Opening Keynote: Building 1000M

Chicago's 73-story, 788-foot tall tower with 738 apartment units and 80,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenity spaces, including a rooftop observation deck

• 

  Francis Greenburger

  Francis Greenburger is the founder, chairman, chief executive officer and guiding force behind Time Equities, Inc. Founded in 1966, Time Equities, Inc. (TEI) has been in the real estate investment, development and asset & property management business for more than 50 years. TEI currently holds in its own portfolio approximately 32.4 million square feet of residential, industrial, office and retail property – including more than 4,000 multi-family apartment units. In addition, TEI is in various stages of development and pre-development of constructing approximately 1.4 million square feet of various property types which includes at least 1,447 residential units. With properties in 30 states, five Canadian provinces, Germany, the Netherlands, and Anguilla, the TEI portfolio benefits from a diversity of property types, sizes and markets. There are concentrations in the Northeast, Southwest, Midwest and West Coast, and new markets are always being evaluated. Mr. Greenburger is well known throughout the real estate industry for his ability to anticipate real estate trends and changing market conditions. TEI was a market leader in the cooperative conversion business in New York City, having converted over 100 buildings including over 10,000 units. More recently, TEI took the lead in the conversion of obsolete office buildings into residential apartments in New York’s Wall Street area. Building on our expertise in new residential construction and re-positioning, TEI is currently working on or has recently completed several development projects in Downtown Brooklyn, Manhattan, Long Island, Jersey City, NJ, Seattle, Washington, Chicago, Illinois and Toronto, Canada. Taking advantage of under-recognized opportunities has been the hallmark of the TEI strategy and a major component of its success. Mr. Greenburger also has a passion for the arts. He is the founder and principal benefactor of Omi International Arts Center, a 27 year-old not-for-profit arts colony and educational center which hosts residency programs for visual artists, writers, dancers, musicians, and architects from all over the world; as well as a renowned sculpture park which is open to the public on a 300-acre property in Ghent, New York just south of Albany. Mr. Greenburger himself is an art collector (his office is a virtual gallery) and he owns over 500 contemporary paintings and sculptures. He was awarded the insignia of chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters by the French government because of his commitment to the arts and his founding of the Omi International Arts Center. In addition, Mr. Greenburger is the Chairman of S.J. Greenburger Associates, Inc., a literary agency founded by his father 86 years ago, representing many world renowned and best selling authors including Dan Brown, Brad Thor, Daniel Amen, Patrick Rothfuss, Robin Preiss Glasser, and Rosemary Wells. Most recently, Mr. Greenburger founded the Greenburger Center for Social and Criminal Justice, which advocates for reforms to the criminal justice system, in 2014. In the capacity of the Founder and President of the organization, Mr. Greenburger serves as President of the Board of Directors, Chairman of the Executive Committee and is an Ex. Officio member of all other board committees. Mr. Greenburger guides the Center’s policy and advocacy efforts to ensure that the agency’s actions are in line with its mission, through weekly meetings with the Center’s Executive Director. He also reviews annual budgets, audits and financial statements and approves all expenditures over $1000. Mr. Greenburger is also a very active board member of several not-for-profit organizations: Alliance for Downtown New York, Baruch Real Estate Advisory Board for the Department of Real Estate, Lavigny Writer’s Residency, Lincoln Center – Real Estate and Construction Council, Little Red Schoolhouse/Elizabeth Irwin High School Board of Trustees, Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, MASS MoCA (contemporary art museum), Michael Wolk Heart Foundation, NYU Real Estate Institute Advisory Board, Omi International Arts Center, Inc., Sports and Arts In Schools Foundation, and the Zicklin School of Business Dean’s Council at Baruch College. Mr. Greenburger graduated from Baruch College in 1974 with a degree in Public Administration. In addition to real estate and the arts, Mr. Greenburger is an avid tennis player. He resides in Manhattan with his wife Isabelle Autones and children Morgan, Noah, Julia and Claire.

  Time Equities

  CEO

  Keynote

  Francis Greenburger

  CEO

  Time Equities

• 

  Evan Jahn

  Evan Jahn is a firm believer in the power of technical architecture to advance sustainability goals while enriching the experience of the built environment. With a collaborative approach, he has played a key role in more than thirty new construction projects across commercial, industrial, residential, and institutional sectors—each meeting or surpassing sustainability certification benchmarks. Evan brings deep expertise in virtual design and construction, paired with a strong command of early design decisions essential for aligning architectural expression with project performance and client vision. As president of Jahn, he integrates these experiences in evolving the studio to remain at the cutting of edge architecture.

  Jahn/

  President

  Moderator

  Evan Jahn

  President

  Jahn/

Lunch Keynote

• Keynote

  Ciere Boatright

  Commissioner

  City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development

• 

  Ryan Wangman

  Ryan Wangman is a Chicago-based commercial real estate reporter for Bisnow, where he covers topics such as property development, real estate market trends, and major deals within the industry. Before joining Bisnow in 2023, Ryan worked at Business Insider, where he specialized in personal finance reporting, with a focus on loans, debt management, and investment strategies. A graduate of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Ryan has previously contributed to the Boston Globe and served in various editorial roles at The Daily Northwestern. His journalistic interests include financial products, real estate development, and Chicago's dynamic property market.

  Bisnow

  Reporter

  Moderator

  Ryan Wangman

  Reporter

  Bisnow

The Matter of the Midwest

Exploring how Demographic Shifts, Social Trends, and Policy Frameworks Impact the Market

• 

  Roger Daniel

  Roger Daniel is the founder and President of Daniel Management Group, Inc. He is also President of DMG Leasing (dmgleasing.com), the leasing division of Daniel Management Group, Inc. In these capacities, Roger is responsible for the day-to-day management and leasing of a portfolio consisting of over 2,000 units around the broader Midwest. In 2021, Roger co-founded DMG Capital (dmgcapital.com), a real estate investment firm focused on sourcing, underwriting and structuring multifamily real estate transactions. Prior to creating Daniel Management Group, Inc., Roger held various positions in multifamily leasing, property management, acquisitions, and brokerage. Roger’s work history includes roles at The Habitat Company, Village Green Companies, Northwestern Mutual Real Estate and others. Roger earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, with honors, from the University of Wisconsin. He is a licensed Real Estate Managing Broker, a member of the Chicagoland Apartment Association, a member of EUBA, and a member of the Chicago Association of Realtors.

  Daniel Management Group

  Founder & President

  Roger Daniel

  Founder & President

  Daniel Management Group

• 

  Kristin Faust

  Kristin Faust was appointed Executive Director of the Illinois Housing Development Authority in 2019. In this role, she leads the Authority’s wide-ranging efforts to finance the creation and preservation of affordable housing throughout Illinois. Prior to joining IHDA, she held senior leadership positions in the public, private and nonprofit sectors for 30+ years, previously serving as President of Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, Chief Credit Officer at Partners for the Common Good, and President of the Enterprise Community Loan Fund. She earned a master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from Harvard University and a bachelor’s degree from Brown University.

  Illinois Housing Development Authority

  Executive Director

  Kristin Faust

  Executive Director

  Illinois Housing Development Authority

• 

  Frank Campise

  Frank is a lifelong Chicagoan with over 30 years experience acquiring, operating and selling multifamily residential properties. Frank facilitated over $995 million in transactions as a principal in Chicago, Salt Lake City, and Denver neighborhoods. After passing the CPA exam he went on to receive his MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management.

  JAB Real Estate

  Managing Principal

  Frank Campise

  Managing Principal

  JAB Real Estate

• 

  Alan Lev

  Alan D. Lev is the Chairman of Belgravia Group, Ltd., a Chicago based, and Phoenix area residential homebuilder specializing in townhome, condominium, and apartment developments. Belgravia has developed over 2,500 homes in Chicago as well as rental apartments and commercial projects, and three times recently was awarded Developer of the Year from Chicago Agent Magazine and Impact Award winner from Lincoln Park Builders of Chicago. He is also in the Homebuilders Association of Greater Chicago Court of Honor and the Merchandise Mart Hall of Fame. Alan joined Belgravia Group in 1989. Mr. Lev earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy in 1982 from the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign. He later obtained his J.D. from Loyola University of Chicago in 1985. During law school he worked in the tax department at Price Waterhouse. Mr. Lev practiced real estate law from 1985-1989 at Greenberger, Kraus and Jacobs and then Goldberg, Kohn, et al. He has been a CPA since 1982, an attorney since 1985, a licensed real estate broker since 1989, a licensed insurance broker since 2012, a licensed personal trainer since 2017 and a Registered Investment Advisor since 2020. Alan is a proud member of the Chicago Association of Realtors, is Past President of the Homebuilders Association of Greater Chicago, is Past Chairman of the Illinois Division of the American Cancer Society, a member of the Directors Loan Committee at First Bank Chicago and on the Advisory Board of TRO Investment Advisors, Blip Energy and Equilibrium Ventures. He has a strong attachment to the Chicago area and the University of Illinois and has been involved in many charitable and civic organizations and with the University of Illinois by guest lecturing in the business school, funding a scholarship, participating in the business school job shadow program, and serving on the Business Alumni Board and Dean’s Business Council.

  Belgravia Group

  Chairman

  Alan Lev

  Chairman

  Belgravia Group

• 

  Mike Obloy

  Principal

  Monroe Residential

• 

  Mark Kurgan

  Mark grew up in northwest suburban Wheeling, IL and has lived in Chicago for the past 15 years. His real estate career began at 33 Realty as a property manager for a 1500 unit portfolio. He helped grow the team from 3 property managers and 4 leasing agents to over 40 team members today. With his leadership, the team is now representing landlords throughout the Chicagoland area & has leased over 15,000 apartments. His team services owners and investors by focusing a talented broker on the task of achieving qualified and long term tenants. Noted for providing turnkey solutions to complex real estate assignments, His leasing team's integrated service offering model enables them to tap in-house resources to underwrite the operations of functioning assets as well as validate projections in construction, floor plan optimization, leasing, and management. Prior to working at 33, Mark spent 10 years in sales and management. Mark's market knowledge, responsiveness, integrity and people skills allow him to exceed in his role. When not at work he enjoys golfing, beach vacations, and endless walks with his dog.

  Evernest Multifamily

  Director of Leasing

  Mark Kurgan

  Director of Leasing

  Evernest Multifamily

• 

  Jim Milliken

  Jim has over 10 years of experience in leadership roles within private real estate development firms and property management companies. Jim is a highly regarded leader in the real estate industry in Chicago, and he brings significant experience to his role at CLA. His previous work with a rapidly growing developer has given him the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this position. With a background in both real estate development and property management, Jim is equipped to provide clients with the specialized industry expertise they need. Jim is proficient in CLA's CAAS (Client Accounting and Advisory Services) practice, where he helps clients to outsource and enhance their accounting functions. Working alongside a team of skilled accountants, he plays a key role in optimizing and managing a wide range of accounting and finance functions for clients. Drawing on best practices from a diverse client base, Jim is able to provide clients with valuable insights and guidance to help them achieve their financial goals. Through a specialized industry approach, CLA is among the nation’s leading professional services firm offering tax, assurance, consulting, digital, and wealth advisory.

  CLA

  Principal

  Moderator

  Jim Milliken

  Principal

  CLA

Brick by Brick

Designing, Developing, and Building Places to Call Home

• 

  Thomas Roszak

  Thomas Roszak has been involved in architectural design and construction for over 32 years. His work includes a wide range of building types, including commercial and institutional projects, with a special concentration on urban residential architecture, for which he personally has overseen the design, development, and construction of more than 5,500 units with a market value in excess of $3 billion. Mr. Roszak opened his first architecture, development, and construction office in 1997. Soon after, he established Thomas Roszak Architecture, a firm dedicated to creative, innovative, and environmentally effective design. His keen insight coupled with a unique design process allows him and his team to challenge preconceptions, resulting in innovative and technically advanced design solutions. Mr. Roszak also founded and currently leads the construction management company SteelGrass, an eco-design-build firm focused on new technology and sustainability. Architectural Digest named Mr. Roszak one of its “World’s Top 20 Architects” in 2005. He was featured in Philip Jodidio's ARCHITECTURE NOW!, no. 4, published by Taschen in 2006. In 2008, he received the American Institute of Architects’ prestigious National Honor Award. Recently, his Architecture was chosen by Modern Luxury Interiors to be the “Best Architecture Firm in 2017.” Thomas Roszak was elevated to a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects in 2020.

  Thomas Roszak Architecture

  Principal

  Thomas Roszak

  Principal

  Thomas Roszak Architecture

• 

  Brian Goldberg

  Brian is the founder and CEO of LG Group and has spent the last 17 years developing over $2 billion in high-end residential and commercial projects. His expertise has grown to include a multitude of project types over several different asset classes, consistently focusing on high design and cutting-edge technology. His relentless pursuit of the highest level of quality and service has led LG to become a top tier, vertically integrated platform that today includes development, construction, asset management, leasing, and interior design. Brian is most proud of LG’s work with several local hiring programs in the community to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Brian is also involved in several local charities benefiting Chicago’s disadvantaged youth (Camp Out for Kids), homeless (Back on My Feet) veterans (Herban Produce), and various mental health (Pariah Foundation & Tourette Association of America) as well as the YWCA and JUF. Brian graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign with a Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science in General Engineering, as well as an MBA. Brian lives in Lincoln Park with his beloved wife of 14 years, two incredible daughters, and two mischievous dogs. In his spare time, Brian loves to stay active with golf, tennis, and fishing.

  LG Group

  Founder and CEO

  Brian Goldberg

  Founder and CEO

  LG Group

• 

  Meg Prendergast

  Meg Prendergast brings decades of design experience to her luxury and lifestyle design projects, with a focus towards hospitality, and experiential commercial spaces. She has a unique capacity to partner with clients on a broad spectrum of services, with a firm belief that research, a deep dive into any project’s brand DNA insures a more meaningful design solution and connection with the ultimate user. Meg is an expert in the development and delivery of luxury level design environments. Her luxury focused portfolio includes destination resorts, boutique lifestyle hotels, multi‑family residences, clubhouses and private residential projects, with hundreds of commissions ranging from new construction to full historic repositioning for prominent hotel companies, developers, and private clients. She is a frequent speaker at design and business events, design jurist, and guest lecturer to emerging professionals in the design field.

  Soucie Horner Design Collective

  Director

  Meg Prendergast

  Director

  Soucie Horner Design Collective

• 

  Joe Pecoraro

  Joe Pecoraro is a project executive at Skender, one of the nation’s largest multifamily building contractors. He has 17 years of multi-unit residential construction experience, including numerous affordable housing and senior living projects. Joe is a recognized industry leader in Lean construction, working closely with developers to ensure the most efficient, value-optimized project delivery possible.

  Skender

  Project Executive

  Joe Pecoraro

  Project Executive

  Skender

• 

  Trina Sandschafer

  Trina Sandschafer, AIA, is an architect, design strategist, and executive based in Chicago. She is the Vice President and Managing Director, Chicago at Project Management Advisors, leading the Chicago and Midwest markets. A sought-after expert, Trina provides high-level advisory to growing and evolving organizations. She navigates the intersection of design and strategy to propel projects forward. Her business acumen and strategic planning foster the growth of individuals, teams, and organizations. Trina is committed to the transformative power of design and excels in bringing clarity to complex challenges. A seasoned critical thinker, she prioritizes user-centric approaches that yield insightful analyses and compelling results. She is well known for her adeptness in fostering strong, collaborative relationships.

  Project Management Advisors

  Managing Director

  Trina Sandschafer

  Managing Director

  Project Management Advisors

• 

  George Sorich

  George Sorich is a Registered Architect with more than 30 years of professional experience in mixed-use, multi-residential design. He is an accomplished leader of multidisciplinary teams across North America and the UK. George has an innate ability to identify emerging housing trends and translates that knowledge to early-stage designs enabling clients, owners and investors to capitalize on ROI. As leader of the Residential sector at NORR, George has identified three key trends that have staying power for the foreseeable future. These trends include work-from-home spaces, adaptive reuse opportunities and integrated development strategies. His focus is finding value and incentives in office-to-residential and office-to-hotel conversions with a greater vision of urban regeneration to attract capital to downtown cores through land and asset redevelopment.

  NORR

  Vice President, Residential

  Moderator

  George Sorich

  Vice President, Residential

  NORR

Creating the Optimal Resident Experience

What tools are owners, operators, and property managers deploying to create the optimal lifestyle for their tenants?

• 

  Alison Mills

  VP

  CRG

• 

  Laurie Schultz

  Laurie Schultz is principal and co-founder of real estate development, construction and investment firm Avenue -- and also of Viva Bene, the nation’s first age-restricted multifamily community combining preventive healthcare with housing. She has developed projects in market-rate apartments, senior housing, post-acute rehabilitation and medical ambulatory care exceeding $1.5 billion in value.

  Avenue

  Principal

  Laurie Schultz

  Principal

  Avenue

• 

  Ariana Rasansky

  Ariana brings over 12 years of experience in the multifamily industry. Prior to joining JLL, Ariana served as SVP, Head of Residential Management for The John Buck Company (JBC). In this role, she oversaw the firm’s multifamily portfolio of Class A residential communities located in Chicago, as well as a mixed-use portfolio in Boulder consisting of multifamily, office and retail. She was responsible for lease-up and stabilized residential assets and assisted with consulting on the firm’s new developments nationwide. Ariana also served as Director of Residential Management for McCaffery Interests, overseeing Class A multifamily properties, as well as Director of Operations for The Laramar Group, overseeing the operations for a 51-building portfolio, focusing on renovations and value-add. Based in Chicago, Ariana has more than a decade of experience in this market. She most recently oversaw a 586 unit lease up in the West Loop submarket and transitioned the property through stabilization, and oversee several stabilized assets in the Loop and River North submarkets. She will be assigned to oversee The Dylan at the regional level.

  JLL

  VP, Regional Multifamily Operations

  Ariana Rasansky

  VP, Regional Multifamily Operations

  JLL

• 

  Nathan Casteel

  Nathan doesn’t just design buildings—he choreographs experiences. For over two decades, he has shaped cities and communities through mixed-use, retail, hospitality, and housing projects: each a bold intersection of form, function, and human experience. His approach blends bold creativity with a deep understanding of materiality, constructability, and economic feasibility, ensuring every project is as functional as it is visionary. A keen problem-solver, Nathan is committed to delivering architecture that meets client goals while embracing forward-thinking design and sustainability. At the heart of it all, Nathan believes architecture is about people. It’s about crafting spaces that elevate everyday moments, spaces where ideas spark, communities thrive, and life unfolds.

  DLR Group

  Principal

  Nathan Casteel

  Principal

  DLR Group

• 

  Jorge Aguilar

  Jorge Aguilar is the founder and CEO of Trove, a fast-growing, venture backed vacation rental management company that helps real estate investors unlock more value through hospitality. Based in Chicago, Trove manages over 100 properties and operates in five markets nationwide, including Michigan, Arizona, North Carolina, and Washington D.C. Jorge brings a unique blend of technical and business expertise to the real estate space. Before launching Trove, he led software projects at Rotary International. He holds degrees in Economics and International Relations from St. Mary’s University and a Master’s in Information Technology from DePaul University. At Trove, he’s focused on scaling smart, guest-centric operations that drive ROI and set a new standard in short-term rental management.

  Trove

  Founder and CEO

  Jorge Aguilar

  Founder and CEO

  Trove

• 

  Luís Mendonça

  Head of Growth & Partnerships, Elite Wellness Amenity Group Author of The Elite Playbook: Turning Resident Wellness into ROI Franchise Leader • Wellness Strategist Luis Mendonça is a results-driven entrepreneur and wellness strategist transforming how real estate and fitness intersect in today’s multifamily landscape. As the Founder & CEO of Elite Home Fitness, the Northeast’s leading in-home personal training company, Luis has scaled a single-market startup into a thriving, multi-state franchise that delivers concierge-level fitness to thousands of residents in the comfort of their own homes. In his role as Head of Growth & Partnerships for Elite Wellness Amenity Group, Luis leads the charge in converting underutilized residential gyms into fully staffed, NOI-generating wellness centers. By partnering with Class A and lease-up properties, his team helps owners boost rent premiums, improve retention, and differentiate their communities in increasingly competitive markets. Luis is also the author of the upcoming book, The Elite Playbook: Turning Resident Wellness into ROI – A Proven Strategy to Monetize Apartment Gyms and Boost Retention, where he breaks down the winning formula for modern amenities that deliver both lifestyle value and measurable financial returns. With over a decade of experience in fitness, franchising, and partnership development, Luis brings a unique blend of innovation and operational insight. At the 2025 Bisnow Multifamily Annual Conference Midwest, he’ll share real-world strategies for rethinking wellness not as an expense—but as an asset.

  Elite Wellness Amenity Group

  Founder & CEO

  Luís Mendonça

  Founder & CEO

  Elite Wellness Amenity Group

• 

  Walid Matarieh

  Walid is a Manager of Commercial Development for Xfinity. Xfinity is the multifamily arm of Comcast, serving customers such as apartments, condos, dorms and senior facilities. Walid leads the Account Executive team, with a primary focus in the City of Chicago and surrounding suburbs, working with owners and associations to provide unique solutions to meet their needs. Walid joined Xfinity in 2013 bringing nearly 20 years of telecom experience with the last 10 years solely focused on Multi-family. Walid was born in Chicago and currently lives in the south suburbs with his wife and 3 kids.

  Xfinity

  Sr. Manager, Commercial Development

  Moderator

  Walid Matarieh

  Sr. Manager, Commercial Development

  Xfinity

Multifamily Capital in Transition: Navigating Debt, Equity & Valuation Shifts

Best Practices for Investment

• 

  J. Byron Brazier

  Lead Developer

  Woodlawn Central

• 

  Jeff Brown

  Jeff is the Founder, Chief Executive Officer, and Co-Chief Investment Officer at T2. In these leadership positions, Mr. Brown is responsible for setting corporate initiatives, business development, operational oversight, and maintaining culture. Prior to starting T2 in 2011, Jeff served as an Analyst at a Midwest-based family office followed by his tenure as President of a Midwest-based commercial real estate credit syndications company.

  T2

  Founder, CEO, Co-CIO

  Jeff Brown

  Founder, CEO, Co-CIO

  T2

• 

  Vicky Lee

  Vicky Lee is Senior Vice President, Development at Focus where she manages and leads the company's expansion into different markets across the Southeast region of the country. As a Management Team member, Vicky is responsible for defining and implementing internal strategies and policies with the goal to grow the organization. In addition, she leads real estate acquisition, development, and architectural design activities on multiple projects, totaling more than $800mm for both Focus and third-party clients. Within seven months of kicking off the Focus expansion, Vicky and her team tied up two sites in Florida and are currently full-steam-ahead in the predevelopment process of both sites. Other notable achievements include spearheading entitlement and acted as owner’s rep for The Atworth at Mellody Farm. She maintained an excellent relationship with the Village of Vernon Hills, achieving and maintaining mutual respect. This has led to Focus recognition in suburban placemaking, catalyzing the company's most recent 4 new mall-redevelopments in Vernon Hills and Aurora. Vicky’s combined experience in urban planning, architecture, and business has propelled Vicky into an industry leader. She currently serves on the Advisory Board for ULI Chicago, Vice Chair of ULI Public Private Partnership Council (Blue), Vice Chair of ULI Chicago Product Council (Green), and Chair of Cornell Real Estate Council Chicago Chapter. Her philanthropic activities include serving as Board of Directors for the nonprofit organization, Teachers Supporting Teachers. Vicky received her MBA at the S.C. Johnson School of Management at Cornell University and a BA in Architecture at University of Notre Dame.

  Focus

  Senior Vice President, Development

  Vicky Lee

  Senior Vice President, Development

  Focus

• 

  Samantha Miller

  Samantha is vice president and mortgage banker at KeyBank Real Estate Capital, based in Chicago. She focuses on multifamily debt originations, new business development and relationship management for real estate owners, investors and developers. Prior to KeyBank she worked in loan production at Freddie Mac. She specializes in student and manufactured housing. She is chair of mPact, the MBA's young professional board and is also actively involved in the Wisconsin Real Estate Alumni Association and Real Estate Financial Forum. She earned her BBA in Real Estate & Urban Land Economics and Marketing from University of Wisconsin Madison.

  KeyBank Real Estate Capital

  VP, Mortgage Banking

  Samantha Miller

  VP, Mortgage Banking

  KeyBank Real Estate Capital

• 

  Matthew Bowker

  Matthew Bowker is a founding Partner of Lodge Financial and principal of the firm. For the past twenty years he has originated thousands of commercial loans throughout the United States. He is responsible for the creation and development of the firm’s long term financial relationships and has helped develop and expand products to fit the market he knows so well. The depth of his experience in this field allows Matthew to offer custom commercial financing that utilizes this experience and allows Lodge Financial to make a well informed and accurate loan for its clients. Matthew is committed to keeping the big picture of the customer’s financial needs in mind while he gets the job done. Prior to Lodge Financial he was owner and VP of Wellington Mortgage Corporation and Wellington Realty Group in Chicago handling both commercial and residential mortgages and oversaw the property management of over 900 apartment units in and around Chicago.

  Lodge Financial

  Founder

  Matthew Bowker

  Founder

  Lodge Financial

• 

  Meghan Czechowski

  Meghan Czechowski is senior vice president and head of Apprise by Walker & Dunlop, based in Chicago. She specializes in multifamily products across the Midwest, working with institutional lenders, investors, life companies, banks, GSEs, valuations for annual reporting, and private equity. With extensive experience in the digital transformation of valuation tools, she has led a platform that grew from seven to 90 professionals in five years. Under her leadership, Apprise’s multifamily valuation market share doubled, rising from 4% to 10% in two years. Before joining Apprise, Mrs. Czechowski was managing director of Valuation & Advisory and national multifamily practice group lead at Cushman & Wakefield. She began her career in 2004 as a research specialist, later working in valuation and advisory, financial analysis, and multifamily appraisals, contributing to more than $3 billion in property valuations and dispositions. Throughout her career, Mrs. Czechowski has handled appraisal and consulting assignments across major property types nationwide, including power centers, multifamily, industrial, medical office, and more. Her expertise includes market-rate and affordable apartments, student housing, condominiums, and various investment properties. Known for her deep market insight, innovative use of valuation technology, and leadership in building high-performing teams, she has consistently delivered exceptional results, shaping the commercial real estate valuation landscape. Mrs. Czechowski earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing and business administration from Truman State University. She is also a certified general appraiser and is MAI designated. In addition, she was honored as one of GlobeSt's CRE's Best Bosses in 2024 and a GlobeSt Women of Influence in 2023. Under her leadership, Apprise has received the "Appraisal Solution of the Year" and the "CRE Data and Innovation" award from Proptech, as well as the "Most Innovative Technology" award from Commercial Property Executive.

  Apprise by Walker & Dunlop

  Senior Vice President, Head of Apprise

  Meghan Czechowski

  Senior Vice President, Head of Apprise

  Apprise by Walker & Dunlop

• 

  Joshua Hanna

  Joshua Hanna is a partner in the Real Estate Practice Group in the Chicago office of Kirkland & Ellis LLP, where he focuses on complex real estate transactions including joint ventures, acquisitions and dispositions as well as financing, development, management and restructuring of real estate assets. He advises private equity funds, REITs, foreign pension funds and other institutional investors in transactions involving various asset classes, including office, retail, multifamily, industrial, hospitality and community living. Chambers USA noted in its 2015 edition that Josh “has an increasingly prominent presence in the real estate market and is described by his clients as ‘a rising star who’s super-confident and gets things done’” with “notable expertise in the hospitality sector.” He was described as “outstanding” in the 2015 edition of The Legal 500 U.S. and “extraordinary” in the 2016 edition of Chambers USA. In the 2017 edition of Chambers USA, clients praised Josh for being “commercial and knowledgeable.”

  Kirkland & Ellis

  Partner

  Moderator

  Joshua Hanna

  Partner

  Kirkland & Ellis

Exploring Advancements in Affordable Development

Against the backdrop of a complex economic and political landscape, how are we making sure everyone has a place to call home?

• 

  John McDonnell

  Director of Multifamily Development

  Cook County Assessor's Office

• 

  Rob Dunn

  Managing Director

  Fairstead

• 

  Matt Fiascone

  Matt Fiascone, president of The Habitat Company, has led a full range of real estate development and investment activities for more than 30 years. Since joining The Habitat Company in 2011, Matt has been instrumental in strategizing, executing and managing capital events including development joint ventures, recapitalization of existing ventures and acquisitions. Matt has also established new relationships for both debt and equity, as well as strategic partnerships. As president he leads the creation and integration of the vision and growth of Habitat. During his tenure he has overseen the expansion of the company's footprint and assets under management with a focus on continuously enhancing the company's culture for its team members, partners and residents. Previously, Matt served as senior vice president for Inland Real Estate Development Corporation, where he originated and implemented real estate transactions involving assets valued at over $1 billion and negotiated and managed equity joint ventures. Matt serves as vice chairman of the Board of Directors of Inland Bank and Trust, a member of the Advisory Board for PSP Investments’ Downsview Development in Toronto, Ontario and a member of the Board of Directors of The Illinois Energy Conservation Authority NFP. He is also a member of Lambda Alpha (a Land Economics Honorary Society), the Urban Land Institute and the National Multifamily Housing Council. Matt has been a frequent speaker and panelist for industry events. In addition, he is a licensed real estate broker in Illinois, Florida, Wisconsin and Missouri. Matt has a bachelor's degree in business and economics from Bradley University.

  The Habitat Company

  President

  Matt Fiascone

  President

  The Habitat Company

• 

  Igor Zhizhin

  Director

  Lument

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  Jeremy Yost

  Jeremy Yost is a decorated U.S. Navy veteran and visionary real estate developer with a commanding record of leadership, growth, and community impact. During his four years of active duty, he was named Sailor of the Year twice for his command and was a two-time runner-up for Blue Jacket of the Year for Navy Region Midwest. While serving, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Management from the University of Phoenix—an early demonstration of his relentless drive and discipline. Mr. Yost advanced his education by attending the graduate school of technology at Eastern Illinois University and completing his MBA from Michigan State University. Since founding his first real estate venture in 2009, he has grown into a leading force in affordable and supportive housing, senior living, and hospitality across Illinois and Indiana—successfully overseeing the development of more than $200 million in real estate assets. He currently serves as Managing Partner of Innovative Development Partners, LLC and leads Yost Management Services, Inc., which operates 24 multifamily housing communities, multiple assisted living facilities, and the Hilton Garden Inn and McKenna-Yost Convention Center. Beyond business, Mr. Yost is a Master Mason at Masonic Lodge #35 in Charleston, Illinois, and is deeply committed to civic service. He sits on the boards of Illinois Affordable Housing, NFP, Illinois Housing Council, Affordable Assisted Living Coalition (legislative committee), and the South Central Continuum of Care. His previous leadership roles include the Eastern Illinois University Panther Club Executive Board, Chair of Fundraising for EIU Athletics, Charleston Area Chamber of Commerce Board, and Finance Officer for American Legion Post 93. His accolades include EIU Panther Club's Rookie of the Year, Biggest Catch Fundraiser (twice), and Partner of the Year by the Coles County Council on Aging. His work and leadership have been featured in CEO Magazine, E! Online, The Daily Caller, OK! Magazine, Reuters, and most recently as one of the Top Leaders on Fox 5 San Diego. In recognition of his significant contributions to supportive housing development, Mr. Yost was honored with the Supportive Housing Developer Recognition of Service award at the 2025 Home Illinois Summit. Mr. Yost resides in Charleston, Illinois, where he proudly raises his children and continues to invest in the future of his community.

  Yost Management Services

  CEO

  Jeremy Yost

  CEO

  Yost Management Services

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  Samuel Goldberg

  Sam Goldberg is a Principal at Sarnoff Property Tax, where his deep experience with multi-family operators—particularly in the Affordable Housing Special Assessment Program (AHSAP)—has made him a recognized leader in the field. He has secured over 260 AHSAP approvals, resulting in substantial savings for Sarnoff Property Tax clients. Sam is a frequent speaker at industry events focused on multi-family housing. Clients value his proactive approach, data-driven analysis, and commitment to open, transparent communication throughout the appeals process. He earned his law degree from the UIC School of Law and his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In addition to being a devoted Chicago sports fan, Sam is working hard to eliminate the dreaded “three-putt” from his golf game.

  Sarnoff Property Tax

  Principal

  Moderator

  Samuel Goldberg

  Principal

  Sarnoff Property Tax

Leadership Lookout

Our executive roundtable reviews the day and offers strategies for multifamily success in the coming year

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  Rick Hurd

  Rick Hurd Managing Partner, Investment Management Mr. Hurd joined Waterton in 2013 and serves as managing partner, investment management. Mr. Hurd collaborates with the firm’s executive management and works closely with the acquisition and capital market teams to oversee all real estate transactions. He helps to set strategy and further develop the firm’s market focus, investment execution and network of industry relationships. Mr. Hurd participates on the firm’s Management, Investment and Valuation Committees. Mr. Hurd has over 35 years of real estate investing experience with a strong focus on multifamily. Prior to joining Waterton, Mr. Hurd was the co-founder, president and chief investment officer of Strategic Capital Partners, a privately held real estate investment management company that invested over $1 billion in value add multifamily, hotel and commercial properties across the country. Prior to that, Mr. Hurd spent almost 20 years at GE Capital Real Estate (“GE”), where he was most recently a managing director responsible for GE’s institutional real estate equity program. While at GE, Mr. Hurd invested just under $2 billion in various equity joint ventures, preferred equity, mezzanine debt and convertible preferred equity strategies. Mr. Hurd holds a bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan University and an MBA from Drexel University. He is a board member of The Catalyst Schools, a Chicago based chartered school organization. Mr. Hurd is a member of the National Multi Housing Council (NMHC) and a member of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Multifamily Silver Council. He is also on the board of Up for Growth Action.

  Waterton

  Managing Partner, Investment Management

  Rick Hurd

  Managing Partner, Investment Management

  Waterton

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  Michael “Micky” Cicchinelli

  Micky leads the daily operations of a high-performance team, focusing on transparency, accountability, and client-driven results. With experience across all asset types—office, industrial, retail, mixed-use, and multifamily—he drives strategy and execution in operations, leasing, construction, and asset optimization. He began his career in REO management, gaining hands-on asset stabilization and repositioning expertise. Today, he works with institutional investors, capital groups, and international owners to unlock long-term value in Chicagoland real estate. Micky is a licensed Managing Broker in Illinois, and before SVN, held leadership roles at Kinzie Real Estate Group and Marc Realty. He is a Miami University (Ohio) graduate and a lifelong Chicagoan who resides in Northbrook with his wife and two sons.

  SVN Chicago Property Management

  Principal & CEO

  Michael “Micky” Cicchinelli

  Principal & CEO

  SVN Chicago Property Management

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  Steve Sise

  Steve Sise oversees the operations of properties within Golub’s commercial and residential portfolio with an intense focus on financial and operating performance. He ensures that the property management teams collaborate with leasing, acquisitions, development and accounting groups, as well as with Golub’s capital partners, to create and execute successful business plans. Steve leverages his diverse background in asset management, acquisitions and dispositions along with a keen sense of real estate to further the strong performance of the company’s portfolio. He earned a BA degree from John Carroll University, and is a Board Member for BOMA Chicago, the Chicagoland Apartment Association and Magnificent Mile Association. Steve is a licensed real estate broker with the State of Illinois. He joined Golub & Company in 2008.

  Golub & Company

  COO

  Steve Sise

  COO

  Golub & Company

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  Nick Marietti

  CEO

  Vennpoint Real Estate

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  Shane Rachman

  Shane is all about supporting every aspect of the team and helping owners create plans for their real estate assets. Shane’s passion for real estate is fueled by the tangible nature of the industry and the profound impact it has on people’s everyday lives. Armed with an engineering degree from the University of Iowa, Shane brings problem-solving skills and a logical, operational mindset to the table. Shane is incredibly invested in every project that Cross Street tackles, and as a true leader, he cares deeply about the success of each and every team member at Cross Street. Early in his career, Shane discovered his entrepreneurial spirit and a love for inspiring others to do the same. Real estate became the perfect balance of hard work and lifestyle, allowing him to put his family first. In his free time, you’ll find Shane playing soccer, walking his dog Taj, and spending quality moments with his wife Erica and three daughters, Sloane, Rafael and Zoe. Shane can’t live without his family—they are the cornerstone of his life. Shane’s greatest strength is his attentive listening. He thrives on the entrepreneurial nature of the real estate business, finding joy in inspiring others to take the plunge. Friends would describe him as someone who rallies the troops, and clients see him as a true partner in their real estate endeavors.

  Cross Street

  President & Founder

  Shane Rachman

  President & Founder

  Cross Street

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  Scott Sattler

  Scott Sattler is a partner in the firm’s Chicago, IL office. He serves as a trusted advisor to real estate developers and managers, professional services companies, manufacturers, construction contractors, and wealthy families. A key component of Scott's client relationships is the assistance he offers when they face significant decisions as well as daily business needs. Scott has extensive experience in accounting, taxation, and business consulting, with a specialized focus in the real estate sector. He also assists clients with due diligence and related advice regarding mergers, acquisitions, and the disposition of companies and their assets. He also advises clients, utilizing trust/estate and partnership tax laws, on structuring for both estate and income tax purposes for business and asset acquisitions and dispositions, including tax deferred exchanges. Scott has extensive knowledge when it comes to assisting closely held companies and individuals with all aspects of financial matters, with an emphasis on advising pass-through entities and their owners. Previously, Scott was a partner at Shepard Schwartz & Harris LLP, which joined Citrin Cooperman in 2022.

  Citrin Cooperman

  Partner

  Moderator

  Scott Sattler

  Partner

  Citrin Cooperman