Two standout chapters from NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, have received national merit awards, recognizing their leadership, dynamic programming, and robust membership growth. The NYC Metro and SoCal chapters have both set new standards for excellence within the commercial real estate industry in 2024.
Key Takeaways
- NAIOP NYC Metro and SoCal chapters each won Chapter of the Year honors.
- NYC Metro also clinched the award for Highest Number of New Members.
- Strong partnership with Connect CRE leadership has contributed to chapter success.
Recognition of Excellence
Each year, NAIOP Corporate spotlights its most accomplished chapters through the prestigious Chapter Merit Awards. These awards celebrate chapters that demonstrate excellence in areas such as advocacy, impactful events, industry engagement, and sustained membership growth.
This year, both the SoCal and NYC Metro chapters distinguished themselves among dozens nationwide. NYC Metro achieved a rare feat by not only being named Chapter of the Year, but also recording the highest influx of new members—a testament to the chapter’s strategic outreach and programming that resonates with industry professionals.
Leadership at the Forefront
A key element in the chapters’ success has been dedicated leadership. Executive members from Connect CRE, a top industry media and events company, hold influential positions within both chapters. In Southern California, Daniel Ceniceros (CEO and founder of Connect) sits on the SoCal Board of Directors, while Sarah Quinn (EVP and co-founder) is Vice Chair of the chapter’s Awards Committee. On the East Coast, Emily Lettieri (EVP of Connect) serves as Secretary and Marketing & Communications Chair for the NYC Metro Executive Board.
This committed leadership has played a pivotal role in enhancing visibility, refining strategy, and bolstering the chapters’ influence within the broader NAIOP organization. Their collective efforts have helped strengthen community ties and boost the chapters’ industry presence.
Impact on the CRE Community
The merger of industry media insights and member programming has allowed both chapters to offer high-value opportunities for professional development, networking, and knowledge sharing. Decision-makers across the commercial real estate ecosystem have benefited from the robust platforms created by NYC Metro and SoCal NAIOP. Both chapters have helped set the pace for innovation, connection, and growth within the association.
These achievements highlight NAIOP’s ongoing commitment to advancing the commercial real estate sector by empowering its local chapters. With this year’s Chapter Merit Awards, the SoCal and NYC Metro chapters have inspired others to raise the bar for impact and engagement.