BOSTON, MA — The Boston Real Estate Times, New England’s leading multimedia platform covering the commercial real estate industry, today announced the recipients of its prestigious 2026 Excellence Awards—a celebration of the individuals and organizations transforming the region’s built environment through innovation, leadership, and lasting impact.
This year’s honorees will be celebrated at the Annual Excellence Awards Gala on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Boston Marriott Burlington in Burlington, Massachusetts. The event, now one of New England’s premier commercial real estate gatherings, will bring together hundreds of industry leaders for an evening of recognition, networking, and celebration from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
“The 2026 recipients represent the very best of New England’s commercial real estate industry,” said Upendra Mishra, publisher of Boston Real Estate Times. “Their vision, innovation, and leadership continue to shape our communities, strengthen our economy, and inspire the next generation of industry professionals. We are proud to recognize these outstanding leaders whose work is redefining the future of commercial real estate.”
From visionary developers and architects to engineering leaders, investors, construction professionals, sustainability champions, and community builders, the 2026 Excellence Award recipients reflect the depth, diversity, and excellence of New England’s commercial real estate industry. Their achievements extend beyond buildings and developments; they create places that foster innovation, economic growth, and vibrant communities.
Each year, the Boston Real Estate Times Excellence Awards recognize individuals and organizations setting new benchmarks in development, design, construction, engineering, finance, investment, property management, and community impact. The annual gala offers a unique opportunity to celebrate excellence while bringing together leaders from across every sector of the industry.
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Here is the full list of the 2026 Excellence Award recipients:
Lifetime Achievement Award 2026
Young K. Park
Founder and President, Berkeley Investments
CEO, Berkeley Garbe
With more than three decades of visionary leadership in real estate investment, development, and urban planning, Young K. Park is the recipient of the 2026 Boston Real Estate Times Lifetime Achievement Award. As founder and president of Berkeley Investments and CEO of Berkeley Garbe, Park has built a legacy of transforming underutilized urban properties into thriving mixed-use destinations while advancing sustainable, innovation-driven development across Greater Boston.
Since founding Berkeley Investments in 1991, Park has guided the firm into one of New England’s most respected privately held real estate investment and development companies. His leadership has been instrumental in delivering projects that combine adaptive reuse, placemaking, transit-oriented development, and long-term investment strategies to strengthen neighborhoods and create enduring economic value.
Park has led the redevelopment of numerous landmark properties, including the pioneering transformation of Boston’s Fort Point neighborhood, the award-winning Waltham Watch Factory, Exchange 200 in Malden, and 64 Pleasant Street in Watertown. His projects have helped attract life science, clean technology, advanced manufacturing, and innovation companies while preserving historic buildings and creating vibrant mixed-use communities.
In 2026, Park reached another significant milestone with the formation of Berkeley Garbe, a strategic joint venture with GARBE, one of Europe’s largest real estate investment and asset management firms. The partnership expands Berkeley’s platform while preserving the entrepreneurial culture and long-term vision that have defined the company for more than 35 years.
Beyond development, Park has made significant contributions to the commercial real estate industry through civic and professional leadership. He is a former president and current board member of NAIOP Massachusetts, serves on the Executive Committee of A Better City, is a board member of Beth Israel Lahey Health, and serves on advisory committees for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Roger Williams University.
A graduate of MIT in Urban Studies and the Harvard Graduate School of Design with a Master of Architecture in Urban Design, Park has consistently demonstrated that exceptional real estate development is grounded in thoughtful planning, design excellence, and community stewardship.
The 2026 Boston Real Estate Times Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes Park’s extraordinary career, his enduring impact on Greater Boston’s built environment, and his leadership in shaping communities, fostering innovation, and advancing the commercial real estate industry throughout New England.
Architecture Firm of the Year 2026
CambridgeSeven
Timothy Mansfield
President and CEO
CambridgeSeven is honored as the 2026 Architecture Firm of the Year for its enduring legacy of design excellence, innovation, and transformative projects that have enriched communities around the world for more than six decades. Renowned for creating memorable destinations that blend architecture, planning, interiors, and experiential design, the firm has consistently delivered projects that inspire learning, discovery, and human connection.
From higher education campuses and cultural institutions to aquariums, museums, and mixed-use developments, CambridgeSeven has built an international reputation for designing spaces that are both visually compelling and deeply functional. Its collaborative, multidisciplinary approach and commitment to thoughtful, client-centered design have made the firm a trusted partner for institutions seeking architecture that creates lasting impact.
Under the leadership of President and CEO Timothy Mansfield, CambridgeSeven continues to build on its distinguished design legacy while embracing new opportunities for innovation and growth. A nationally recognized architect with more than three decades at the firm, Mansfield has led the design of landmark projects, including Northeastern University’s Roux Institute in Portland, Maine, the Kansas Aquarium, the San Francisco 49ers Museum, the Broad Discovery Center in Cambridge, and the Stevens Science and Innovation Center at Westfield State University. His leadership reflects a commitment to design excellence, mentorship, and cultivating the next generation of architects.
Assisted Living Company of the Year 2026
Northbridge Companies
Wendy Nowokunski
President and Co-Founder
Northbridge Companies is honored as the 2026 Assisted Living Company of the Year for its longstanding commitment to creating exceptional senior living communities built around compassion, connection, and quality of life. For more than three decades, the company has set a high standard for resident-centered care while developing communities that support seniors and their families throughout New England.
Founded and led by President and Co-Founder Wendy Nowokunski, Northbridge has grown into one of the region’s most respected senior living organizations, serving more than 1,500 residents and employing more than 1,500 associates across its communities. Under Nowokunski’s leadership, the company has cultivated a culture rooted in respect, integrity, engagement, and a deep commitment to creating meaningful experiences for residents and team members alike.
Throughout her career, Nowokunski has played an integral role in the development, acquisition, launch, and operations of more than 80 senior living communities spanning active adult, independent living, assisted living, memory care, and continuing care environments. Her leadership has helped shape Northbridge into an organization recognized not only for operational excellence but also for its emphasis on purpose-driven communities where residents can thrive.
Northbridge’s success reflects its ability to combine thoughtful community design with innovative programming and a personalized approach to senior care. The company’s commitment to fostering vibrant environments for residents, families, and associates has earned recognition as a leading workplace and one of the region’s most respected senior living providers.
Beyond her leadership at Northbridge, Nowokunski has been a strong advocate for the senior living industry, serving in leadership roles with organizations including the Massachusetts Assisted Living Association, Argentum, and the American Senior Housing Association.
Bank of the Year 2026
Eastern Bank
Greg Buscone
Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Banking Officer
Eastern Bank is honored as the 2026 Real Estate Bank of the Year for its outstanding commitment to supporting the region’s commercial real estate industry through deep market expertise, strategic financing solutions, and long-standing partnerships with developers, investors, and organizations throughout New England.
Founded in 1818, Eastern Bank has grown into one of Greater Boston’s leading financial institutions while maintaining a strong commitment to the communities and businesses it serves. Through its commercial real estate banking platform, the bank provides financing solutions across multifamily, office, industrial, hospitality, retail, and nonprofit development projects, helping bring important real estate initiatives from vision to completion.
Under the leadership of Greg Buscone, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Banking Officer, Eastern Bank’s commercial real estate team has continued to expand its impact across the region. Working alongside Nicholas K. Moise, Senior Vice President and Director of Commercial Real Estate Boston, and David MacManus, Senior Vice President and Commercial Real Estate Team Leader, Buscone has helped build a team recognized for its relationship-driven approach, industry knowledge, and ability to deliver customized financing solutions in a constantly evolving market.
Recent transactions highlight Eastern Bank’s expertise in supporting transformative projects, including $31 million in construction financing for Alta Altitude, a 214-unit luxury multifamily development by Wood Partners in Warwick, Rhode Island, and a $20.75 million tax-exempt bond financing partnership with MassDevelopment for the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s expansion and redevelopment project in Boston’s South End.
Beyond individual transactions, Eastern Bank’s real estate banking team has established itself as a trusted partner by combining local market insight with the financial strength and resources needed to support complex developments and community-focused initiatives.
The 2026 Real Estate Bank of the Year award recognizes Eastern Bank’s leadership in commercial real estate finance, its commitment to advancing growth throughout New England, and the expertise of its team in helping shape the region’s evolving built environment.
Commercial Brokerage Firm of the Year 2026
CRESA
Adam Subber
Executive Managing
Principal
Dan Sullivan
Executive Managing Principal
Cresa is honored as the 2026 Commercial Brokerage Firm of the Year for its unwavering commitment to client advocacy, market expertise, and excellence in occupier-focused real estate advisory services. As the world’s largest commercial real estate firm dedicated exclusively to representing tenants and occupiers, Cresa has built a reputation for helping organizations make strategic real estate decisions that drive business performance, operational efficiency, and long-term value.
The firm’s Boston office has advised organizations across a wide range of industries on complex lease negotiations, headquarters relocations, portfolio optimization, build-to-suit developments, and workplace strategy. By aligning real estate decisions with business objectives, Cresa continues to deliver innovative solutions that help clients navigate an increasingly dynamic commercial real estate market.
Under the leadership of Executive Managing Principals Adam Subber and Dan Sullivan, Cresa’s Boston office has strengthened its position as one of New England’s premier tenant representation and advisory firms. Together, they bring decades of market knowledge and strategic leadership, guiding clients through sophisticated transactions while fostering a culture centered on collaboration, integrity, and exceptional client service. Their leadership has helped expand the firm’s impact across Greater Boston while reinforcing Cresa’s mission of putting occupiers’ interests first.
Construction Firm of the Year 2026
Corderman & Company
David M. Corderman, Jr.
Founder / Principal
Corderman & Company is honored as the 2026 Construction Firm of the Year for its exceptional commitment to client service, craftsmanship, and collaborative project delivery. Since its founding in 2002, the Boston-based construction management firm has built a reputation for bringing a relationship-driven approach to an industry where trust, communication, and accountability are essential to success.
Founded by David M. Corderman, Jr., the firm has grown into one of New England’s most respected construction management companies, delivering complex commercial projects while remaining grounded in the values that define its culture: loyalty, integrity, transparency, and a commitment to exceeding client expectations.
Over the past two decades, Corderman & Company has successfully built millions of square feet across corporate, life sciences, hospitality, cultural, and institutional markets. Recent projects highlight the firm’s ability to execute highly detailed and complex environments, including the new health and wellness center at South Station Tower, a luxury amenity space designed to enhance the tenant experience at one of Boston’s most significant mixed-use developments; the comprehensive renovation of the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport, which preserved the character of an iconic cultural venue while enhancing the experience for performers and audiences; and the new McCarter & English Boston office at One International Place, a sophisticated workplace buildout reflecting the evolving needs of a leading law firm.
Under Corderman’s leadership, the company has distinguished itself through hands-on project management, skilled craftsmanship, innovative solutions, and long-standing partnerships with clients, architects, and trade partners. His focus on building trust and delivering an exceptional project experience has helped establish Corderman & Company as a preferred construction partner throughout Greater Boston and New England.
Engineering Firm of the Year 2026
Vanderweil Engineers
Alex Vanderweil
Shelley Vanderweil
Presidents
Vanderweil Engineers is honored as the 2026 Engineering Firm of the Year for its enduring commitment to engineering excellence, technical innovation, and sustainable building design. For more than 75 years, the firm has delivered integrated engineering solutions that have shaped landmark projects across the United States. Specializing in MEP/FP engineering, technology design, sustainability consulting, commissioning, and power engineering, Vanderweil has earned a national reputation for solving complex challenges while creating high-performing buildings that enhance both occupant well-being and environmental stewardship.
Under the leadership of Presidents Alex Vanderweil and Shelley Vanderweil, Vanderweil continues to build upon its legacy as one of the nation’s leading independent engineering firms. Both accomplished professional engineers who joined the company in 2002, Alex and Shelley combine deep technical expertise with a collaborative leadership style that emphasizes innovation, operational excellence, and long-term client partnerships. Together, they guide the firm’s strategic direction while preserving the values and culture that have defined Vanderweil for generations.
With more than 500 professionals serving clients from offices across the country, Vanderweil delivers multidisciplinary engineering services across a diverse range of markets and project types. The firm’s integrated approach enables clients to benefit from seamless coordination between engineering disciplines, resulting in efficient, resilient, and sustainable solutions for some of the industry’s most technically demanding developments.
A hallmark of Vanderweil’s success is its investment in its people. Nearly one-third of the firm’s professionals have been with the company for more than a decade, with many serving for over 20 years. This exceptional staff longevity reflects a culture built on mentorship, collaboration, and continuous professional development. By pairing seasoned industry leaders with emerging engineers, Vanderweil fosters an environment where knowledge is shared across generations, ensuring technical excellence and consistent client service on every project.
As one of the country’s largest independent engineering firms, Vanderweil remains committed to maintaining the accessibility, responsiveness, and entrepreneurial spirit that have distinguished the company throughout its history. Its independence enables leadership to make long-term decisions that prioritize client relationships, employee development, and engineering quality, reinforcing the firm’s reputation as a trusted advisor on complex building systems and infrastructure projects.
Investment Firm of the Year 2026
DivcoWest
Mark Roopenian
Managing Director
DivcoWest is honored as the 2026 Investment Firm of the Year for its exceptional ability to identify, acquire, develop, and manage transformative real estate investments that drive long-term value while shaping some of the nation’s leading innovation markets. Founded in 1993 by Stuart Shiff, DivcoWest, a DivCore Capital company, has built a reputation for combining entrepreneurial vision with institutional discipline, creating dynamic commercial environments that inspire innovation, support economic growth, and enhance health and well-being.
Under the leadership of Cambridge Office Managing Director Mark Roopenian, DivcoWest has continued to strengthen its presence throughout Greater Boston while advancing one of the region’s most significant mixed-use developments, Cambridge Crossing. Roopenian plays an integral role in the strategic planning, development, permitting, and community engagement efforts that have helped establish Cambridge Crossing as a premier destination for life science, technology, and commercial investment. His collaborative leadership and more than three decades of experience in development and asset management have contributed significantly to DivcoWest’s continued success in one of the country’s most competitive real estate markets.
Since its inception, DivcoWest and its predecessor have acquired approximately 66.9 million square feet of commercial real estate across the United States, building a diversified portfolio spanning office, research and development, laboratory, industrial, retail, and multifamily properties. The firm’s vertically integrated platform enables it to execute every stage of the investment lifecycle—from acquisition and development through asset management—while maintaining a disciplined, long-term investment strategy across the risk spectrum.
DivcoWest’s continued investment in premier innovation markets has positioned the firm as a trusted partner for institutional investors, municipalities, and industry-leading companies seeking thoughtfully designed, high-performing real estate. Its ability to identify emerging opportunities, execute complex developments, and foster meaningful relationships with local communities has distinguished the firm as one of the industry’s most respected investment organizations.
Beyond its investment performance, DivcoWest is committed to creating places that have a lasting positive impact on the communities they serve. Roopenian reflects that commitment through his leadership within numerous Cambridge-based charitable and civic organizations, including CASPAR, Cambridge Family & Children Services, East End House, and the Kendall Square Association Board of Directors, reinforcing the firm’s dedication to responsible development and community partnership.
Real Estate Law Firm of the Year 2026
Sherin and Lodgen LLP
Carla M. Moynihan
Partner, Real Estate Department Chair
Sherin and Lodgen LLP is honored as the 2026 Real Estate Law Firm of the Year for its longstanding commitment to delivering exceptional legal counsel across every stage of the commercial real estate lifecycle. Recognized as one of New England’s premier real estate law practices, the firm has built a reputation for providing sophisticated legal guidance, practical business solutions, and trusted counsel to developers, owners, investors, lenders, institutions, municipalities, and public agencies involved in some of the region’s most significant real estate transactions.
Under the leadership of Real Estate Department Chair Carla M. Moynihan, Sherin and Lodgen continues to strengthen its position as a trusted legal advisor in an increasingly complex real estate environment. With more than 30 years of transactional experience, Moynihan advises clients on acquisitions, dispositions, financing, development, permitting, construction, and complex commercial transactions across office, laboratory, retail, hospitality, multifamily, and industrial properties. Her strategic approach and deep understanding of both legal and business considerations have helped clients successfully navigate projects of every scale while advancing the firm’s reputation for excellence.
Sherin and Lodgen’s real estate practice is among the most comprehensive in New England, offering clients a full spectrum of legal services spanning acquisitions and dispositions, development, land use planning and permitting, public-private partnerships, commercial leasing, title review, construction and design contracts, ground and air rights, and sophisticated financing transactions, including commercial real estate and CMBS financings. The firm’s multidisciplinary approach allows attorneys to anticipate challenges, develop practical solutions, and provide seamless representation throughout every phase of a transaction.
Beyond transactional expertise, the firm is widely recognized for its ability to guide clients through complex regulatory and permitting processes at the federal, state, and local levels. Moynihan’s extensive experience navigating agencies including the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act process, the Massachusetts Historical Commission, the Boston Board of Appeal, and the Boston Planning and Development Agency has made her a trusted advisor on projects requiring intricate governmental approvals and stakeholder coordination.
Sherin and Lodgen’s commitment to excellence extends beyond client service through its leadership within the legal and real estate communities. Moynihan is a frequent speaker on commercial real estate matters and has shared her expertise as a former adjunct faculty member at Boston University School of Law, reflecting the firm’s dedication to advancing the profession while mentoring the next generation of real estate attorneys.
Non-Profit Real Estate Project of the Year 2026
La CASA: The Center for Arts, Self-determination, and Activism
Owner: Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción (IBA)
Architect: Studio ENEE and Annum Architects
Construction Manager: D.F. Pray General Contractors
La CASA: The Center for Arts, Self-determination, and Activism is honored as the 2026 Non-Profit Real Estate Project of the Year for its transformative role in advancing cultural preservation, community empowerment, and inclusive development in Boston’s historic South End neighborhood.
Developed by Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción (IBA), a nationally recognized community development corporation dedicated to affordable housing, education, and economic mobility, La CASA represents decades of community advocacy and a bold vision for preserving cultural identity while creating a new gathering place for generations to come. The $33 million, 26,435-square-foot facility is the first purpose-built center of its kind in New England dedicated to Latino arts, culture, activism, and community engagement.
Designed by Studio ENEE and Annum Architects, La CASA thoughtfully balances contemporary architecture with the historic character of the Villa Victoria neighborhood. The building incorporates traditional materials such as brick and terra cotta while introducing modern elements that create openness, accessibility, and connection. A two-story performance and community space serves as the heart of the building, opening directly to O’Day Playground through a dramatic indoor-outdoor connection that expands opportunities for cultural programming and neighborhood events.
D.F. Pray General Contractors, led by President Scott W. Pray, played a critical role in bringing the vision to reality through a collaborative construction process that emphasized quality, communication, and community involvement. Throughout the project, D.F. Pray supported IBA’s engagement efforts through community tours, milestone celebrations, and partnerships that helped connect residents with the transformation taking place in their neighborhood.
More than a building, La CASA represents the power of community-driven real estate development. It provides a home for arts, education, family services, celebrations, and civic engagement while reinforcing the importance of cultural permanence in a changing urban landscape.
The 2026 Non-Profit Real Estate Project of the Year award recognizes IBA, Studio ENEE and Annum Architects, and D.F. Pray General Contractors for creating a landmark project that demonstrates how thoughtful design, collaboration, and community leadership can shape a more inclusive future.
Organization of the Year 2026
Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts (AGC MA)
John Ferrante
CEO
The Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts (AGC MA) is honored as the 2026 Organization of the Year for its century-long leadership in advancing the construction industry, supporting its members, and strengthening the workforce that builds Massachusetts’ future. Since its founding, AGC MA has served as a vital resource for contractors, industry professionals, and communities by promoting collaboration, education, safety, and best practices across the construction sector.
Chartered as a state chapter in 1924 and incorporated in Massachusetts in 1935, AGC MA has represented the interests of the construction industry for more than 100 years. Today, the organization supports more than 200 open shop and union members across Massachusetts, providing advocacy, training, workforce development programs, and resources designed to help companies navigate an increasingly complex construction environment.
Under the leadership of CEO John Ferrante, AGC MA has continued to address some of the industry’s most pressing challenges, including labor shortages, regulatory changes, rising costs, and evolving project demands. Through its focus on workforce development, safety initiatives, professional education, and industry advocacy, the organization is helping contractors build stronger companies while creating new pathways for the next generation of construction professionals.
The 2026 Organization of the Year award recognizes AGC MA’s enduring leadership, its commitment to advancing the construction profession, and its continued work to shape the future of building in Massachusetts.
Preservation Award of the Year 2026
Boston Landmarks Commission
John Freeman
Principal, Platt Anderson Freeman Architects
The Boston Landmarks Commission is honored with the 2026 Preservation Award of the Year for its five decades of leadership in protecting Boston’s historic character, architectural heritage, and cultural identity. As part of this recognition, John Freeman, Principal of Platt Anderson Freeman Architects, is recognized for his distinguished contributions as an architect, preservation advocate, and longtime member of the Commission.
Established in 1975, the Boston Landmarks Commission has played a vital role in safeguarding the city’s historic areas, sites, and structures while helping guide thoughtful growth and adaptation. Through design review, community engagement, and collaboration with property owners, architects, and residents, the Commission has helped ensure that Boston’s neighborhoods continue to evolve while preserving the historic elements that define the city.
For 50 years, the Commission’s dedicated members and staff have worked to protect Boston’s architectural legacy, from historic landmarks and districts to significant cultural sites that reflect the city’s diverse history. Its work has helped balance preservation with the needs of a growing and changing urban environment.
John Freeman has been an integral part of this mission through his service on the Boston Landmarks Commission and his professional work at Platt Anderson Freeman Architects. Throughout his career, Freeman has demonstrated a deep commitment to preservation, adaptive reuse, and thoughtful design, helping ensure that historic buildings remain vibrant, functional, and connected to future generations.
Freeman’s architectural expertise and civic leadership represent the collaborative spirit at the heart of preservation—bringing together architects, communities, and public institutions to protect the places that tell Boston’s story.
The 2026 Preservation Award of the Year recognizes the Boston Landmarks Commission and John Freeman for their enduring dedication to preserving Boston’s architectural heritage and shaping a future where historic places continue to inspire and serve the community.
Property Management Company of the Year 2026
Corcoran Management Company
Bob Ruzzo
Executive Vice President
Corcoran Management Company (CMC) is honored as the 2026 Property Management Company of the Year for its exceptional ability to create thriving residential communities, deliver operational excellence, and build lasting partnerships with residents, owners, and industry stakeholders. As the management arm of John M. Corcoran & Co., one of New England’s leading residential development and property management firms, CMC brings more than seven decades of experience and a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and service.
Under the leadership of Executive Vice President Bob Ruzzo, CMC has expanded its management platform while maintaining a strong focus on resident satisfaction, property performance, and long-term value creation. As the company’s primary business leader for property management operations, Ruzzo oversees portfolio strategy, growth initiatives, and operational performance, helping position CMC as one of the region’s most trusted residential management organizations.
CMC experienced significant growth in 2025, adding more than 1,500 apartments under new management agreements and expanding its presence through new assignments and ownership partnerships. The company’s ability to earn the confidence of new and existing clients reflects its reputation for effective operations, responsive service, and expert stewardship across market-rate, affordable, and workforce housing communities.
Recent achievements highlight CMC’s expertise in managing complex residential environments, including the successful lease-up of DUO Apartments in Chelsea, a transformative 330-unit mixed-income community recognized with NAIOP’s Urban Development Project of the Year Award and CoStar’s National Impact Award. The company also led the lease-up of The Devon at Weiss Farm in Stoneham, which received a Gold Prism Award for Best Clubhouse from the Building Owners and Managers Association.
Beyond property operations, CMC has developed a resident-focused approach centered on engagement, community building, and responsive service. Through proactive maintenance programs, resident programming, charitable initiatives, and continuous feedback efforts, the company creates communities where residents feel connected and supported.
