by Donald R. Washington, Jr.
Founding Principal at Bolster Real Estate Partners

The definition of a leader is not a “one size fits all” type of deal – it changes based on the person, the profession and the goal. For me, a leader is someone who has the ability to listen more than they talk. A leader who is also action-oriented and open to alternative ideas speaks volumes to me as well. This idea was only reinforced through my experience with ULI Atlanta’s Center for Leadership (CFL) program. Last September, I began the nine month program designed for real estate professionals to build their leadership capabilities and dive deeper into the challenges that face our communities, such as affordable housing, and transportation. This journey has been a life changing experience thus far.

Each class hones in on a specific topic, but for me, the most impactful session covered the different stages of developing a capitalization strategy at a range of levels. We analyzed emerging developers and their use of “family and friend” raises to larger companies using institutional capital or even philanthropic efforts. We were able to tour the Interlock project in West Midtown and leverage the development as a case study. It was eye-opening to witness the process that goes into developing a dynamic mixed-use community and the learnings from my time in the program truly began to come to life. One of the most tangible opportunities the program offers is the chance to provide real-life recommendations for local community focused projects. My group was designated the Pittsburgh Yards Project, a community-driven development in Southwest Atlanta. Our goal was to create a strategic plan on how to best activate the site and bring in new tenants and developers. We conducted background research, developed in-depth site plans and will present our findings at graduation. ULI then has the opportunity to use our plans to breathe new life into the project.

The Center for Leadership program offers a platform to discuss an array of issues facing Atlanta and the real estate industry as a whole. Something that surprised me was how the broader real estate space is either still learning or totally unaware of the socio economic issues our communities face. However, it is refreshing to be a part of a program that provides a space to learn about these ongoing issues and have provocative and intentional discussions. ULI makes a conscious effort to foster diversity and inclusion and that is reflected in our graduating class.

Overall, this program has given me the ability to grow not only in my profession, but in my leadership aspirations in Atlanta. I would like to thank the people who have made this entire program possible, Sheba Ross, Barbara Hardy and Alex Demestihas. These individuals have graciously volunteered their time to mentor and inspire our leadership class. Thank you for cultivating an environment conducive for learning and growing. I am extremely grateful for this experience and appreciate all of the hard work that went into planning and coordinating the program on our behalf.

Reflections on Leadership in Atlanta’s Real Estate Industry

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