#USA #New York City #CREFC #Anne Jablonski #Adam Behlman

CREFC Awards 2026: Honoring Leadership in Commercial Real Estate Finance

On June 9, 2026, the CRE Finance Council (CREFC) unveiled its prestigious award recipients during the Annual Conference in New York City. The distinguished recognition went to Anne Jablonski, who earned the title of the 2026 Woman of Distinction, and Adam Behlman, honored with the Founders Award for his outstanding contributions to the industry.

Anne Jablonski: A Trailblazer in Real Estate Finance

Jablonski, who serves as the Executive Managing Director and Head of Commercial Real Estate at SitusAMC, is celebrated for her exemplary role in promoting diversity and inclusion within the commercial real estate finance sector. With over thirty years of experience, she has significantly shaped the industry landscape and exemplifies the caliber of professionalism that the Woman of Distinction Award signifies.

Her responsibilities at SitusAMC encompass strategic direction and operational management of the company's commercial real estate segment. Under her guidance, SitusAMC has positioned itself as a key player among real estate lenders and investors, focusing on managing and valuing extensive real estate portfolios. Jablonski's leadership journey is complemented by her active participation in mentoring and supporting the next generation of industry professionals.

Expressing her gratitude for the recognition, Jablonski acknowledged the influence of her mentors and colleagues throughout her career, emphasizing the importance of fostering an inclusive environment in the field.

Adam Behlman: Shaping the Future of Commercial Real Estate

Adam Behlman, who leads the Real Estate Investing and Servicing segment at Starwood Property Trust and also serves as the President of Starwood Mortgage Capital, received the Founders Award. This accolade recognizes his longstanding commitment to innovative leadership and substantial contributions to enhancing the commercial real estate finance industry.

With over two decades of dedication to CREFC, Behlman has played a critical role, including serving as Chairman during a particularly challenging period in market history. His influence extends beyond his executive responsibilities; he has actively supported educational programs that benefit aspiring professionals in real estate finance and has participated in various initiatives supporting diversity within the industry.

His humility is notable as he expressed gratitude upon receiving the Founders Award, remembering the support and collaboration that have marked his career.

Impact and Legacy

The awards presented at CREFC not only celebrate individual accomplishments but also highlight the collective efforts in championing inclusiveness and professional development within a traditionally male-dominated realm. Jablonski's and Behlman’s stories serve as motivation for many, proving that both innovative practices and a commitment to mentoring are essential for advancing the industry.

As both awardees commit to nurturing the next wave of leaders, their recognition is a poignant reminder that the commercial real estate finance sector continues to evolve, driven by dedicated individuals pushing for progress and inclusion.

With a membership exceeding 19,000 professionals and 400 companies, CREFC has been an influential advocate for more than three decades, promoting market liquidity and best practices across the commercial real estate finance landscape. The organization's importance in shaping the future of the industry cannot be overstated, as it strives to cultivate an environment where women and diverse individuals can thrive in commercial real estate finance.

As we look forward to future advancements within the industry, the legacy of leaders like Jablonski and Behlman promises a more equitable and dynamic future for all professionals in the field.