Project REAP honored by ICSC for leadership and impact in Commercial Real Estate

Washington, D.C. Project REAP (Real Estate Associate Program), a nonprofit for developing exceptional talent in commercial real estate, was named an Impact Award honoree “for leading our industry forward” at the 2025 ICSC CBC Retail Real Estate reception. The event, held on September 25 at The Morrow Hotel in Washington, D.C., brought together retail real estate executives, policymakers, and community leaders to recognize the achievements of industry leaders and highlight partnerships that foster more inclusive marketplaces. This is the second year that the ICSC Reception took place during Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) week.

“We were excited to host our second annual CBC Retail Real Estate Reception to honor trailblazers for their leadership and community impact and celebrate our strategic partnerships,” said Tom McGee, president and CEO, ICSC. “In doing so, we hope to inspire the next generation of talent to step forward to further strengthen our industry.”

Project REAP was recognized alongside Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Lyneir Richardson (CEO and co-founder of Chicago Trend), and the Morgan State University Chapter of Diversity and Inclusion in Real Estate. Honorees were celebrated for their contributions to expanding opportunity and strengthening communities through commercial real estate.

ICSC has been a key sponsor and partner of Project REAP since its founding in 1997, playing an instrumental role in advancing the program’s mission. Today, that connection is reflected at the highest levels of leadership. Project REAP alums include Angele Robinson-Gaylord, chair of the ICSC board of trustees and REAP board member; Jazmen Johnson, president of the ICSC Foundation and REAP Board member; and Lesley Campbell, general counsel and senior vice president, Talent Engagement & Office Relations at ICSC. Their leadership underscores the program’s long-term impact in developing talent that now guides the industry itself. 

“ICSC’s recognition of Project REAP underscores the lasting impact of our mission: developing high-potential professionals and preparing them to thrive in an industry where exceptional talent drives success,” said Taneshia Nash Laird, executive director of Project REAP. “As we approach three decades of creating career pathways in commercial real estate, we remain committed to ensuring that our alumni not only succeed individually but also shape the future of the industry.”

Since 1997, Project REAP has connected over 2,000 professionals with industry training, mentorship, and networks that have propelled careers and transformed organizations across the country. In 2025, REAP continues to expand through new initiatives, such as 3P – Pro Players Property, a program that equips current and retired professional athletes to leverage real estate as a tool for wealth building and community strengthening.

The 2025 ICSC CBC Retail Real Estate Reception event proceeds benefit the ICSC Foundation, the charitable arm of ICSC dedicated to strengthening the marketplace’s industry through education, scholarships, and community investment.