Construction Management, Reems Road Basin and Channel, Kingman Trails master plan, San Luis Downtown Redevelopment, West Somerton Master Plan, and River Island OHV Trailhead.
A native of Newton, Iowa, Hanneman earned a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Iowa State University in 1995. He also earned an MBA from the Arizona State University WP Carey School of Business in 2005.
Hanneman gives back to the industry as a mentor for ACE programs that teach high school students about the design and construction industry. He has taught the Landscape Architecture Registration Exam (LARE) review courses. Hanneman has also graded the grading and drainage section of the LARE exam for the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards.
Away from the office, Hanneman enjoys cooking, barbecuing, hiking (sometimes using the facilities he has designed), traveling to Mexico, and displaying his 1992 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo at auto shows, a muscle car his father handed down to him. He has two daughters, ages 17 and 25.
Hanneman said Mexico holds a special place in his personal and professional lives.
“My love for Mexico, the culture, the design, the history, fascinates me,” Hanneman said. “Much of my inspiration lately has been rooted in its history and architectural influences.”
About CVL
Founded in southwestern Arizona as Coe & Van Loo in 1958, our company has made a lasting impact on communities across the continent by providing the highest level of service to private clients and governmental agencies. CVL specializes in civil engineering, land surveying, landscape architecture, water/wastewater, stormwater engineering, land planning, construction observation, and permitting. Our highly qualified teams plan and revitalize communities, design infrastructure, and create innovative solutions. To learn more about CVL visit cvlci.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Mar 25, 2026 | News & Updates
PRESCOTT, Ariz. (March 25, 2026) – Arizona Commercial Real Estate, an Arizona–based full-service firm founded by Matthew Fish and Lacey Fish, is gaining recognition for its locally rooted, integrated approach to brokerage and property management services across the region.
Built on the vision of delivering institutional-quality execution while remaining deeply connected to local markets, Arizona Commercial Real Estate combines strategic brokerage expertise with hands-on property management to support long-term asset performance. It provides brokerage, advisory, and property management services across multiple asset classes. With a focus on local expertise, transparency, and execution, the firm serves investors, owners, and users throughout Arizona.
Matthew Fish leads the firm’s brokerage, focusing on acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, and strategic deal execution across retail, land, multifamily, office, and industrial assets. His market-driven approach emphasizes clarity, precision, and results.
“Our team is built to handle every major property type in Arizona, including industrial, multifamily, hospitality, office, retail, and land development,” Matthew Fish said. “That versatility allows us to meet clients wherever they are in the market and deliver solutions that match the unique needs of each asset.”
Lacey Fish oversees the firm’s property management division, focusing on operational efficiency, proactive maintenance, and tenant experience. By aligning day-to-day management with broader investment strategy, the firm ensures properties are positioned for sustained performance and long-term value creation.
Unlike firms that operate remotely in secondary markets, the company maintains a strong on-the-ground presence throughout Arizona. This local insight allows the team to navigate zoning, infrastructure, and market dynamics while delivering tailored solutions for each asset and submarket.
As Arizona continues to attract investment and development activity, Arizona Commercial Real Estate is positioned to play a key role in shaping responsible growth throughout the region. By integrating brokerage strategy with disciplined property management, the company offers a comprehensive platform designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s commercial real estate market.
“We are humbled by the growth and the communities we serve,” said Nina Wiley, Chief Marketing Officer. “Our growth is a direct reflection of the results we deliver, the relationships we build, and the confidence clients place in our team. We’re proud of the impact we’re making across Arizona’s commercial real estate landscape.”
For more information, call (928) 515-2113 or visit arizonacre.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Mar 24, 2026 | News & Updates
AVONDALE, Ariz. (March 24, 2026) – Ascent Companies and Merit Partners are proud to announce the grand opening of The Stately Avondale, an amenity-rich, 286-unit apartment community open and welcoming residents with immediate move-in opportunities.
This is what Avondale, Arizona, has been waiting for: a new standard for luxury living designed with comfort, style, and modern convenience in mind.
The Stately Avondale, 12375 W. Van Buren St., offers thoughtfully crafted one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences featuring custom finishes and upscale details that elevate everyday living.
Residents can enjoy a wide range of premium amenities, including a resort-style pool and spa with lounges and cabanas, pickleball courts, two dog parks with a wash station, an on-site mini mart, and a state-of-the-art 24/7 fitness center. Additional offerings include private garages with EV charging ports, co-working stations, outdoor entertainment spaces with grills and fireplaces, and mobile app–controlled access for seamless convenience.
Inside the homes, residents will find Samsung stainless steel appliances, marble-like quartz countertops, tile backsplashes, full-size Wi-Fi-enabled washers and dryers, Nest smart thermostats, USB-C kitchen outlets, blackout roller shades, and luxury vinyl plank flooring, along with extra sound-dampening measures for a peaceful retreat. Extended patios or balconies, spacious pantries, and linen closets provide both functionality and style.
“We are proud to celebrate the grand opening of The Stately Avondale and our investment in the continued growth of Avondale,” said Bradly Richardson Jr., President of Ascent Companies. “The Stately was thoughtfully designed to offer the highest quality of finishes, modern amenities, and a place our residents can feel proud to call home. We are excited to be a part of the Avondale community and excited to be called home by our future residents.”
The Stately Avondale is professionally managed by Bryten Real Estate Partners.
For more information, call (623) 377-9248 or visit thestatelyavondale.com/
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by Peter Madrid | Mar 17, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, Ariz. (March 17, 2026) – Momentum Health Partners, a healthcare-focused private equity platform backed by MCR Companies, today announced its official launch alongside the acquisition of Advanced Autism Center for Treatment (AACT), a leading provider of autism and developmental therapy services.
The transaction establishes Momentum Health Partners’ initial platform and reflects its strategy of partnering with founders and clinicians to build and scale high-quality healthcare services organizations.
Momentum Health Partners focuses on lower-middle-market healthcare services businesses and pursues majority partnerships with providers delivering essential, community-based care. Backed by MCR Companies and built on an operator-led foundation, the firm emphasizes disciplined execution, strong clinical leadership, and long-term value creation.
With the acquisition of AACT, Momentum Health Partners enters the autism therapy and developmental services sector with an established operating base. AACT’s center- and home-based autism programs, along with its complementary therapy and respite services, align directly with Momentum’s focus on clinically grounded organizations demonstrating consistent execution and measurable patient outcomes.
“Momentum Health Partners was built to partner with providers who are deeply committed to the families they serve,” said Ed Staren, Partner at the firm. “AACT has demonstrated operational discipline, strong clinical leadership, and meaningful patient impact. We look forward to supporting the team as they continue to grow.”
Momentum Health Partners invests across four core verticals: autism therapy, developmental therapies, behavioral health, and specialty ambulatory care. The firm’s strategy centers on building strong platforms and executing targeted add-on acquisitions that expand access, strengthen operations, and enhance care delivery.
“We take a hands-on approach to building healthcare platforms,” said Ryan Harper, Partner at Momentum Health Partners. “Our focus is on implementing systems, strengthening teams, and supporting sustainable growth while preserving clinical integrity. AACT is a strong first partnership, and we are focused on execution.”
The acquisition positions Momentum Health Partners for continued expansion as it seeks additional majority partnerships with provider-based healthcare organizations nationwide.
“I’m thrilled to congratulate Momentum Health Partners on their launch. Ed and Ryan’s background as healthcare operators bring a unique long-term value creation mindset,” said John Ragan, CEO of invisionAZ, a non-profit focused on growing Arizona’s capital formation ecosystem.
For more information about Momentum Health Partners, visit mh.partners.
About MCR Companies
MCR Companies is a leading firm in the real estate and private equity industries, with a proven record of accomplishment and a team of highly experienced professionals. With more than 100 years of combined experience and direct involvement in more than $1 billion worth of transactions, we possess the acumen and resources necessary to tackle even the most intricate and demanding projects. At the nucleus of our corporate ethos lie the virtues of integrity, transparency, resourcefulness, and a dedication to excellence. These guiding principles inform every aspect of our business and are integral to our success. For more information, visit mcrcompanies.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Mar 9, 2026 | News & Updates
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (March 9, 2026) – Lucky Rose Boutique, a new 1,800 SF retail concept created by Scottsdale residents Julia and Kenny Goldman, has officially opened its first brick‑and‑mortar location at 7079 E. 5th Ave. in Old Town Scottsdale.
The boutique marks the next chapter in a multigenerational retail story, as Julia Goldman follows in the footsteps of her father and mentor, who owns the successful Discovery Clothing chain in the Midwest.
The space was fully gutted and rebuilt and features custom millwork, custom signage, and a complete tenant improvement (TI) build‑out, transforming the single‑building site into a light, soft, and feminine environment tailored to a younger, style‑driven demographic. Designed by KatzDesignGroup (KDG), the boutique balances high‑quality retail presentation with playful, fast‑moving products, including custom hats, charms, and permanent jewelry.
A standout feature of the design is a custom neon art piece depicting a soft desert cactus, intentionally created as an Instagram‑ready moment that reflects both the Scottsdale landscape and the boutique’s modern, social‑forward brand identity.
“This is a really special story of second‑generation entrepreneurship,” said Beth Katz, Principal, KatzDesignGroup. “Julia grew up in the clothing business, and it shows. We looked at several locations in Old Town, but loved this space that faces the 5th Ave. fountain. I loved working with Julia and Kenny on the first Lucky Rose Boutique. I’m looking forward to seeing this roll out for more to enjoy.”
Katz collaborated closely with Carol Schillne of the Schillne Retail Team at Orion Investment Real Estate; Schillne is an AZCREW connection who helped secure the location. Before committing to the permanent location, the Goldmans tested the concept through a series of successful pop‑up stores, validating demand and refining the boutique’s product mix.
“This great space, Lucky Rose Boutique, represents Julia’s first permanent retail venture and blends her family’s retail heritage with her own vision for a fresh, feminine, and highly curated shopping experience in the heart of Old Town,” Katz said.
The project team consisted of One Way General Contractor, Leno Marin-Muzo Art Foundry (interior signage), and Tim Brennan-Great Not Good Co. (exterior mural).
KatzDesignGroup specializes in hospitality-inspired interior design, including award-winning restaurant interiors. KatzDesignGroup provides space planning, FF&E specification, custom furniture, and millwork design; construction documents; construction administration; art specification, visual rendering, and 3D animation; finish selection; and digital concept and presentation boards.
For more information, visit katzdesigngroup.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Mar 9, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, Ariz. (March 9, 2026) – The Mazzon Foundation, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the next generation of commercial real estate professionals, held its first board meeting, bringing together some of the brightest and most experienced minds in the industry.
The gathering united a diverse group of thought leaders from the Metro Phoenix and Tucson markets. They include Logan Mather; Rosalinda Bridges, CPM; Elizabeth Betsy Johnson; Nicole Salaman, CPM; Gilbert Romero; Lance Norling, AcoM; Mary Visner, CSM, CRRP; Marshall MacFarlane, SFP, IFMA Fellow; Robert Stock; and Daniel Mazzon.
Each shares a common purpose: to create opportunity, education, and growth for property managers, building engineers, brokers, and trade workers across the industry.
“If one person on a team gets better, the whole team operates at a higher level,” the Foundation’s leadership said in a statement. “The board represents a remarkable assembly of talent, experience, and passion. By coming together, these leaders are actively shaping the future of the industry, creating opportunities that will impact careers, communities, and the broader commercial real estate and multifamily landscape for years to come.”
Through fully funded scholarships for professional licenses, certifications, designations, and trade education, the Foundation is cultivating a new generation of commercial real estate and multifamily professionals ready to lead, innovate, and strengthen the industry.
The Foundation’s mission is simple yet powerful: to give back to the next generation of CRE professionals, ensuring knowledge, mentorship, and opportunity are available to those who will drive the industry forward.
To learn more about The Mazzon Foundation and its mission, please visit www.themazzonfoundation.org.
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by Peter Madrid | Mar 3, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (March 3, 2026) – ULI Arizona will host its inaugural Women’s Leadership Initiative (WLI) Luncheon on April 1, bringing together leaders from across the real estate, development, investment, and civic sectors for an afternoon focused on elevating women’s voices and advancing industry leadership.
The event will feature a fireside chat with Anita Verma‑Lallian, one of Arizona’s most influential entrepreneurs and investors whose work spans real estate, film, global capital, and philanthropy.
The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. at Evie’s Pavilion at Papago Golf Club, 5595 E. Karsten Way, in Phoenix. The event ends at 1:30 p.m. following a networking session.
Verma‑Lallian is the Founder and CEO of Arizona Land Consulting. She has become a sought‑after expert in high‑stakes land strategy, including major AI data center transactions shaping the region’s economic future. Verma-Lallian is also the founder of Camelback Productions, the first South Asian, female‑owned film production company in Arizona, and a driving force behind philanthropic initiatives that expand opportunity and representation.
“Anita embodies the spirit of innovation, resilience, and community‑minded leadership that WLI exists to champion,” said Women’s Leadership Initiative Committee Chair Jennifer Swanton, Director of Business Strategy and Growth, DAVIS. “Her work at the intersection of capital, culture, and community offers a powerful model for the next generation of leaders in our industry.”
The luncheon will offer attendees the opportunity to hear Verma‑Lallian’s insights firsthand, explore the evolving landscape of leadership in Arizona, and connect with professionals committed to advancing women across the built‑environment fields. The program is open to all ULI members and non‑members.
Register here.
About ULI
The Urban Land Institute is a 501[c][3] nonprofit research and education organization supported by its members. Founded in 1936, the Institute has more than 45,000 members worldwide, representing the entire spectrum of land use and real estate development disciplines working in private enterprise and public service. As the preeminent multidisciplinary land use and real estate forum, ULI facilitates an open exchange of ideas, information, and experience among local, national, and international industry leaders and policy makers dedicated to creating better places. Learn more about ULI Arizona at arizona.uli.org.
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