Newmark Associates CRE has successfully wrapped up its 3rd annual summer mentorship program, providing high school students from Newark Public Schools with hands-on immersion into the commercial real estate (CRE) industry.
The four-week initiative was spearheaded by Newmark Associates President & CEO Susanne Newmark, Vice Presidents Jeannette Melillo and Ebony Parham, and Sales Associate Jack Maier, in partnership with University High School English teacher Ernest Pope. The firm also recognized Newark Public School Superintendent Roger León and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Maria Ortiz for championing programs that create actionable career pathways for local students.
Centered around the core theme “Believe, Behave, Become,” the program challenged students to unlock their potential, exercise professional discipline, and envision themselves as future community leaders. The immersive curriculum included:
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Newark development tour: Students kicked off the program touring 915 Broad Street and dining at Cornbread with prominent developer and Newark Public Schools alumna Adenah Bayoh, who shared insights on hard work, dedication, and the value of mentorship.
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Deal simulation workshop: At the Newmark Associates office in Cedar Knolls, students engaged in a hands-on commercial transaction simulation, role-playing as buyers, sellers, brokers, attorneys, lenders, zoning officials and tradespeople.
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Academic exploration: A visit to NJIT’s Hillier College of Architecture and Design exposed students to architecture, environmental impact studies and CRE-adjacent college and career pathways.
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Entrepreneurial insights: The final session featured guest speaker Spencer Pascal, an industrial commercial real estate leader who detailed his entrepreneurial journey and the role of discipline in achieving long-term success.
Reflecting on the success of the program, CEO Susanne Newmark emphasized the firm’s dedication to community enrichment:
“Our mission is to contribute to the communities around us,” said Susanne Newmark. “This program reflects our belief that real transformation happens when we provide young people with access, education, and mentorship. We were excited to welcome Newark’s future leaders into our offices and help shape their paths forward.”
Headquartered in Cedar Knolls, Newmark Associates CRE is a certified women-owned business with over 35 years of experience specializing in office, industrial, retail, land, healthcare, and mixed-use property transactions throughout the region.
