I am proud to present ULI’s annual report for fiscal year 2020. Titled Successfully Navigating a Rapidly Changing World, the report showcases the important work and impact of the Institute during a period of unprecedented challenges.
Over the past year, we have all adapted to handling the threats of the COVID-19 pandemic, traversed uncertain economic and market conditions, and come to terms with working in dispersed teams in a virtual world. I have personally found it invaluable to connect with ULI members and inspiring to hear how other people are overcoming obstacles and planning for the future. It is during these more difficult times that the relationships and shared knowledge we have all developed with fellow members, have proved their most valuable.
The global pandemic has been a timely reminder of how interconnected we all are. As an Institute we are well equipped to enable the sharing of best practices around the world and to find new solutions to the real estate challenges we face. Our Global Strategic Plan investments have enabled us to connect members and deliver our events and programs digitally, with the resulting discussions and information shared with the broader membership through the award-winning Knowledge Finder.
While I know we will all be contending with the impact of COVID-19 for some time to come, it is important that we do not lose sight of the longer-term challenges facing our communities. Issues such as climate change, housing affordability and social equity are all areas where we can work together as members to shape the future and bring about transformational change in our communities. I am pleased to say that our centers, initiatives and programs made strong progress over the past year in providing thought leadership and developing tools to help address these pressing issues, the details of many of which are included in this report.
While the time and talent of our members is vital in delivering on our mission, we rely on your generous philanthropic support to maximize the impact we make. This year marked the 50th anniversary of the ULI Foundation, which to date has raised over $136.5 million to fund mission-driven programs. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed to the ULI Foundation over the years – your commitment has made a meaningful difference to many communities around the world. In the years ahead, we intend to intensify our efforts to generate philanthropic support, which will enable us to expand our educational programs, conduct more research on critical industry issues and fund Advisory Services panels to solve pressing community challenges.
I hope you find this year’s report informative and useful, and that it will inspire you to become more engaged with ULI and our programs.
Owen D. Thomas
ULI Global Chairman