2026 REFF Mentorship Program
We are excited to launch REFF’s new Mentorship Program for 2026! This small group format will inspire connection and growth in an industry where relationships are paramount.
STRUCTURE
Each mentorship group will consist of five to six mentees who share interests, experience, or roles in similar product types or sectors. Each group is led by one mentor, with one mentee serving as the Group Coordinator.
Groups are expected to meet at least five to six times throughout the year, ideally once every 1–2 months from February through October. Meetings can take many forms – career lessons, goal-setting discussions, case studies, project tours, guest speakers, social events, or any other format the group agrees on to strengthen relationships and encourage shared learning.
This program is open to REFF members who have less than 10 years of experience in commercial real estate.
COMMITMENT
All participants must be fully committed to the Mentorship Program to create the engaged and collaborative environment necessary for a successful experience. Consistent participation and thoughtful involvement are key to building trust and maximizing the value of the program for everyone involved.
Mentorship Program Attendance Policy
Attendance at every session is mandatory. The program will meet 5–6 times from February through October. Full group attendance is expected at all meetings.
Excused absences must be pre-approved at least 48 hours in advance by your Group Coordinator and the REFF Program Chairs. Violations of this policy may result in dismissal from the program.
Please Note: There will be a mandatory in-person Kickoff Event on Thursday, February 5th, 2026. Please hold this date on your calendar.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Confidentiality is absolute, what’s shared in the group stays in the group – always and forever.
ACTIVE PARTICIPATION
Mentees should come into the program with clear goals, whether it's receiving career advice, learning from peers and mentors, or exploring issues in their sector.
Each mentee is responsible for facilitating at least one group meeting (agenda planning, scheduling, etc.). This is critical to ease the burden on the mentor and keep the group organized and engaged.
COST
Participation in the 2026 Mentorship Program is free for REFF members.
CONFIRMED MENTORS FOR 2026:
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Amanda Nunnink, Senior Managing Director, Kayne Anderson Real Estate
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Christine Kolb, Head of Development, Quad Capital Partners
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Karen Case, Vice Chair, CIBC
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Katie Dale, Managing Partner, DLA Piper
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Kristina Lynn, Senior Director, Nuveen
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Liz Arnold, Vice President, CBRE
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Megan May, Senior Vice President, Heitman
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Meghan Czechowski, Senior Vice President, Apprise by Walker & Dunlop
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Nicole Aguiar, Managing Director, CIBC
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Stacey Nadolny, Group Leader, Western Alliance Bank
Application Deadline: Sunday, November 16, 2025 at 11:59 PM
For questions, please contact VPs of Programs:
Nisha Mishra – nisha@abidecap.com
Jackie Goldsmith - jackie.goldsmith@barings.com
