Impact

The PSU Center for Real Estate was founded over twenty years ago by Portland real estate leaders with a shared belief: a strong industry depends on sustained investment in talent. Today, the Center remains 100% privately funded by leaders committed to shaping the future of commercial real estate.

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Advisory Board

PSU Center for Real Estate’s Advisory Board consists of 30 of the region’s prominent real estate professionals who have demonstrated their deep commitment to the Center through contributions of time and finances to support and grow the Center for Real Estate. The Center’s board is represented by all facets of the real estate industry, from development to brokerage to affordable housing. Board members are passionate about supporting students and actively provide access to their firms for mentorship, job shadow experiences, internships and networking. Board members also contribute financially to the Center for Real Estate’s operational activities and support students through an Advisory Board Scholarship contributing over $15,000 annually in scholarships.

Zoom info

Where Corporate Real Estate Comes to Life

The Center for Real Estate hosted a student tour of ZoomInfo’s new headquarters at the Vancouver waterfront. Students connected with industry leaders and explored how corporate real estate, workplace design, and company culture intersect in practice. The visit helped bridge classroom learning with real-world career pathways in commercial real estate.

Ata Mohaghegh

From Residential Roots to Commercial Heights

After nearly 20 years in residential appraisal, Ata Mohaghegh enrolled in PSU’s MSRE to transition into commercial real estate valuation. The program provided the analytical training, credentials, and network to support his pivot. He now serves as a Senior Valuation Analyst at CBRE, demonstrating the long-term value of the degree.

Jonathan

Stretching Beyond the Prepared

PSU senior Jonathan Andres gained hands-on experience through roles at Greystar and the Port of Portland. His internships strengthened his professional network and practical skills in property management and community engagement. His path highlights the importance of persistence and applied learning in building a real estate career.

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The Power of Mentorship: Hannah Mathew’s MSRE Near Peer Experience

Hannah Mathew entered PSU’s MSRE program as part of a deliberate career pivot into commercial real estate. Through the Near Peer Program, she gained mentorship and professional clarity. By the end of her first quarter, she secured a role at Cushman & Wakefield as a Real Estate Strategy Analyst.

Real Estate Alumni Tour Highlights Southern Oregon’s Resilience and Recovery

Real Estate Alumni Tour Highlights Southern Oregon’s Resilience and Recovery

Center for Real Estate alumni traveled to Southern Oregon to examine post-fire recovery and rebuilding efforts. Through discussions with local leaders and site visits, participants explored community-centered redevelopment. The weekend underscored the role of collaboration and long-term commitment in shaping resilient communities.

From Community Assets to Economic Resilience: Students Learn from the Twin Cities

From Community Assets to Economic Resilience: Students Learn from the Twin Cities

Portland State University Master of Real Estate Development students participated in the Portland Metro Chamber’s Best Practices Trip to Minneapolis–St. Paul, sponsored by Killian Pacific. The visit highlighted how economic growth, civic collaboration, and higher education contribute to resilient urban development.

Portland State real estate alumni team up to build better cities

Portland State real estate alumni team up to build better cities

Portland State MRED alumni founded Viking Development to address housing needs through sustainable, neighborhood-focused design. Emphasizing gentle density and Net Zero Energy, their first 12-unit project in St. Johns reflects a commitment to climate resilience and thoughtful urban growth.

From Service to Strategy: Veteran Matt Rissi’s Journey into Real Estate

From Service to Strategy: Veteran Matt Rissi’s Journey into Real Estate

After serving in the U.S. Navy, Matt Rissi pursued PSU’s MSRE to deepen his expertise in commercial real estate. The program strengthened his role in commercial banking and supported his transition into real estate finance. His journey highlights how the MSRE bridges military leadership experience with technical knowledge and industry connections.

Celebrating the Graduate Class of 2025: Purpose. Resilience. Impact.

Celebrating the Graduate Class of 2025: Purpose. Resilience. Impact.

Masaye Hoshide, MSRE Masaye Hoshide pursued the MSRE to deepen her impact on the built environment and community development. Her experience highlights the importance of partnership, finance expertise, and authentic networking in real estate.

Celebrating 20 Years of Vision: The Center for Real Estate’s Commitment to Portland’s Future

Celebrating 20 Years of Vision: The Center for Real Estate’s Commitment to Portland’s Future

The Center for Real Estate at Portland State University marked its 20th anniversary with the 2025 “Investing in the Future” conference. The event highlighted the Center’s impact in developing industry talent and convened civic leaders to discuss equitable growth and Portland’s long-term resilience.

Save the Date for Spring Day of Giving 2025: Empower the future of business

Save the Date for Spring Day of Giving 2025: Empower the future of business

Portland State University’s School of Business will host Spring Day of Giving on April 16–17, 2025. Gifts support scholarships, career development, and student success across business programs. Every contribution helps empower the next generation of business leaders.

The School of Business Real Estate Research Highly Ranked in The Real Estate Academic Leadership (REAL) Rankings

The School of Business Real Estate Research Highly Ranked in The Real Estate Academic Leadership (REAL) Rankings

Portland State University’s School of Business earned global recognition in the 2020–2024 REAL Rankings for real estate research. Dr. Julia Freybote ranked among the top real estate scholars worldwide, while PSU placed 16th globally and #1 in the Pacific Northwest for research output. The achievement highlights the school’s leadership and innovation in real estate scholarship.

Donor Spotlight: Barry Menashe

Donor Spotlight: Barry Menashe

Barry Menashe, founder of Menashe Properties, has spent nearly five decades building a leading commercial real estate firm in Portland. A strong believer in education and community impact, he supports PSU’s Center for Real Estate to help develop future industry leaders.

Q&A with Lance Killian

Q&A with Lance Killian

Lance Killian honors his father George’s legacy of integrity, relationships, and community-focused development at Killian Pacific. Through philanthropic support of PSU’s Center for Real Estate, the firm invests in future industry leaders. His advice to students: build relationships, stay curious, and get involved.

Learning What Feels Right – A Study in Affordable Housing

Learning What Feels Right – A Study in Affordable Housing

Christina Mirani joined PSU’s MSRE to transition into affordable housing finance after working in development. The program’s finance focus and industry connections have helped her refine her path toward advancing equitable housing solutions.

Gaining a Competitive Advantage

Gaining a Competitive Advantage

Marie Gomez pursued a business degree at Portland State University to strengthen her leadership skills and gain a competitive advantage. Drawing on her experience at Amazon and involvement with the REEL club, she combined academic training with networking to prepare for future career growth.

Alisa Pyszka - Executive Director Center for Real Estate

Alisa Pyszka - Executive Director Center for Real Estate

Alisa Pyszka joined PSU as Executive Director of the Center for Real Estate, bringing extensive experience in urban planning and economic development. Previously an adjunct professor and advisory board member, she is focused on expanding the program’s visibility and strengthening industry partnerships. Her leadership emphasizes both career-ready education and the broader civic impact of commercial real estate.

A lifelong Journey in Business

A lifelong Journey in Business

Collin Buzzelli, a first-generation college student and single parent, pursued a degree in Business Management and a Certificate in Real Estate Property Management at PSU to advance his career. After pivoting from industrial work into property management, he now oversees multiple properties and plans to continue into PSU’s MSRE program. His journey reflects resilience, professional growth, and a strong commitment to building a better future for his family.