Real Estate Finance Association hosts DEI Discussion Series on October 13th with Dr. Robert Livingston

Boston, MA REFA hosted its third DEI Discussion Series on October 13th on the book The Conversation, by Dr. Robert Livingston. Dr. Livingston joined the REFA members for the discussion, sharing his thoughts on their commentary and providing insight into his writing. REFA’s DEI Discussion series gives REFA members the opportunity to explore diversity, equity, and inclusion through different channels of multimedia. Each session is a guided discussion based on a movie, book, article, news-clip, etc. that brings diversity to the forefront and sparks a conversation.

On Monday, October 18^th, over 120 golfers and tennis players gathered for the Annual REFA Charitable Golf & Tennis Tournament at Dedham Country & Polo Club. The exciting afternoon included a golf tournament, tennis tournament, silent auction, putting contest, and dinner & awards ceremony. The tournament helped to raise funds for two of REFA’s charitable partners, both aiming to end homelessness in Boston: FamilyAid Boston & Rosie’s Place. This year’s tournament even featured the first hole in one ever recorded in REFA Golf Tournament history – congratulations to Nicholas Clark, Taurus Investment Holdings!

Over 100 students from 22 colleges and universities attended REFA’s Second Annual Virtual College Connection on October 19^th. The program featured panelists Greg Bohenko, acquisitions manager, Samuels & Associates; Judy Cazeau, CRE & solar developer, JC Power Connect; Kira Gonzalez, assistant VP, M&T Bank; Chris Legocki, development director, Greystar; and Amy Lousararian, director, JLL. The panelists provided an introductory overview of the CRE industry and its many career paths, and shared their tips on how to connect, network, and launch a career.

The 33^rd Annual REFA Gala is now being held virtually on November 16^th. REFA is excited to be honoring Bulfinch Companies, Inc. and WinnCompanies with the Swain Distinguished Service Award. Both companies have both gone above and beyond in the last year for our community and their employees throughout the pandemic. Over 30 sponsors and hundreds of individuals will be tuning in on the evening of the Gala to help recognize our honorees, support REFA, and reflect on the year.