#United States #Washington, D.C. #Georgetown University #Steers Center #Kelly Sewell Nagel

Kelly Sewell Nagel Takes Leadership Role at Georgetown's Steers Center

The Steers Center for Global Real Assets at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business has announced the appointment of Kelly Sewell Nagel as the new head of real estate and the Steers Endowed Professor of the Practice in Real Estate. This crucial role comes as part of the center's strategic expansion to strengthen its real estate programming and enhance its connections with real estate practices.

In her new role, Nagel is expected to lead initiatives that bridge academic learning with institutional practices in real estate, particularly in Washington, D.C. This involves shaping the center’s evolution into a practice-driven real assets program while contributing to its overall thought leadership. With an ever-changing landscape in the real estate industry, her leadership is poised to prepare students for future challenges and opportunities.

Matthew Cypher, the director of the Steers Center, expressed optimism about Nagel’s appointment. He stated, “Kelly’s leadership marks a significant progression in realizing our vision. We are committed to building a faculty and curriculum that align with the caliber of the industry we are preparing our students for, encompassing real estate, infrastructure, and energy.”

A Wealth of Experience

Nagel boasts over 20 years of leadership experience in institutional real estate. Her previous roles include overseeing investments for Aimco's East Coast portfolio consisting of more than 5,000 units and establishing a national residential platform within EDENS’ impressive $6.8 billion portfolio. Additionally, she leads the advisory practice Residy and serves as a trustee for the Urban Land Institute.

Expressing her excitement about the new role, Nagel said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my teaching journey at Georgetown over the past few years. The opportunity to further contribute and help sculpt what’s next for the Steers Center is exhilarating.” She recognizes the importance of equipping students with more than just technical skills; they need to develop a strong foundational understanding and the acumen to ask insightful questions, understand the nuances, and recognize when something doesn't seem quite right in financial models.

Strengthening Education and Industry Ties

Nagel’s appointment is part of a broader strategy by the Steers Center to develop distinct verticals in real estate, infrastructure, and energy. This includes plans for expanding the faculty base as the real assets curriculum grows. The center aims to equip students to lead in the global real assets industry through practical learning experiences that meld real estate, infrastructure, and energy insights, exploiting Washington, D.C.'s unique position at the crossroads of business, policy, and developed environments.

Conclusion

As the real estate sector undergoes numerous transformations due to market trends and economic shifts, Nagel’s leadership will be vital in preparing students for a future filled with opportunities and challenges. The Steers Center at Georgetown is taking significant steps toward fostering industry-ready graduates who are well-prepared to thrive in an evolving market landscape. This appointment solidifies Georgetown’s commitment to producing high-caliber professionals equipped with the necessary skills and judgment to succeed in the dynamic world of real estate.

This innovative approach at Georgetown University underscores the essential connection between education and professional practice, further enhancing the academic environment that prepares future industry leaders.