Melissa Warren, CCIM Appointed to NAIOP Corporate Board of Directors
Stirling is proud to share that Melissa Warren, CCIM – Stirling Properties Senior Advisor, has been appointed to the 2026–2028 NAIOP Corporate Board of Directors.
This prestigious appointment recognizes Melissa’s leadership, expertise, and commitment to advancing the commercial real estate industry.
NAIOP, The Commercial Real Estate Development Association is the leading organization for developers, owners, and investors of office, industrial, retail, and mixed-use real estate. With more than 21,000 members, NAIOP provides strong advocacy, education, and business opportunities through a powerful North American network.
Join us in congratulating Melissa on this well-deserved achievement!
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
Nothing Bundt Cakes Coming to Hammond, LA
Sweet News, Hammond!
Stirling is excited to announce that Nothing Bundt Cakes is opening its very FIRST location in Tangipahoa Parish at 1913 SW Railroad Ave., Hammond, LA.
Stirling is proud to have played a part in bringing this beloved bakery brand to the community. Who’s excited!
Congratulations to Steve Legendre, CCIM and Gabrielle Adams who represented the tenant, and Benjamin N. Graham, CCIM who represented the landlord in this exciting transaction.
Congratulations, Melissa!
Congratulations to Senior Advisor, Melissa Warren, CCIM – Stirling, CCIM, for being named one of Biz New Orleans Top 11 Real Estate Influencers!
In a year marked by shifting market dynamics and evolving demand across all sectors, Melissa continues to demonstrate leadership, resilience, and expertise in helping clients achieve their goals.
We’re proud to celebrate her recognition among New Orleans’ top real estate professionals making an impact in our region.
Stirling Advisors Close on Sale of 4600 Chef Menteur Highway
New Orleans, LA — October 1, 2025 — Stirling is pleased to announce the successful sale of 4600 Chef Menteur Highway in New Orleans. Advisors Benjamin Graham and Carly Plotkin represented the seller in this NNN investment deal, which officially closed today.
The property, formerly a Winn-Dixie, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Stirling’s leasing team previously represented the owner in securing long-term leases with national retailers AutoZone and Harbor Freight, bringing new life and economic activity to the corridor.
“From leasing the former Winn-Dixie box to now completing the investment sale, this transaction showcases the strength of the site and the value Stirling brings to our clients through every stage of the real estate cycle,” said Benjamin Graham, Advisor with Stirling.
Carly Plotkin, Advisor with Stirling, added, “It has been exciting to see this property’s evolution and to play a role in positioning it for long-term success with national tenants.”
The sale underscores Stirling’s expertise in both leasing and investment sales, and its continued commitment to delivering value-driven solutions for property owners and investors across the Gulf South.
September 2025 Top 5 Stirling Advisors
Top Advisors | September 2025
Congratulations to our leading producers for the month of September!
Your dedication, market expertise, and results-driven performance continue to raise the bar for excellence at Stirling.
