To me, it’s always seemed like a good thing to give back just little of our time–maybe more–toward developing the next generation of professionals in our industry. Plenty of people certainly did the same for me. One way I serve is on the Advisory Council of the Auburn University Master of Real Estate Development program, commonly referred to as the MRED. Hopefully I am a good mentor to these classes.
A couple of weeks ago, our 2016 class graduated. In two short years, it seems this class created quite a bond, establishing a network both inside the school and beyond. They learned the value of collaborative relationships for success.
I recently had a conversation with Michael Robinson, Director of the MRED program. He share that beyond the connections and the knowledge gained, he believes the program somehow imparts a greater sense of social responsibility in students. It transforms the “I” in investment and development into the “We” of creating stronger communities and healthier environments. These students have goals of not only building their careers, but general economic prosperity, and pride in contribution to a greater good of society.
Having been involved with MRED for a few years, and seeing all the students come back as alumni to our graduations, it seems that Professor Robinson is spot on.
