NAIOP, Prologis announce 2025 Inclusion in CRE scholarship winners, two from Arizona selected

Cassie Van Ess (left) and Katie Hillow (right) are recipients of the NAIOP and Prologis Inclusion CRE Scholarship 

PHOENIX, ARIZ. (March 26, 2025) – Fifteen individuals have been selected as the recipients of the annual NAIOP and Prologis Inclusion in CRE Scholarship for Young Professionals.

Two NAIOP Arizona members were among the scholarship recipients: Cassie Van Ess, Business Development, Wespac Construction, Inc., and Katie Hillowe, Senior Associate, Trammell Crow Company.

Now in its eighth year, the program is designed to prepare a pipeline of diverse talent for development and operations positions in commercial real estate by connecting young professionals with mentors and advancing their industry knowledge.

“The NAIOP and Prologis Inclusion in CRE Scholarship complements our local efforts to foster diverse talent and ensure a strong future for our industry. We are proud to see Cassie Van Ess and Katie Hillowe representing NAIOP Arizona among this year’s scholarship recipients,” said NAIOP Arizona President and CEO, Suzanne Kinney

As part of the program, each of the recipients will have the opportunity to earn the NAIOP Certificate of Advanced Study in Commercial Real Estate Development, delivered through courses in NAIOP’s Center for Education, at no cost. This comprehensive program is built on core competencies critical to success in the development industry.

“Cultivating talent is critical to the long-term success of the commercial real estate industry and remains one of NAIOP’s key priorities,” said NAIOP President and CEO Marc Selvitelli, CAE. “We are honored to acknowledge these exceptional professionals with scholarships and unique mentorship opportunities through our partnership with Prologis as they build their careers.”

Van Ess and Hillowe will be recognized at I.CON West, March 26-27, in Los Angeles, where they will connect with industry mentors and hear insights from industrial real estate leaders from across North America.

“At Prologis, our success comes from the different perspectives and backgrounds our people bring to the table,” said Megan Creecy-Herman, President, West Region, Prologis. “Supporting this program is another way to strengthen our industry – by opening our doors to a broader range of backgrounds, skills and viewpoints.”