2025 Crew Network Convention Insights

When industry leaders come together, powerful ideas emerge. Donna F. Smith and Rhonda Sharkawy recently returned from the 2025 CREW Network Convention with valuable insights and inspiration to share.

The 2025 Crew Network National Convention was a fantastic gathering, bringing together over 1,400 commercial real estate leaders for a whirlwind of networking, educational sessions, and deal-making opportunities. These leaders came from various sectors of the commercial real estate industry, including retail, industrial, brokerage, construction, architecture, and lending. The sessions were rich with industry education, leadership development, and innovative projects.

Rhonda and I, along with other New Orleans CREW Members, had the pleasure of attending numerous sessions, exploring the Networking Marketplace, and taking tours of some truly innovative projects in the Austin Metro area. The featured speakers were absolutely inspiring. Chely Wright, the award-winning country vocalist who is now the Senior Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and New Market Growth for North America at ISS, shared her insightful perspectives. Hassam Nadji, CEO of Marcus and Millichap gave an uplifting and factual discussion on the state of the economy where we are and where we are going, and The Rt. Hon. Dame Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, also delivered compelling speeches.

This vibrant yet intimate convention provided an excellent opportunity to connect with many professionals in our field. We were particularly fortunate to attend the Retail Session with ICSC Board of Trustees member Valerie Richardson and Anjee Solanki, National Director of U.S. Retail & Practice Groups at Colliers. They delved into the current happenings in the retail world, offering valuable insights.

-Donna F. Smith, EVP