New Leadership Appointed for Runstad Department of Real Estate

The College of Built Environments (CBE) is pleased to announce the appointments of Assistant Teaching Professor Shannon Affholter and Associate Professor Rebecca Walter as Co-Chairs for the Runstad Department of Real Estate.

Together, Professors Affholter and Walter will lead the department in advancing its educational programs and fostering strong connections between the department, the college, and the professional real estate community. Their combined leadership will ensure the continued growth and success of the department’s undergraduate and graduate offerings, while strengthening its impact within both academic and industry spheres.

“We are excited to lead the department and work collaboratively to further its mission,” said Professor Affholter. “Together, we will continue to strengthen the department’s academic excellence and its connections with the professional community.”

“We look forward to advancing the department’s strategic goals and ensuring that our students have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed in the real estate field,” said Professor Walter.

In addition to Professors Affholter and Walter, leadership of the Runstad Department of Real Estate also includes Arthur Acolin, Director of Undergraduate Programs, and Gregg Colburn, Director of Graduate Programs. Their leadership will further enrich the department’s offerings and contribute to the success of its students at every level.

We would also like to acknowledge the contributions of Professor Steven Bourassa, who has served as Chair of the department for several years. Professor Bourassa is retiring from his faculty position at the University of Washington but will continue his involvement with the department as the Director of the Washington Center for Real Estate Research.

Please join us in welcoming Professors Affholter and Walter to their new leadership roles and thanking Professor Bourassa for his service to the department.