What first drew you to get involved with the Research Foundation?

While I’ve held a variety of leadership roles across the association and in my chapter [CREDA Central Ohio] over the years, contributing to the Best Practices in Data Center Development e-book gave me a firsthand look at the Research Foundation’s work. As I explored it further, I was struck by the commitment of so many accomplished professionals working together to position CREDA as a true thought leader in the industry.

What role does the Foundation play in the commercial real estate industry?

It’s pretty simple: CRE developers improve our communities through the investments they make and the risks they take every day – and the Foundation exists to support those developers.

The Foundation provides value to the industry through thought leadership on important issues and by delivering timely, relevant information to our members and other CRE stakeholders.

As our industry evolves, the Foundation’s work focuses on balancing forward-looking thought leadership on key topics (e.g., AI, data centers) with the consistent publication of economic impact reports, capital markets reports, and other resources that our members and stakeholders rely on.

For me personally, it’s also about helping to shape sound public policy so developers can continue to strengthen and improve our communities.

Is there a research project or initiative that’s particularly stood out to you?

Given that much of my team’s work over the past three years has focused on data center development across the United States – and even in parts of South America – the Best Practices in Data Center Development e-book stands out. It’s especially meaningful because it gave rising professionals on our team the opportunity to contribute directly, allowing them to play a role in shaping an important industry resource.

What trends are you watching most closely in commercial real estate today?

With the surge in – and growing opposition to – data center development, I’m paying close attention to energy policy, innovation and the rise of increasingly anti-development public policy.

I’m encouraged by how technology companies and others are driving innovations to make our electric grid more resilient and efficient. At the same time, I’m concerned about the lack of leadership in many statehouses and governors’ offices. In too many cases, elected officials are reinforcing NIMBYism and undermining economic growth through data center moratoriums, increased taxes on investment, and other misguided policy decisions.

What are you most optimistic about when it comes to the Foundation’s future?

I’m optimistic because we continue to focus on the fundamentals – delivering strong thought leadership and providing valuable information to industry stakeholders – while also investing in the next generation of leaders through programs like the Visionaries.

The Foundation helps me see around corners as well as better understand what’s right in front of me. For professionals earlier in their careers, developing that same perspective can help them stand out – not just among their peers, but even among more senior professionals.

Learn more about the Governors program.