Gayle Starr was a Managing Director at Prologis. She retired in 2019 and still consults with Prologis on diversity issues as well as advises several real estate investment companies. She has been responsible for initiating and negotiating the corporate lines of credit as well as overseeing all non-public debt internationally and domestically for Prologis and its co-investment funds. Ms. Starr has successfully designed and originated complex finance structures across eight funds globally and has orchestrated the corporate- and property-level financing for currencies in 14 countries, as well as being responsible for over 40 lender relationships. Her previous experience in development, asset management, and acquisitions has facilitated an understanding of real estate operations. Prior to joining Prologis, Ms. Starr was a vice president for a national development company with experience in major lease negotiations, development, partnership structuring, finance, and dispositions. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of California at San Diego and a J.D. from the University of California at Davis.

Shmel C. Graham is an Associate in the Real Estate, Land Use and Natural Resources practice group  in the Los Angeles Office of Sheppard Mullin Richter and Hampton LLP where she focuses on public private partnerships and represents clients throughout California on a variety of land use issues. Prior to joining Sheppard Mullin, Ms. Graham served in the City of Los Angeles Mayor’s Office under both Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Mayor Eric Garcetti. Ms. Graham has been a featured speaker on driving innovation in local government, best practices for leveraging public-private partnerships as well as optimizing publicly-owned land to support civic and economic development initiatives. 

Mark is the Founder and CEO of Northwestern Capital Partners, LLC. NCP was founded in 2004 and Mark has since led transactions as an advisor and investor valued at collectively over $1.8 billion. Northwestern Capital Partners has advised or invested with some of the most respected investors in the US and globally, including private equity firms, venture capital enterprises, strategic investors, academic institutions, and private investors.  The company maintains long term and durable relationships with its investors, focusing on financial advisory and strategic planning.

Avivah leads the architectural practice in HOK’s Los Angeles studio. A native of Los Angeles, Avivah has more than 25 years of experience leading complex projects with diverse stakeholders in higher education, healthcare, and civic work. From strategic planning through construction, Avivah has led all phases of projects and worked with city, state, and federal jurisdictions.  Avivah’s professional work for and of the community is complemented by her active role in community service organizations. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Los Angeles ACE Mentor Program and the Santa Monica Youth Orchestra. 

Melanie’s commitment to delivering innovative design in demanding settings is evident throughout her portfolio. As a Studio Director at RIOS, she is a valuable asset to a diverse set of projects from large scale workplace projects like Sunset Las Palmas to wellness-driven oncology experiences like the University of Southern California Ellison Institute. She has over 20 years of Architecture experience. Her background includes work on residential projects and work with prominent artists on site-specific installations including the late Sol LeWitt, James Turrell, Jeff Koons, Robert Irwin, and Charles Ray.