MAY 2026 | Issue 1

Quarterly News & Updates

SAVE THE DATE


Executive Advisory Council Semiannual Meeting

June 24, 2026; 3:30 PM

Virtual


Chapman MSRE Capstone Presentations
July 9, 2026; 5:00 - 8:00 PM



Navigating the Future 
The Annual Chapman MSRE Think Tank


September 10, 2026; 7:30 - 11:00 AM
Newport Beach Country Club

PAST EVENTS

Chapman Students Claim Orange Cup at 2026 NAIOP Real Estate Challenge!


Fireside Chat with Willy Walker at Newport Beach Country Club

 

MSRE Students Meet the Firms

A Note From Our Executive Director, Steven Ames

Nearly a year into my role as Executive Director of the Alexander E. Hayden School of Real Estate at Chapman University, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional group of students committed to excellence and advancement in commercial real estate.


What stands out most is the drive, curiosity, and professionalism our students bring to their studies. Their willingness to engage, ask thoughtful questions, and pursue opportunities with intention gives me tremendous confidence in the future of the program and the profession.


As evidenced by the largest cohort in school history starting last fall, Chapman continues to build a distinctive platform that connects academic rigor with real-world experience. It is deeply rewarding to contribute to a community that not only prepares students for careers in real estate, but helps them build relationships, character, and leadership skills that will shape the industry for years to come.


As I look forward to the continued growth and positive impact of the Hayden School, I’m grateful the support of our Executive Advisory Council and our dedicated faculty and staff.


-Steven

 
 

Program Snapshot

  • 2026 MSRE cohort - largest in school history
  • 60% increase in Executive Advisory Council membership YOY
  • Multiple new jobs and internships secured - 99% placement record
  • Undergraduate degree starting this Fall
  • Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Development initiative in development
  • Chapman Real Estate Association grew to over 270 members

ANNOUNCING!

We are excited to announce the Chapman CRE Webcast, Season 1. Listen on Spotify or Apple. Full video webisodes are available on our YouTube Playlist.


Catch Episode 1: Beyond the Deal | How Chapman Is Redefining Real Estate Education with Alex Hayden & Perry Schonfeld.

 
 
 

Event Highlights: Fireside with Willy Walker


The Chapman University MSRE program recently hosted Willy Walker, Chairman and CEO of Walker & Dunlop, for a wide-ranging conversation moderated by John Murray, Managing Director at PIMCO. The event was opened by Alex Hayden of CBRE, who noted the program's 99% job placement rate and growing Executive Advisory Council. Walker offered candid insights on the state of commercial real estate, market psychology, company culture, and the challenge of navigating an AI-driven economy.

 
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