When I joined ULI in 1997, I had no idea that more than 20 years later it would continue to be an important part of my career and life experience. As anyone who has volunteered for leadership positions can attest, it’s not easy to run a business, be attentive to clients, nurture staff and dedicate time to making a difference in the industry at large – but it’s worth it and I encourage others to try it.

It’s been my pleasure to serve the 700+ members of the San Diego-Tijuana District Council as Chair for the past three years. This represents something of a capstone in my involvement in Urban Land Institute. Previously, I served as a national Product Council Chair and on the programs committee for the annual Fall and Spring Meetings. Yes, you might say I am part of the ULI fan club. But why?

First and foremost, ULI is a place to learn. What I learned made me better at business and more effective in the community. I was able to share what I learned with my co-workers, clients, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Through my ULI experience I not only made connections, I made life-long friends – in cities across country and county.

I’m proud of what we have accomplished, but we’re only getting started. ULI members are uniquely positioned to take on the challenges of our time. The need for housing, addressing climate change and the built environment, inequality, and reimagining places that don’t work anymore. The list is long, but our membership is at the top of their game, and willing to give back.

As I move on please welcome Brian Mooney, a Managing Principal at Rick Engineering, who is the incoming Chair of the San Diego-Tijuana District Council.  Brian is well equipped to lead the council – he has worn many hats in both the private and public sectors, including owning his own planning and design firm, a stint as the interim Director of Development and Planning for the City of Del Mar, as an adjunct professor at the NewSchool of Architecture and Design, and he has served on many non-profit boards.

I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event or serving on local a ULI committee!

Thank you for your help and support during the last three years,

Beth