Cushing Terrell
Young Leaders Mentorship Forum
The ULI Austin Young Leaders Mentorship Forum is a premier professional development opportunity for Young Leader members under 35. Running from September through May each year, the program offers valuable guidance, connection, and growth. Applications open annually in June—don’t miss your chance to take part!
The Mentorship Forum is designed to provide participating Young Leader members with:
- Insight into ULI’s mission in a confidential, trusted environment for open idea exchange
- A broader understanding of all facets of the real estate industry
- Meaningful connections with ULI peers and a senior-level mentor
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
MEET THE 2025-26 MENTORS
ANNUAL SCHEDULE
Monthly meetings are scheduled between September through May, consisting of small group discussions (typically over coffee or lunch) and occasional combined group events. The monthly schedule for the Mentorship Program is outlined in more detail below.
ATTENDANCE
100% attendance is expected. The members of each small group are carefully curated to ensure industry and sector diversity; consequently, it dilutes the experience for everyone if members don’t demonstrate a commitment to consistently participate. While an occasional absence may be unavoidable, reliable participation is paramount to ensuring that everyone has a meaningful exchange. Group Leaders record attendance for each meeting, and attendance is taken into consideration when determining eligibility for future admission into the program.
Because group meetings are typically held during the workday, and participation in the forum requires 100% attendance, your supervisor must acknowledge the time commitment and express company support for your active participation.
GROUP MEETINGS
The forum is organized in Small Groups of 10-12 young leader members, paired with experienced, senior-level ULI Members. The small groups meet once monthly, typically over coffee or lunch and occasionally happy hour. Dates, locations and discussion topics are decided by the group participants in collaboration with the Mentor. Meetings typically last 60-75 minutes.
Each group has a Group Leader who acts as a liaison between the Mentor and rest of the group. Being a Group Leader is a great way to develop leadership skills and forge a closer relationship with the Mentor. The responsibilities of a Group Leader include things such as assisting with group communications, setting up/managing calendar evites, tracking attendance, and ordering food for monthly group meetings. Effective Group Leaders engage the help of other group members and delegate tasks to ensure everyone plays an active role.
PARTICIPATION FEE
There is a $275 annual fee to participate in the Mentorship Forum. This fee is separate from, and in addition to, your annual ULI membership dues. The all-inclusive fee covers expenses for monthly meetings spanning September 2024 through May 2025, as well as ULI’s administrative costs for supporting the program.
QUALIFICATIONS
Applicants are selected based on the following criteria:
- ULI Member age 35 or younger* (membership must be current at the time of application)
- Thoughtful and thorough responses to the application
- Employment/engagement in the real estate industry
- Active past and current involvement in ULI programs and events
- Commitment to the time required for active involvement in the program, or demonstrated commitment to the program in years past
- Demonstrated a high standard of professional and personal integrity
*Applicants must be age 35 or younger as of the July 7, 2025 application deadline.
ULI members ages 35-45 are eligible to participate in the NEXT Leadership Initiative.
KEY DATES FOR THE 2025-26 FORUM
- September 9, 2025 – Meet Your Mentor Kickoff Social
- November 21, 2025 – Waterline Tour
- February 2026 – Mentor Panel Discussion
- May 14, 2026 – Paseo Tour
CONTACTS
Please feel free to contact any of us if you have questions about the Mentorship Forum.
YL Mentorship Forum Chair: Al Pool, Manhard Consulting
Staff Liaison: Ian Davis, ULI Austin