ULI Florida: 2026 Florida Summit

When

2026-02-26 - 2026-02-27

Choose Your Calendar

    Where

    JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa Will open in a new window 14900 Chelonia Pkwy Orlando, FL 32821 United States
    Connect with the breadth of Florida's land use and real estate development industry at the annual ULI Florida Summit.

    Pricing

    Pricing Members Non-Members
    Private $575.00 $750.00
    Public/Academic/Nonprofit $375.00 $550.00
    Retired $575.00 N/A
    Student $245.00 $350.00
    Under Age 35 $375.00 $750.00

    Onsite registration will be available at the Florida Summit registration desk beginning at 7:00am on Thursday, February 26th. Onsite registration fees include an additional $50 charge.

    Agenda

    Times displayed in 

    2026-02-26T07:00:00 - 2026-02-26T11:30:00
    America/New_York
    Florida Product Council (FPC) Meetings - Invite Only
    2026-02-26T07:15:00 - 2026-02-26T11:30:00
    America/New_York
    Mobile Tours
    2026-02-26T07:30:00 - 2026-02-26T11:30:00
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    Mobile Tour 1: Winter Garden’s Plant Street Transformed: Then, Now & Next
    2026-02-26T08:00:00 - 2026-02-26T11:15:00
    America/New_York
    Mobile Tour 2: Discover Orlando’s Creative Village: A Bold Vision for Urban Innovation
    2026-02-26T08:15:00 - 2026-02-26T11:30:00
    America/New_York
    Mobile Tour 3: Evermore Orlando Resort: Innovation and Disruption in the Hospitality Segment
    2026-02-26T09:00:00 - 2026-02-26T10:30:00
    America/New_York
    Public Leader Exchange – Creating Value Through Main Streets
    2026-02-26T10:30:00 - 2026-02-26T11:30:00
    America/New_York
    Real Estate Roundtables: Network & Navigate Hot Topics
    2026-02-26T11:30:00 - 2026-02-26T12:30:00
    America/New_York
    Lunch
    2026-02-26T12:45:00 - 2026-02-26T13:05:00
    America/New_York
    Opening Session: Public Policy Solutions to Affordable Housing
    2026-02-26T13:05:00 - 2026-02-26T14:10:00
    America/New_York
    Florida’s Economic Outlook & Capital Markets Landscape
    2026-02-26T14:10:00 - 2026-02-26T14:30:00
    America/New_York
    Weathering the Storm: Navigating the Complexities of Insurance Costs
    2026-02-26T14:30:00 - 2026-02-26T15:25:00
    America/New_York
    Innovations in Master-Planned Communities
    2026-02-26T15:25:00 - 2026-02-26T16:40:00
    America/New_York
    Florida’s Legislative Updates: Real Estate Industry Impacts
    2026-02-26T16:40:00 - 2026-02-26T17:00:00
    America/New_York
    YIMBY Movement:  Moving Projects and Community Goals Forward in FL
    2026-02-26T17:00:00 - 2026-02-26T18:00:00
    America/New_York
    General Reception
    2026-02-27T08:00:00 - 2026-02-27T09:00:00
    America/New_York
    Networking Breakfast
    2026-02-27T09:10:00 - 2026-02-27T10:25:00
    America/New_York
    Game-Changing Projects in Central Florida
    2026-02-27T10:25:00 - 2026-02-27T11:10:00
    America/New_York
    Trends Across Asset Classes (Insights from the Florida Product Councils)
    2026-02-27T11:10:00 - 2026-02-27T12:00:00
    America/New_York
    Closing Keynote: The Way We Will Live - What’s Next
    2026-02-27T12:00:00 - 2026-02-27T12:30:00
    America/New_York
    Adjourn

    The ULI Florida Summit attracts hundreds of decision makers from across Florida and beyond, bringing together and connecting real estate professionals including developers, attorneys, engineers, architects, and land use planners, from both the private and public sector.

     

    From keynote addresses to conference sessions, the annual Florida Summit focuses on today’s changing markets, trends, and opportunities, and features insights from leading industry professionals.

    JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa 14900 Chelonia Pkwy Orlando, FL 32821 United States

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    Speakers

    Speaker

    Chris Kelly

    Co-Founder & General Partner, Stackpoint

    Chris Kelly is a serial entrepreneur and Co-Founding General Partner at Stackpoint, a venture studio that conceives, funds, and builds agentic AI companies in real estate, financial services, and other complex, high-barrier industries. Chris and his co-founder, Adam Pase, have created over $2 billion in equity value across multiple ventures, bringing deep operational experience to every stage of company building. Prior to Stackpoint, Chris co-founded Convene, a workplace hospitality platform with 40 locations in 9 cities across the U.S. and U.K., and EvoJets, a private jet charter brokerage that has completed missions in over 30 countries. His companies have generated over $2 billion in revenue, employed over 1,000 people, and serviced more than half of the Fortune 500. Chris is known for his hands-on approach to supporting founders, providing them with strategic guidance, trusted counsel on high-stakes decisions, and access to critical resources, customers, and capital partners. His contributions to entrepreneurship have earned him recognition as a two-time Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year® nominee, CoreNet Global Young Leader of the Year, and a Top Entrepreneur by Crain’s New York Business. He has also been named twice to Inc. Magazine’s “30 Under 30” list of Most Promising Young Entrepreneurs.

    Speaker

    Katy Magruder

    Dix.Hite + Partners, Inc.

    Katy is a powerhouse urban planner with ten years of impactful public service shaping the city she proudly calls home. Her expertise lies in infill and redevelopment strategies, placemaking initiatives, master planning, specialized plans and overlays, and drafting land development code. Katy brings a clear understanding of how regulations impact developers and is skilled at balancing private development needs with public priorities. Building on her private sector experience, Katy recently co-launched the planning studio at Dix.Hite + Partners creating a platform for visionary planning and design integration.

    Speaker

    Zack Justice

    COO, Unicorp National Development

    Zack joined Unicorp in early 2020 as a Development Manager and now serves as Chief Operating Officer. In this role, he oversees the company’s core operational functions and is instrumental in driving execution, improving efficiency, and supporting the company’s continued growth. With a strong foundation in development, construction, and project funding, Zack brings a strategic and hands-on approach to managing Unicorp’s expanding portfolio.  Over the past 5 years, Zack has been at the forefront of project development for The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort and Residences, as well as multiple multi-family and mixed-use developments in the state of Florida. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Richmond with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, concentrating in Finance. While at Richmond, Zack was a student-athlete on the Division I golf team, competing in the Atlantic 10 Conference—a testament to his discipline, leadership, and competitive drive.

    Speaker

    Chris Ritter

    PCL Construction

    Chris Ritter leads PCL Construction’s Orlando office as district manager, bringing more than 25 years of experience delivering complex, high-profile projects across the hospitality, entertainment, sports, higher education and aviation sectors. He is recognized for his client-focused approach and collaborative leadership style, with deep expertise in navigating complex project delivery in fast-paced, high-demand environments. Chris began his career with PCL in 2000 as a field engineer in Orlando, contributing to major projects for high‑profile clients. Over the course of his career, he has served in a variety of operational and leadership roles with the company, gaining experience across multiple markets and project types. This progression has provided him with a broad perspective on construction operations and a strong track record of successfully managing large, complex projects. As district manager, Chris oversees strategic planning, operational performance and client relationships for PCL’s Orlando office. His leadership approach is shaped by hands-on field experience and a commitment to collaboration, innovation and long-term partnerships that support both client objectives and community development. Chris holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Building Science from Auburn University. He is a LEED Accredited Professional and a Design Build Institute of America Associate. He is actively involved in the community, supporting organizations such as United Way, Habitat for Humanity and Canine Companions. He also participates in industry organizations including Orlando Economic Partnership, ABC and NAMC of Central Florida, contributing to the continued growth and advancement of the region’s construction industry.

    Speaker

    Kendra Barry

    Integra Realty Resources, Inc.

    Kendra Barry is the Senior Managing Director for Integra Realty Resources Tampa Bay and has more than 25 years of commercial real estate and appraisal experience. Along with commercial real estate valuations, her experience includes the management of professional office buildings, strip centers and multi-tenant complexes, as well as portfolio management for commercial real estate investors. She has performed commercial real estate valuations on numerous property types in Florida, the Tampa Bay area and its surrounding counties including, but not limited to: medical facilities; professional office buildings; single and multi-tenant industrial buildings; retail facilities; high rise condominium projects; residential neighborhoods; commercial buildings; warehouses; religious facilities; fast food restaurants; funeral homes; apartment buildings; ambulatory surgery centers; assisted living facilities; veterinary clinics, pet resorts and pet kennels; and vacant land for numerous uses. She has also conducted valuations and market studies on proposed structures, under construction properties, renovated properties and existing structures. Kendra specializes in special use properties including churches, funeral homes, and educational facilities, with particular expertise in educational properties; specifically charter schools, colleges and universities and daycare facilities. She has appraised more than 75 educational properties across the southeastern United States, with considerable experience in Florida. Practice also includes a specialization in manufactured home (MH) and recreational vehicle (RV) communities, including Class A motor coach resorts and 55+ (senior) communities. Kendra has appraised more than 75 MH/RV communities throughout the state of Florida and is one of a limited number of MH/RV community appraisers in the state.

    Speaker

    Rob Holmes

    Sr. Vice President of Operations, Tavistock Development Company

    Robert Holmes is senior vice president of operations at Tavistock Development Company, where he oversees planning, entitlements, infrastructure, and construction management across a diverse portfolio of multifamily residential, mixed-use, commercial and hospitality projects. With more than 30 years of experience, Robert is known for his innovative approach to developing master-planned communities and transforming complex and underutilized properties into vibrant, multifunctional places, including major waterfront redevelopments. He has extensive experience in land sales, urban planning, development and financial analysis. His projects have been concentrated throughout Orlando, South Florida and the Northeast.

    Keynote Speaker

    Greg Lindsay

    Futurist & Urbanist,

    Greg Lindsay is a generalist, urbanist, futurist, and speaker. He is a 2022-2023 urban tech fellow at Cornell Tech’s Jacobs Institute, where he leads The Metaverse Metropolis, exploring augmented reality at urban scale. He is also a senior fellow of MIT’s Future Urban Collectives Lab, a senior advisor to Climate Alpha, and a non-resident senior fellow of the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Strategy Initiative. He’s been cited as an expert on the future of cities, technology, and mobility by The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, USA Today, CNN, NPR, and the BBC. He’s a partner at the advisory firm FutureMap, and has advised Intel, Samsung, IKEA, Starbucks, Audi, Hyundai, Tishman Speyer, British Land, André Balazs Properties, Aldar, Emaar, and Expo 2020, along with numerous G20 government entities. He was previously the urbanist-in-residence at URBAN-X — BMW MINI’s urban tech accelerator — the director of applied research at NewCities, and founding director of strategy at its mobility-focused offshoot CoMotion. Greg speaks frequently about cities, mobility, innovation, and globalization, including appearances at 10 Downing Street, the United States Military Academy, Sandia National Laboratories, the OECD, Harvard Business School, the MIT Media Lab, and the Aspen Ideas Festival. His work with Studio Gang Architects on the future of suburbia was displayed at New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in 2012. His work has also been displayed at the 15th, 16th, and 17th Venice Architecture Biennales, the International Architecture Biennale Rotterdam, and Habitat III. He sits on the board of CREtech Climate, and was guest curator of the 2018 and 2019 editions of reSITE. He was previously a contributing writer for Fast Company and Fortune, and an editor-at-large for Advertising Age. He is co-author of the 2011 critically acclaimed international bestseller Aerotropolis: The Way We’ll Live Next. His writing has also appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, Harvard Business Review, The Financial Times, McKinsey Quarterly, Time, Wired, The Atlantic, The New Republic, New York, Slate, Quartz, Inc., Politico, The Economist Group, The World Economic Forum, The Nikkei Asian Review, World Policy Journal, Next City, Marie Claire Italia, Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, and Departures. Greg is a two-time Jeopardy! champion (and the only human to go undefeated against IBM’s Watson).

    Speaker

    Adam Wonus

    Partner, Atrium Management Company

    Adam Wonus is a Partner at Atrium Management Company, where he brings his experience in real estate finance and capital markets to lead a growing property management and development platform. With a background that includes working with industry leaders such as Wells Fargo Bank and CBRE Capital Markets, Adam has focused on building strong relationships with clients and industry partners and utilizing his expertise to help them achieve their goals. Adam began his career in banking, having formerly worked with Wells Fargo Bank and CBRE Capital Markets. During this time he was focused on financing commercial real estate as well as structured and financed business acquisitions for businesses all over the nation. His efforts earned him state-wide and national recognition for loan volume. He also developed a passion for franchised concepts and in 2008 Adam purchased his first franchise. He quickly grew a niche, membership-model barbershop concept to several locations and increased revenues enough to provide a profitable exit strategy for his investors within four years. In 2014 Adam purchased Atrium Management Company, in which he saw near limitless potential. Atrium currently manages over 5 million square feet of property across three states and has a growing development pipeline set to deliver millions of square feet of multifamily and commercial space. The company has received “Best Places to Work” honors from the Orlando Business Journal multiple consecutive years, and Adam has received its “Community Impact Award” in addition to being named to “Orlando’s 40 Under 40” and “Fast 50” lists. With a deep understanding of the industry and a commitment to excellence, Adam continues to leverage his skills and experience to help clients succeed in the ever-changing world of real estate.

    Speaker

    Michael Shadeed

    Managing Director, Franklin Street

    Michael Shadeed is Managing Director of Franklin Street’s Insurance Services National Accounts Team, specializing in large CRE owners and developers nationwide. With a focus on the multifamily sector, Michael spearheads new business development, client retention, and strategic relationships for sophisticated accounts, ensuring high-level execution in the marketplace and with client needs. Through Franklin Street’s Insurance 360 platform, Shadeed provides clients with a robust data set for risk management and commercial real estate modeling. As the insurance landscape evolves, his approach emphasizes data-driven risk management, construction design analysis, and loss control initiatives, delivering measurable results for his clients. A recognized thought leader in the CRE and risk management sectors, Shadeed has spoken at leading industry forums, including ULI, NMHC, Bisnow, and Interface, and is a regular contributor to top-tier publications covering CRE trends and insurance solutions.

    Moderator

    Kyle Shephard

    Director of Intergovernmental Relations, City of Orlando

    Kyle currently serves as Director of Intergovernmental Relations for Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. In this position he represents the City of Orlando with regional interlocal partners, the Florida legislative and executive branches of government, federal agencies, and Congress. He also serves as the City’s liaison with intergovernmental organizations such as the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the National League of Cities, and the Florida League of Cities. Kyle has been with the City of Orlando for over 19 years. He was previously Assistant City Attorney and then as Chief Assistant City Attorney he led the City’s Economic Development legal team. Kyle has extensive experience in land use law and represented the City’s Municipal Planning Board and other land development boards for many years. He is also an advisor to Mayor Dyer in the Mayor’s capacity as board member on several regional transportation governing bodies including the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, the Central Florida Expressway Authority, the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority, the Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission, and MetroPlan Orlando. Kyle is a Past President of the Florida Municipal Attorneys Association, immediate-Past President of the Florida Association of Intergovernmental Relations, serves on the National League of Cities Federal Advocacy Committee for Finance, Administration and Intergovernmental Relations, and is a longtime member of the Florida League of Cities Transportation and Intergovernmental Relations Legislative Policy Committee.

    Speaker

    Craig Collin

    President & COO, Tavistock Development Company

    Craig Collin, president and COO of Tavistock Development Company, oversees the strategic execution of a nationally recognized portfolio of award-winning, visionary communities known for innovation, creative placemaking and long-term value. His work includes guiding the growth of Lake Nona, one of the fastest-growing communities in the U.S., and Sunbridge, a “naturehood” celebrated for its ecological stewardship. In addition to developing these master-planned communities, Craig leads the acquisition and operation of hotels and other commercial assets across the U.S. and contributes to Tavistock’s global business initiatives. He also led the transformation of Pier Sixty-Six in Fort Lauderdale, reimagining the iconic waterfront destination with luxury hospitality, new residential offerings and a world-class marina. Whether guiding high-growth districts, sustainability-driven communities or legacy landmarks, Craig brings a thoughtful, strategically grounded approach to everything he leads. Previously, Craig held senior leadership roles at a large publicly traded residential development company in the Northeast, where he navigated multiple markets and led the successful delivery of more than 25,000 homes across 1,000-plus communities. This scale continues to inform his operational perspective and development philosophy. Craig serves on executive boards for organizations supporting arts, culture and community development. He is actively engaged with industry councils at the local, state and national levels, and sits on company boards in both an advisory role and fiduciary capacity. At his core, Craig believes in leadership rooted in trust and transparency. He empowers his teams to lead, collaborate and deliver with purpose, an approach that shapes both the places Tavistock builds and the people behind them.

    Speaker

    Laura Cole

    Senior Vice President, Lakewood Ranch

    Laura leads the residential and lifestyle arm of Lakewood Ranch, the nation’s best-selling multi-generational community in the U.S. since 2018. Located in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Lakewood Ranch has over 49,000 residential units, 6 million square feet of non-residential mixed-use space, two office parks, a medical center, four hotels, and six grocery anchored shopping centers. Laura oversees a portfolio of 16,000+ lots under active development by 20 builders, manages Main Street and Waterside Place, and is chief marketing officer for various operating companies--including the Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club and LWR Commercial. Laura serves as Chair of Mission Advancement for ULI Tampa Bay and is a member of ULIs Community Development Council Gold. She is Treasurer of the Association of Florida Community Developers.

    Speaker

    Jason Reynolds

    Deputy Director, PEDS Department, Orange County Government, Florida

    Jason Reynolds is a purpose-driven public administrator with more than 18 years of experience advancing economic development and fostering healthy, prosperous, and sustainable communities. He serves as a Deputy Director in Orange County Government’s Planning, Environmental, and Development Services Department, providing strategic and operational leadership for the Housing and Community Development, Neighborhood Services, and Building Safety Divisions. Jason holds a master’s degree in urban and regional planning from the University of Florida and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. He is actively engaged in the community through board service with the Primrose Center and the Blankner School Foundation.

    Speaker

    Omar Morales

    Director, Berkadia

    Omar Morales is an Associate at Berkadia, where he focuses on sourcing and financing both land and multifamily investment opportunities throughout Miami, Broward, and Palm Beach county, predominantly for institutional investors. Omar has been involved in over $500 million dollars worth of multifamily transactions in South Florida since 2017. Prior to joining Berkadia, he worked as a Senior Investment Analyst at Walker & Dunlop.

    Speaker

    Curt Ostrodka

    Director of Smart Communities, VHB

    As Director of Smart Communities at VHB, Curt is a future-focused leader managing collaborative teams that address complex community and mobility planning issues, including future-ready smart cities, advanced air mobility, sustainable community development, and healthy community design. He is a Principal at VHB, and leads the company's efforts for electrified mobility, broadband equity and access, and other smart city strategic planning services for the entire firm footprint. With 20 years of urban and environmental planning experience, he focuses on using technology and innovation to make our communities more sustainable, resilient, and equitable. Curt currently serves as District Council Chair for the ULI Central Florida, one of the fastest growing regions of the country. He earned a Master of Urban and Environmental Planning degree from the University of Virginia and a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences with Honors from the University of Illinois. Urban Land Industry Voices: https://urbanland.uli.org/curt-ostrodka

    Speaker

    Jillian Bandes

    Owner & President, Bandes Construction

    Jillian manages commercial projects for healthcare, retail, multifamily and municipal clients. She specializes in preconstruction, bringing value to the startup process for new developments and renovations. Jillian grew up in Pinellas County and has lived in St. Petersburg since 2015. She is the founder and president of YIMBY St. Pete, an advocacy organization dedicated to passing zoning reforms that promote equitable housing and transportation policies. State of Florida Certified Contractor ULI Tampa Bay Executive Board Founder & President, YIMBY St. Pete Member, State Housing Initiatives / Affordable Housing Action Committee (SHIP-AHAC), St. Petersburg City Council

    Speaker

    Alexis Crespo

    Vice President, RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture

    As Vice President of Planning, Alexis oversees the company's planning efforts across six (6) offices in Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando and Coral Springs. Alexis is a certified land use planner with the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) with over 20 years of professional planning experience in Southwest Florida.   Alexis implements entitlement strategies for complex private developments for a diverse range of clientele, including rezoning and comprehensive plan amendments, sector plans and community facilitation and visioning. Alexis also regularly assists in policy formulation/comprehensive plan updates, land development code updates and litigation support/expert witness testimony for local governments across the state.

    Speaker

    Brian Goguen

    Chief Investment Officer, Barron Collier Companies

    Brian has been a Member of the Urban Land Institute since 2002. He served as the Chair of the ULI SW Florida Regional Council from 2008 - 2010. He also served as the Chair of the ULI Florida Community Housing Development Council (CHDC) from 2022 - 2024. He is a member of the ULI Community Development Product Council (CDC Black). He is the Chief Investment Officer for the Barron Collier Companies; a family-owned business located in Naples, Florida that owns approximately 65,000 acres of land. Over the past 29 years he has been involved in numerous commercial, office, mixed use, multifamily and residential projects including Ave Maria (a Top 20 Selling MPC). In addition to Brian's involvement in the ULI, he is a graduate of Leadership Collier and Leadership Florida. Previous to joining the Barron Collier Companies, Brian was a Manager with Ernst & Young, where he served a number of Real Estate clients. He received his undergraduate degree in Management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

    Speaker

    Jorge Garcia

    CEO, garciastromberg

    Jorge H. Garcia, A.I.A., N.C.A.R.B is currently Chief Executive Officer of Garcia Stromberg, an architectural firm founded in 1987. He is a registered Florida Architect and An honor graduate of the University of Miami, Jorge is the driving force behind the firm’s growth and development since 1987. Prior experience includes earning a reputation with highly acclaimed architectural as well as land development firms, where he grew to understand the importance of leadership within an organization, the community and the unique ability of integrating innovative architecture with rational business criteria in a balanced format. Jorge’s primary focuses are corporate leadership, design, vision, collaboration and growth development for the firm’s philosophical ideals. Jorge is a licensed architect in thirteen states with expertise in the design of national and international facilities including hotel & resorts, commercial, institutional, mixed-use developments and residential, projects. He is a sought after authority on the realities and challenges clients face in the planning, approval and entitlement processes found in today’s challenging development environment.

    Speaker

    Ken Naylor

    President of Development, Atlantic | Pacific Companies

    Kenneth Naylor, a LEED Accredited Professional, oversees the strategy and operations of Atlantic | Pacific Communities. Mr. Naylor has authored urban planning articles for a variety of regional and national publications, and serves one of the nation’s most challenged affordable housing markets – the Florida Keys – in his role as a member of the Monroe County Commission’s Affordable Housing Advisory Committee. In 2011 he was named one of the four “Young Leaders” in the industry by Affordable Housing Finance magazine, and he was named Multifamily Executive magazine’s Rising Star of the Year. Prior to joining the team in 2003, he worked throughout the Southeast with Hunter Properties, Inc. on office, residential, and corporate data center developments. He graduated with Honors from the University of Miami.

    Speaker

    Pedro Gassant

    Partner, Holland & Knight, LLP

    Pedro Gassant is a partner in Holland & Knight's Miami office and a member of the Real Estate Section, as well as a regional co-chair of the firm's national Land Use and Government Team. Mr. Gassant practices in the areas of governmental advocacy and land use, focusing on land use and zoning matters in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. He represents lenders, builders, family offices, developers and institutional owners in all aspects of land use law through the entire development process. Mr. Gassant has extensive experience guiding clients through both entitlements and tax abatements under the Live Local initiative. He has been successful in obtaining approvals for Live Local projects in Orlando, Florida, and has provided assistance in Riviera Beach, Florida. His knowledge extends across the state of Florida, where he aids clients with the tax abatement under Live Local process to enhance the feasibility and affordability of their developments.

    Speaker

    Craig Ustler

    President, Ustler Development, Inc.

    Craig Ustler, MAI, CCIM is the Owner and President of Ustler Development, Inc., a real estate development company, and President of Ustler Properties, Inc., a commercial real estate brokerage company. Ustler is an owner, investor, developer and broker of various property types including multifamily residential, student housing, hotel, office, restaurant, retail and mixed-use. He has extensive experience in land sales, urban planning and highest and best use analysis. For over twenty-five years, Ustler has focused on urban infill projects as advocated by the “new urbanism” planning movement. In particular, projects have been concentrated in Downtown Orlando neighborhoods including Creative Village, Health Village, North Quarter, Thornton Park and the Central Business District.

    Speaker

    Jerry Demings

    Mayor, Orange County Government, Florida

    Mayor Jerry L. Demings is a native of Orlando. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Florida State University and his Master of Business Administration degree from Orlando College, now Everest University. He served as Orlando’s first African American Police Chief and first African American Orange County Director of Public Safety. In 2008, he was elected the first African American Sheriff and Constitutional Officer in the history of Orange County and was re-elected in 2012 and 2016. On August 28, 2018, Mayor Demings was elected the first African American Mayor of Orange County and was sworn in as Mayor on December 4, 2018. He is the chief executive for over 8,000 county employees with a budget of $5.4 billion.

    Speaker

    Jill Roberts

    Principal, Atrium Management Company

    As Principal of Atrium Commercial, Jill brings extensive expertise and strategic market insight across multiple sectors of commercial real estate, including residential, retail, office, medical land sales, entitlements, new development, urban redevelopment, and government projects. Her focus spans Orange, Osceola, Polk, Brevard, Volusia, and Seminole Counties, where she provides tailored real estate solutions to a diverse regional and national client network. With a deep understanding of commercial real estate transaction structures and processes, Jill effectively navigates complex deals, leveraging her industry knowledge and a well-established network of relationships at both local and national levels. Since 2002, Jill has been involved in sale and lease transactions exceeding $800 million. She holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Central Florida and is a Florida Licensed Real Estate Sales Associate. Additionally, she has played a key role in shaping Orlando’s urban landscape, serving as Chair of the City of Orlando Appearance Review Board and continuing as a board member. Her past appointments include the City of Orlando Municipal Planning Board and a Governor-appointed position on the Regional Planning Council, District 6. Notable Transactions Fashion Square Mall – 50-acre urban in-fill redevelopment, $25M Tourist Corridor Land Sales – $200M Tucker Master Plan – $36.5M Mills Park Fresh Market Redevelopment Notable Assignments Osceola County School Board – Acquisition & Disposition Orlando Utility Commission – Historic Ivanhoe Building City of Orlando – Acquisition & Disposition Nassal Redevelopment Parcel – Disposition Awards & Recognition CoStar Power Broker Top Women in Commercial Real Estate Orlando Business Journal Top 40 Under 40 Globe Street Woman of Real Estate 2023

    Speaker

    Michelle Heatherly

    Director of Business Development, 10 Design

    Michelle Heatherly is an award-winning professional with over 20 years of experience working throughout Florida in front end horizontal development, leasing/brokerage, property management, operations, development services, community engagement, public + government relations, marketing and business development - spanning across multiple market sectors including large scale urban mixed-use (vertically & horizontally integrated), multifamily, student housing, hospitality, commercial, office and retail projects. Michelle’s market knowledge, unique background on the client side as a developer, and work with the public sector make her a valuable asset and liaison between consulting teams in the AEC industry and their development clients.

    Speaker

    Emi Adachi

    Managing Director, Co-Head of Global Investment Research, Heitman

    Emi Adachi is a Managing Director and Co-Head of Global Research at Heitman. She is an equity owner of the firm. Emi leads the North American and Asia Pacific research teams, overseeing strategy development and underwriting for all private equity and debt investments. Emi also manages ongoing research support for Heitman's portfolio, including sitting on the firm’s Valuation Committee. Additionally, Emi analyzes demographic and technological trends and their impact on real estate investment strategy and portfolio construction. Emi is a co-founder and Board Member of People of Color & Allies (POCA), one of Heitman’s employee resource networks. Previously, Emi was the Director of North American Investment Research and Co-Head of Global Research Operations. Emi received a BA with honors in Urban Studies from Stanford University. She is a member of the Urban Land Institute Global Exchange Council, Stanford Alumni Real Estate Council, the NAIOP Chicago Board, and the Lambda Alpha International Ely Chapter.

    Speaker

    Adriannis Suarez

    Director of Land Acquisition, Birdsong Housing Partners

    I am the Director of Land Acquisition at Birdsong Housing Partners. Birdsong is a team with successful experience in developing and constructing affordable housing communities of significant size and complexity. This experience spans the affordable housing industry and includes housing for low-income families and seniors, housing with supportive services for households at risk of homelessness, housing for Farmworkers and their families, housing for Persons with Special Needs, and HUD-supported properties. I possess a professional engineering license in the State of Florida and a bachelor of science degree in Civil Engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. My background and area of expertise is Land Development with 9+ years of experience in Civil Engineering. My experience includes single-family and multi-family residential subdivisions, commercial development, and institutional projects as large as 600-acre developments and 3,000 residential units. Responsible for project management, plan production, stormwater design, and utility design, along with obtaining permits at the local, state, and federal levels. My objectives are to grow my network of professional colleagues and partner with other developers to include the much-needed affordable housing component into deals and master developments in a way that incentivizes and supports the project, community, and market.

    Speaker

    Matt Levinson

    COO, O'Connell & Goldberg PR

    Matt Levinson is a seasoned public relations strategist and one of Florida’s leading experts in retail real estate and public affairs communications. Since joining O&G in 2000, he has advised an array of prominent developers and landmark projects, helping clients navigate complex challenges and shape narratives that earn trust, build community support and advance business goals. For two decades, Matt led the PR strategy for Turnberry Retail, guiding openings of major shopping destinations in Las Vegas and South Florida and spearheading the transformation of Aventura Mall from a regional center into a globally recognized luxury destination. His work reflects a deep understanding of how communications, public policy and placemaking intersect to influence perception and drive success. Today, Matt heads O&G’s Public Affairs and Retail & Real Estate practice areas, with clients including Kimco Realty, Lincoln Road, GL Homes, Mattamy Homes Pier Sixty-Six Residences, Foundry Commercial and more. He leads a multidisciplinary team focused on developing strategic campaigns that elevate client brands, engage key stakeholders and strengthen community relationships. He also serves as Chair of the Urban Land Institute’s Florida Retail Development Council and previously taught as a lead instructor for the ICSC John T. Riordan School for Retail Real Estate Professionals.

    Speaker

    Anthony De Yurre

    Partner, Bilzin Sumberg

    Anthony De Yurre is a Partner in Bilzin Sumberg's Land Development & Government Relations Group. His practice exclusively focuses on the representation of real estate developers and investors in complex land use and zoning matters with a focus on transit oriented development, large scale mixed-use development, public private partnerships and multifamily workforce housing. As a native Miamian, Anthony recognizes the tremendous need for attainable housing throughout Florida and is heavily engaged in Live Local Act (SB102 and SB328) legislation, interpretation and application at both the state and local levels. Anthony is an adjunct professor of law at the University of Miami’s LL.M. in Real Property Development where he teaches “Problem Solving Large Scale, Mixed-Use Development”. He is also Co-Chair of the University of Miami’s Real Property Development LL.M Advisory Board. Upon graduating from Duke University and Vanderbilt Law, Anthony returned home to Miami to earn his LL.M. in Real Property Development from the same program he teaches at today at the University of Miami. Anthony is also fluent in Spanish and Portuguese.

    Speaker

    Kristine Smale

    VP of Strategic Growth, Christopher Alan Homes

    Kristine is an experienced Residential and Commercial Real Estate professional. She is a Senior Vice President with Meyers Research and leads consulting projects throughout the Southeast and Florida. Prior to joining Meyers in 2019, Kristine managed projects with another national consulting firm for several years. Kristine also worked for two large home builders providing feasibility guidance for land acquisitions and community development. Her experience in commercial real estate includes asset management, due diligence and acquisitions with a large Real Estate Investment Trust, a 1031 exchange company and a publicly traded apartment REIT. Kristine has a BBA from the University of Iowa with majors in Finance and Marketing and a minor in English. She also earned a certificate in Urban Real Estate from the University of Illinois-Chicago. Kristine is currently the Chair of the ULI Community Housing and Development Council in Florida, as well as a member of the Southwest Florida Executive Committee and former chair of the Women’s Leadership Initiative. She is also a member of the RNDC-Gold National Product Council. Kristine serves on the Local Planning Agency for Lee County, Florida, a resident advisory board that works with the Board of County Commissioners.

    Speaker

    Michelle Adeeb

    CEO, Michelle Adeeb Consulting, LLC

    Michelle Adeeb is a seasoned business strategist, executive coach, and C-Suite consultant with over 20 years of experience in driving growth, building high-impact networks, and creating strategic opportunities across the architecture, design, construction, and real estate development sectors. As the founder of Michelle Adeeb Consulting, LLC, Michelle leverages her deep industry insight and an exclusive professional network of 20,000+ contacts to help companies accelerate business development, secure key relationships, and win new deals. She is known for her authentic approach to leadership and her ability to connect people, ideas, and opportunities that others may overlook. Michelle’s professional journey spans strategic consulting, marketing, sales leadership, and executive coaching, with a strong emphasis on mentoring and empowering professionals to achieve tangible results. She is also a thought leader and content creator with hundreds of posts and articles that reflect her passion for inspiring others, sharing practical insights, and fostering meaningful professional connections.

    Speaker

    Samia Singleton

    Community Redevelopment Agency Manager, City of Kissimmee

    Hi! I'm a Community Redevelopment Agency Manager for the City of Kissimmee, overseeing projects for both the Downtown Kissimmee Community Redevelopment Agency and Vine Street Community Redevelopment Agency, as well as in the City’s regionally designated Brownfields Area named the Kissimmee Environmental Redevelopment Area. I'm a Rochester, NY native and relocated to Florida over 7 years ago by way of Colorado after completing a two-year term as an Americorp VISTA for an economic development corporation. Before joining the City of Kissimmee, I was an Economic Development Specialist and Redevelopment Specialist for the City of Cocoa, FL. My diverse background ranges from journalism to corporate social responsibility in the oil and gas industry. I'm also a certified Florida Redevelopment Association Redevelopment Administrator (FRA-RA). I have a passion for developing local solutions that leave a lasting impact on communities.

    Speaker

    Mark Franceski

    Managing Director, Walker & Dunlop

    Mark Franceski is a managing director of research and securities at Zelman & Associates, based in Bethesda, Maryland. In his role, he is responsible for leading multifamily industry and REIT research for the firm. He has nearly 20 years' experience as a commercial real estate market research expert and data strategist specializing in the multifamily sector.   Prior to Zelman, Mr. Franceski served as executive director of multifamily analytics at global brokerage Avison Young and spent 10 years as head of research at Bozzuto, a national mixed-use investor, developer, builder, and operator, where he focused on market research, business intelligence, and data analytics. Mr. Franceski earned his bachelor's degree in economics from Washington and Lee University and his master's degree in business administration from George Mason University. Outside of the company, he serves as adjunct faculty for Georgetown University’s master’s in real estate program, teaching real estate market research and analysis. Mr. Franceski lives in Alexandria, Virginia, with his wife and four children.

    Speaker

    Pete Crane

    Development Partner, Sansone Group

    Pete Crane is a Sansone Group development partner and serves as the Regional Director of Development & Acquisitions focused on the southeast US.  With over two decades of Commercial Real Estate experience, Pete leads the company’s expansion throughout the southeast with an emphasis on Industrial Development.  Over his career Pete has specialized in everything from Leasing & Investment Sales as a broker to running Acquisitions & Dispositions as Vice President for south FL based companies Noble Properties & PEBB Enterprises who both operate nationally.  Since joining Sansone Group in 2019, he has leveraged his relationships and is responsible for sourcing over 8 million square feet of Class A Light Industrial developments, primarily in Florida & Texas.  Notable projects include Legacy Park at Tradition in Port St. Lucie, FL = 4 MSF, Austin Hills in Austin, TX = 1.35 MSF, BTS for UNFI in Sarasota, FL = 1 MSF, Spec Cold Storage in Tampa, FL and more.  Notable Tenants in these developments include Costco, FedEx, Amazon, Ferguson, Tesla, UNFI and more.  Pete is a graduate of the Florida State University Business School and now sits on the FSU Real Estate Center BoD.   He participates as an active member in NAIOP, CCIM, the EDC of Port St. Lucie BoD, the CDD Board in Port St. Lucie, CIASF, IAMC, and currently serves as the chair of the ULI FL Industrial Product Council. 

    Speaker

    Karl Pischke

    Principal, RCLCO

    Karl Pischke is a Principal based in RCLCO’s Orlando, Florida office. Since joining the firm in 2015, Karl has worked closely with a variety of clients in both the public and private sectors, and with a particular focus on Master-Planned Community (MPC) and large landowner clients throughout the Southeastern United States. As part of the firm’s real estate economics practice, he focuses on providing strategic guidance for clients pursuing development opportunities in urban and suburban infill sites, master-planned communities, mixed-use environments, resort communities, and rural locations. His expertise includes product and market segmentation strategies, market positioning and pricing evaluations, financial feasibility studies, highest and best use analyses, fiscal and economic impact studies, and market opportunity analyses for an extensive variety of residential and commercial land uses. Karl is a key contributor to The Advisory, RCLCO’s research and reporting publication, and helps lead the firm’s Top-Selling Master-Planned Community (MPC) Report initiative. As part of the authorship of this publication, Karl assists in monitoring over 200 Master-Planned Communities that the firm tracks on a semi-annual basis. Karl holds a Master of Science in Real Estate (MSRE) and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with a major in Finance from the University of Florida. His coursework focused primarily on real estate development, as well as the financial and market-driven concepts that impact real estate decision-making. Karl also serves on the board for the RCLCO Foundation.

    Speaker

    Tom Hoban

    President & CIO, Kitson & Partners

    Tom is President, Chief Investment Officer and Partner of Kitson & Partners. Tom has over 27 years of experience in the real estate industry, which includes a broad understanding of the capital markets. Tom helps set the strategic direction for K&P and spends the majority of his time focusing on growth initiatives for K&P, both through investment and capital sourcing. Tom is responsible for the company’s 1,500,000 square foot retail shopping center portfolio as well as its development pipeline of approximately 800,000 square feet of retail. Tom is also responsible for K&P’s Finance Division and Market Strategy team as well. Prior to joining the K&P team in 2003, Tom spent eight years in New York City as an investment banker at Morgan Stanley, where he served as Vice President of U.S. Acquisitions for the Morgan Stanley Real Estate Fund. During his career on Wall Street, Tom worked on both the agency and principal side of the real estate business, where he executed on over $8 billion of real estate transactions. Tom graduated cum laude from the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance. He is an Advisory Board member for the Fitzgerald Institute for Real Estate at the University of Notre Dame and also serves as a board member on the Economic Council of Palm Beach County. Tom is a long-time volunteer for the Palm Beach Gardens Youth Athletic Association, where he has served in a leadership capacity in the TOPSoccer program (focusing on children with developmental delays). Tom is also an active member in the Urban Land Institute and the International Council of Shopping Centers.

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