The commercial real estate industry is celebrating a banner year for two of NAIOP’s most dynamic chapters: NAIOP SoCal and NAIOP NYC Metro. Both were honored by NAIOP Corporate through its prestigious Chapter Merit Awards, with SoCal earning Chapter of the Year and NYC Metro capturing Chapter of the Year along with Highest Number of New Members—a rare dual distinction that underscores the momentum, engagement and leadership powering the chapter.
The Chapter Merit Awards recognize excellence in programming, membership growth, advocacy, and industry impact. This year, both chapters stood out for their ability to convene decision-makers, deliver high-value content, and create meaningful opportunities for connection across the CRE ecosystem. Central to that success has been strong, hands-on leadership—with Connect CRE’s executive team playing a visible role in helping shape strategy, elevate visibility, and expand reach.
On the West Coast, Daniel Ceniceros, CEO and founder of Connect, serves on the SoCal Board of Directors, while Sarah Quinn, EVP and co-founder, serves as the Vice Chair of chapter’s Awards Committee. In New York, Emily Lettieri, EVP of Connect, serves on the NYC Metro Executive Board as Secretary and Marketing & Communications Chair.
With Connect leadership embedded in both chapters, the alignment between media, membership, and programming has created a powerful growth engine—amplifying visibility, strengthening community, and helping propel both chapters to national honors. The result: two high-performing NAIOP chapters operating at the top of their game and helping set the pace for the broader commercial real estate industry.
Pictured, from left: Tim Oberweger, Chief of Staff, NAIOP NYC Metro, Stewart Title; Blake Grosch, 2025 President, NAIOP NYC Metro, MSCI; Timothy Jemal, CEO | NAIOP SoCal; and David Alan Lewis, VP, NAIOP NYC Metro, Chase.
