CREFC Scholars Program Recognizes Emerging Talent
The CREFC and NYU scholarship program fosters the growth of the next generation of professionals in real estate finance. This year marks the celebration of the achievements of the latest CREFC Scholars, promoting talent and education in the commercial real estate sector.
A Look at the 2025-2026 CREFC Scholars
The CREFC and the Schack Institute of Real Estate proudly announced their new cohort of CREFC Scholars. The selected scholars include two undergraduate scholars and four graduate students who exemplify academic excellence and dedication to commercial real estate finance.
Meet the Undergraduate Scholarship Recipients
Undergraduate Scholarship Recipients:
1. Matthew Volkening
2. Phuc Le
Graduate Student Scholarship Recipients
Graduate Student Scholarship Recipients:
1. Souleymane Ba
2. Julie Dettwiler
3. Ahmed ElTir
4. Juliana Rivera Vallejo
Selection Criteria and Opportunities
The choices made by the CREFC Endowment Committee relied heavily on attributes such as academic performance, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to a career in commercial real estate finance. An impressive total of 37 students submitted their applications for these prestigious scholarships, demonstrating the program's popularity and competitive nature.
Scholar Benefits and Support
Alongside their merit scholarships, CREFC Scholars receive additional perks, including a complimentary CREFC Academic membership, which grants them access to invaluable resources such as the CREFC Resource Center and Career Center. Scholars can also engage in networking opportunities and attend significant conferences and educational programs organized by CREFC, as well as express interest in the mentorship program that connects scholars with industry professionals.
Spotlight on Graduate Scholars
Souleymane Ba is pursuing his Master of Science in Real Estate with a Finance and Investment concentration at NYU. As a member of the Hirsh Fellows program, he has gathered extensive experience through various impactful internships, including stints at CBRE and Starwood Property Trust.
Julie Dettwiler is also pursuing a Master of Science in Real Estate and has already had notable contributions as an infrastructure analyst and a real estate finance intern. Her enthusiasm for sustainable design began with a transformative renovation project that showcased her skills in maximizing property value.
Ahmed ElTir, a graduate of Trinity College, is keen on enhancing his real estate finance skills. His experience spans analyzing financial models and he aims to integrate his knowledge into the Egyptian real estate market in the future.
Juliana Rivera Vallejo brings her background in architecture and corporate finance to her Master’s in Real Estate Finance and Investment, recently interning at a prominent boutique development firm and actively participating in related competitions.
Highlighting Undergraduate Scholars
Matthew Volkening is nearing the completion of his Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Finance and possesses rich experience in investment analysis and asset management, reinforcing his academic learnings through practical roles.
Phuc Le, also a student at NYU, is engaged with the Schack Real Estate Club and has significant experience from internships, showcasing his commitment to affordable housing initiatives.
The Impact of CREFC and the Scholars Program
The CREFC Center for Real Estate Finance, established in 2020, serves as a collaborative hub for industry dialogue and student engagement, with support from endowment contributions aimed at fostering innovative programming. The scholarship not only recognizes outstanding students but invests in their potential to contribute to the future of commercial real estate finance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CREFC Scholars Program?
The CREFC Scholars Program recognizes and supports exceptional undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in commercial real estate finance.
Who are the recipients of the 2025-2026 CREFC Scholarship?
The recipients include undergraduate scholars Matthew Volkening and Phuc Le, and graduate scholars Souleymane Ba, Julie Dettwiler, Ahmed ElTir, and Juliana Rivera Vallejo.
What benefits do CREFC Scholars receive?
CREFC Scholars enjoy merit scholarships, complimentary CREFC Academic membership, networking opportunities, and access to mentorship programs.
How are the scholarship recipients selected?
Selections are based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and career focus on commercial real estate finance.
What is the CREFC Center for Real Estate Finance?
The CREFC Center is an initiative aimed at fostering collaboration and engagement within the commercial real estate sector, supported by endowment gifts to enhance educational opportunities for students.
