Day One Recap: Fall Forum 2025

The 2025 Fall Forum is officially underway—and what a start it was. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Vancouver, BC, Day One brought together CCIMs from around the world for a powerful kickoff filled with exploration, education, and connection. From touring the city’s most dynamic developments to diving into hands-on training with Site To Do Business, attendees wasted no time immersing themselves in the learning and collaboration that define the CCIM experience. With inspiring JWL presentations and a rooftop welcome reception to close out the evening, the Forum began with the perfect mix of insight, innovation, and community.

We kicked off our 2025 Fall Forum in beautiful Vancouver, BC, with clear skies, incredible energy, and a crowd of CCIMs ready for a week packed with learning, networking, dealmaking, and connection. From the moment attendees arrived, the excitement was unmistakable: colleagues reuniting, first-time participants diving right in, and conversations sparking around every corner. 

The stage is officially set for an unforgettable week of insight, collaboration, and opportunity. Here’s what happened on Day One of Fall Forum: 

Exploring Vancouver - City Tour 
Attendees spent the afternoon exploring some of Vancouver’s most iconic developments. The tour kicked off at the JW Marriott Parq with welcome remarks and an overview of downtown’s transformation. 

Stops included Plaza of Nations, a historic Expo 86 site set for redevelopment; BC Place and Rogers Arena, notable public-private infrastructure successes; and the Concord Pacific Showroom, showcasing Canada’s largest master-planned community. Participants also visited Science World, Olympic Village, and enjoyed a scenic water taxi ride to Granville Island, a hub for arts and culture. 

The tour wrapped up with a return to the JW Marriott Parq, giving attendees a chance to reflect on Vancouver’s past, present, and future. 

Training Session: How to Maximize the Value of STDB 
Attendees got an in-depth look at Site To Do Business (STDB), The CCIM Institute’s most powerful tool for commercial real estate professionals. Led by Mark Cypert, CCIM, and Michael Hironimus, CCIM, the session demonstrated how STDB empowers CCIMs to make smarter, data-driven decisions across site selection, market analysis, and client reporting. 

Participants explored hands-on case studies and AI-driven workflows, learning how to turn complex data into actionable insights. The session also highlighted the latest AI tools and how to integrate them into your daily workflow, making STDB stronger and more versatile than ever. 

By the end of the session, attendees left with a clear understanding of how to efficiently blend new technology with Site To Do Business strategies, enhance client value, and stay ahead in today’s competitive commercial real estate landscape. 

JWL Presentations 
The afternoon showcased the capstone of a year-long journey for the JWL cohort, highlighting their dedication, collaboration, and leadership growth. Attendees had the opportunity to sit in on presentations that explored innovative ideas, research, and strategies for advancing the CCIM community. The cohort presentations included the following: 

• Engage NextGen CRE Professionals 
  (Daynon Kirby, CCIM; Darrick Klamut, CCIM; Michelle Leung, CCIM; Veronica Malolos, CCIM; Wyen Koan, CCIM) 
  This presentation focused on how CCIM chapters can better engage and support the next generation of commercial real estate professionals. The group identified key challenges such as accessibility, financial barriers, and limited mentorship opportunities. Their recommendations centered on creating stronger connections through flexible programs, scholarships, and hands-on guidance for emerging leaders. 
   
• Enhance Foundation Fundraising 
  (Robert Sherwood, CCIM; Tony Rishell, CCIM; Jessica (Johnson) Kelley, CCIM; Matin Tabbakh, CCIM; Dolly Elizondo, CCIM) 
  This group focused on strengthening the CCIM Foundation’s outreach, awareness, and fundraising impact across chapters. The group proposed a new ambassador program to better connect local chapters with the Foundation, encouraging engagement through education, scholarships, and friendly fundraising competitions. Their vision emphasized collaboration, creativity, and community-driven giving to ensure lasting support for future CCIMs. 
   
• Thriving Chapters and Districts 
  (Diana Campbell, CCIM; Michelle Casillas, CCIM; James Milner, CCIM; Chris Morris, CCIM; Deniz Senyurt, CCIM) 
  This presentation focused on building thriving chapters and districts through intentional planning and strategic management. The team introduced a comprehensive matrix addressing finance, management, programming, membership, and Institute engagement to guide chapters at any stage toward sustainable growth and success. Their approach emphasized collaboration, consistency, and connecting local chapters with global resources to maximize impact for members and the wider CCIM community. 
   
• CCIM Marketing Campaign 2.0 
  (Davis Amanyisye, CCIM; Jamie Kim, CCIM; Heather Konopka, CCIM; Blair Lee, CCIM; Michelle Shipman, CCIM) 
  This presentation explored how the Institute can strengthen brand recognition and elevate the CCIM designation through data-driven marketing and strategic storytelling. The team shared key campaign results demonstrating increased awareness, strong engagement, and measurable value for members. Their forward-looking strategy emphasized global reach, digital innovation, and empowering members to champion the CCIM brand across markets. 

The session concluded with a graduation ceremony celebrating the year-long achievements of the JWL participants. Each graduate was recognized for their commitment and growth throughout the program, with special recognition given to Tony Rishell, CCIM, recipient of the peer-nominated Susan J. Groeneveld Award of Excellence for exemplifying outstanding leadership and dedication. 

Evening Connections: Fall Forum Welcome Reception 
Day One wrapped up in style with the Welcome Reception on the JW Marriott’s stunning rooftop deck. Steve Rich, CCIM, 2025 Global President of The CCIM Institute, welcomed everyone with opening remarks that highlighted the excitement, connection, and opportunity awaiting attendees over the next few days. It was the perfect way to kick off the Forum, bringing together familiar faces and new members for an evening of conversation and anticipation. 

A Strong Start to Fall Forum 2025 
Day One set the tone for an exciting and inspiring week, offering a mix of education, leadership, exploration, and connection. From city tours and hands-on training to JWL presentations and rooftop networking, attendees got a taste of the energy, insight, and collaboration that define Fall Forum. And this was just the beginning—there’s plenty more in store over the next few days for those ready to learn, engage, and make the most of their CCIM experience.