Commercial Real Estate Summit Foundation
Established in 2015, the CRE Summit Foundation was created to provide a space where professionals from all sectors of the commercial real estate industry can gather, exchange ideas, assess industry trends, and explore opportunities for growth—all within a single annual event.
The Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Summit™
Jointly produced by the CRE Summit Foundation™ and the University of Central Oklahoma Real Estate Program, the CRE Summit™ is an annual, educational, and non-political event centered on three key objectives:
1. Uniting the Real Estate Industry
1. Uniting the Real Estate Industry
The CRE Summit™ brings together professionals from across the real estate spectrum—including developers, investors, brokers, lenders, planners, and government officials—for a day of continuing education (CE), networking, and industry-wide discussions on shared challenges and opportunities.
2. Recognizing Industry Leaders
The event also serves as a platform to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the commercial real estate industry. The Pivot Award™ recognizes visionaries whose work has shaped and advanced the field. The Summit fosters meaningful conversations between key stakeholders, focusing on deal-making and forward-thinking strategies.
3. Advancing Real Estate Education & Student Networking
A core mission of the CRE Summit™ is to support and promote education within the profession. Proceeds from the event help fund scholarships and grants for students and faculty in the University of Central Oklahoma Real Estate Program. Additionally, the event provides valuable networking opportunities for students, connecting them with industry leaders, potential mentors, and future employers.
The CRE Summit™ is more than just a conference—it’s a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and progress in the commercial real estate industry.
2025 Board of Directors
Andrea Frymire, CCIM, MHEG
Bart Binning, Commercial Development, LLC
Brad Willis, First Fidelity Bank (Board President)
David Chapman, Ph.D., UCO
Matt Holder, OREC
Jack Werner, Ph.D., A to Z Inspections
What People Say
“What has set my company apart and defined my friends and colleagues is continuous learning…..always seeking to be a little better, to learn a little more.
The Commercial Real Estate Summit provides the most comprehensive multi-option learning opportunity that I have seen.”
Jack Werner, Ph.D.,
Owner, A to Z Inspections
“I had the privilege of attending the CRE Summit last year, which was held at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, OK. The Summit was well-organized and the venue itself was a professional atmosphere that fostered a conducive learning environment.
The range of topics covered was extensive, touching on crucial aspects of commercial real estate investment, development, market trends and sustainable practices. The speakers’ expertise and passion for their respective fields were evident, and their presentations were filled with practical advice and actionable strategies.
In addition to the exceptional content, the Summit’s organization was great. The event ran smoothly, with well-timed breaks and networking opportunities that allowed further interaction and knowledge sharing. The staff and volunteers were friendly, helpful and always ready to assist with any inquiries or concerns.”
Ethan Slavin, Managing Partner
Creek CRE
David Chapman, a co-Founder of the Summit and Professor at UCO, expressed his excitement about the event, stating, “The Commercial Real Estate Summit once again delivers first-class speakers and relevant topics for our annual event.
Our industry greatly benefits from this type of gathering, as it allows us to build relationships and break out of professional silos.
Understanding the challenges across all areas of the real estate field makes us stronger.”
Dr. David Chapman, Ph.D.,
UCO School of Real Estate
Commercial Real Estate Summit Foundation 