REFA gets ready for first in-person Gala since 2019, honoring Paul Ayoub of Nutter

Boston, MA The Real Estate Finance Association’s (REFA) members are invited to an exclusive property tour of NEMA Boston on Wednesday, September 21^st. NEMA Boston is a best-in-class, 2019 vintage, LEED Silver, 414-unit high-rise multifamily property located in the seaport district. The community features top of market finishes and common area amenities. KKR will be hosting the tour and a networking reception for REFA members in their amenity space.

Sponsorships and tickets are still available for the 34^th Annual REFA Gala on Thursday, October 6^th at Westin Copley Place, honoring Paul Ayoub, chair, Nutter with the Swain Distinguished Service Award. Ayoub joins an accomplished group of Swain Award recipients such as Kirk Sykes, co-managing partner, Accordia Partners; Tammy Jones, CEO and founder, Basis Investment Group; Jon Davis, CEO and founder, The Davis Companies; Bryan Koop, EVP, Boston Properties; Pam Herbst, managing director, AEW; mayor Thomas Menino; The Bulfinch Companies Inc.; and WinnCompanies.

When asked about the award, Ayoub said, “Receiving the Swain Award is humbling, especially coming from a group I deeply respect. Appreciating those who have been recognized previously amplifies the privilege of being a recipient. To the extent that receiving the Swain award helps to further inspire others to contribute to the betterment of our industry and our community, especially with respect to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, it will be even more rewarding.”

REFA executive director Adrienne Maley said, “Paul has been a member of the REFA board for over 15 years, including serving as board president in 2018. He has distinguished himself among those in the industry as an exceptional leader and impactful member of the real estate community. Paul helped transform REFA into a strong voice in the commercial real estate industry and the vibrant, inclusive organization it is today, and there is no one more deserving to receive this year’s Swain Distinguished Service Award.”

2022 REFA president Lauren O’Neil, COO, Private Equity, AEW Capital Management, said, “Paul has been a role model in his professional and philanthropic work for so many in the industry over his tenured career. He is one of those rare individuals who has big ideas and then the fortitude to follow through with them to ensure they get accomplished. Paul has continuously been a giver to his family, community and the real estate industry with no expectation of anything in return. It is an honor to be able to recognize all he has done.”

Back in person for the first time since 2019, the REFA Gala brings together 500 leaders from the commercial real estate industry for an evening of networking and celebration!

Learn more about REFA, including membership, events, and ways to get involved, please visit us at www.refa.org. Follow REFA’s LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @REFABoston.