George Mason University’s C. Kat Grimsley will serve in this role.

January 18, 2023 – Former NAIOP President and CEO Thomas J. Bisacquino is being honored with the NAIOP Research Foundation’s third named Distinguished Fellow. C. Kat Grimsley, Ph.D., Director, Master of Science in Real Estate Development, George Mason University, has been designated as the inaugural recipient. 

The position is endowed by the Thomas J. Bisacquino Honorary Fund, established by members of NAIOP to honor Bisacquino’s exemplary service to the association and the commercial real estate industry. Bisacquino retired in June 2022 after 33 years at the organization. 

“I am extremely honored that Dr. Grimsley has accepted this appointment with the NAIOP Research Foundation. She is uniquely qualified to provide insight and assistance with the many challenges the CRE industry is currently facing during these uncertain economic times. I am confident that her counsel will be beneficial to all,” said Bisacquino.   

The Research Foundation’s Distinguished Fellows Program engages the nation’s foremost commercial real estate, economic and public policy experts. Distinguished Fellows contribute articles to NAIOP’s Development magazine, present to the organization’s National Forums groups, and provide advice, feedback and information regarding research being conducted on behalf of the commercial real estate industry.  

“Kat has been an exemplary Distinguished Fellow for the NAIOP Research Foundation through her numerous research contributions and participation in its programs. It is fitting that she was given this honor named for someone who also demonstrated enthusiasm, dedication and service throughout his career,” said Jennifer LeFurgy, executive director of the NAIOP Research Foundation. 

Grimsley is responsible for the administration of all aspects of George Mason University’s real estate program, including community building, curriculum management, and strategic development. She began her career in the private sector doing market research, financial modeling, and transactional work with commercial real estate in the Washington, D.C., market. She managed international property development portfolio for the U.S. Department of State, where she developed acquisition strategies for diplomatic properties in more than 25 countries and represented the U.S. Government during implementation. She is a three-time recipient of the Department of State’s Exemplary Performance Award. 

For more on the NAIOP Research Foundation and the Distinguished Fellows program, visit naiop.org/researchfoundation.