The Real Estate Institute at SBU Hosts Successful Annual Luncheon

The Real Estate Institute (REI) at Stony Brook University successfully hosted its Annual Spring Luncheon on March 13 at the Heritage Club at Bethpage, bringing together industry experts, policymakers, and community leaders for a dynamic discussion on the challenges and opportunities in Long Island’s housing market. The event, themed “Long Island Housing Development: Challenges and Opportunities,” provided valuable insights into sustainable development solutions aimed at addressing the region’s pressing housing needs.

“This year’s luncheon showed the critical role that collaboration plays in shaping the future of housing development on Long Island,” said Robert M. Gitto, Co-Chair of the Real Estate Institute at Stony Brook University. “By bringing together key stakeholders, we can identify innovative solutions that support responsible growth while ensuring the long-term economic and social health of our communities.”

The event featured a panel discussion moderated by Kevin Law, Executive Vice President and Partner at TRITEC, who emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in tackling housing accessibility and sustainability. The panel featured distinguished speakers, including Cara Longworth, Vice President and Regional Director at Empire State Development; Anthony Bartone, Managing Partner at Terwilliger & Bartone Properties; Ralph Ekstrand, Mayor of Farmingdale; Dan Panico, Supervisor of the Town of Brookhaven; and David Pennetta, Executive Managing Director at Cushman & Wakefield Long Island. Their discussion covered the evolving needs of the region’s housing market, the economic and social impact of new developments, and strategies for sustainable growth.

“With so many factors shaping Long Island’s housing landscape, it is essential that we continue these conversations and work together to create solutions that benefit both residents and businesses,” said Kelley Coughlan Heck, Co-Chair of the Real Estate Institute at Stony Brook University. “The insights shared at this year’s luncheon will help inform policies and strategies that drive forward-thinking, community-focused development.”

The luncheon, which began with networking and a panel discussion, drew a strong turnout from local officials, business leaders, and real estate professionals. Attendees engaged in meaningful conversations about the future of Long Island’s housing landscape and the necessary steps to foster a more inclusive and accessible market.

For more information about the Real Estate Institute at Stony Brook University and upcoming events, please visit https://www.reisb.org/ or contact info@realestateinstitutesb.com.