The Runstad Advisory Board provides critical support to the Department and its students. Program curriculum is developed in close consultation with these industry leaders to make sure students are exposed to current best practices and real world problem solving. The Board regularly hosts functions to facilitate connection between students and the industry including receptions to welcome incoming students and graduating students as well as the annual Leadership Dinner that attracts 750 attendees. Board members frequently meet individually with students to provide career and internship guidance.
The Board is actively involved in raising funds for scholarships and fellowships and also supports orientation programs, student attendance at industry conferences and special programs such as the Affiliate Fellows Program. Board members have taught courses, contributed individual class sessions as guest lecturers and assist the department in recruiting affiliate instructors as needed. The Board also takes an active interest in the research of department faculty and the applied research activities of the Washington Center for Real Estate Research.