A Year of Insight, Connection, and Momentum in South Jersey CRE
As we look back on 2025, Businesses Committed to South Jersey (BCSJ) reflects on a year defined by meaningful conversations, high-caliber speakers, and a strong sense of community across the South Jersey commercial real estate landscape. From economic outlooks and industry panels to networking events and member celebrations, BCSJ delivered a dynamic calendar designed to inform, connect, and elevate CRE professionals throughout the region.
For our members, 2025 reinforced the value of staying engaged and connected. For prospective members, it offered a glimpse into the access, insights, and relationships that make BCSJ membership so impactful.
Kicking Off the Year with Economic Insight
BCSJ opened 2025 with a January Economic Outlook Luncheon featuring Dr. Carter W. Murdoch, Executive Director of the Wilbur C. Henderson Real Estate Institute at Drexel University. His thoughtful analysis of the 2025 economic landscape sparked lively discussion and underscored the importance of shared insight in navigating an evolving market. The strong turnout, welcoming both new and returning faces, set the tone for a collaborative year ahead.
Deep Dives into Market Trends and Innovation
In February, BCSJ partnered once again with Mid Atlantic Real Estate Journal (MAREJ) to host the 2nd Annual South Jersey CRE Forecast & State of the Market Breakfast. This well-attended event brought together industry leaders to explore emerging trends across industrial, office, retail, and self-storage sectors, along with the growing influence of AI in the CRE workspace. Featuring expert perspectives from eMazzanti Technologies, PREIT, CBRE, Duane Morris LLP, Marathon Engineering & Environmental Services, and more, the program delivered actionable insights and robust peer exchange.
March continued the momentum with a timely discussion on Banking & the Economy, moderated by Kristin Worrell of Hillman Consulting and featuring Rob Curley, Regional President of TD Bank. Topics ranged from interest rate volatility and CRE financing to cybersecurity, talent acquisition, and AI’s role in banking—equipping attendees with practical knowledge in a shifting financial environment.
Industry Leadership and Local Development
April’s State of Housing Luncheon welcomed Jonathan Davern, Mid-Atlantic Region Vice President of D.R. Horton, the nation’s largest homebuilder. Attendees gained insight into housing demand, construction challenges, workforce trends, and what lies ahead for South Jersey development. The event highlighted BCSJ’s commitment to bringing national-level expertise to local conversations that matter.
Building Relationships Beyond the Boardroom
Spring and early summer featured BCSJ’s popular happy hours, blending business development with relationship-building. Events at LaScala’s Fire in Marlton and the Moorestown Field Club provided relaxed settings for members and guests to connect, collaborate, and strengthen professional ties, proving that some of the most productive conversations happen outside formal presentations.
In August 2025, BCSJ proudly launched a brand new website, www.bcsjonline.com, enhancing the member experience with easier access to events, resources, and information about membership benefits. The new platform reflects the organization’s growth and its continued focus on visibility, engagement, and community connection.
Fall Programming with Impactful Voices
BCSJ returned strong in September with a Networking Luncheon featuring New Jersey Senator Troy Singleton, who shared updates on legislation and issues impacting South Jersey’s business and commercial real estate community. The event underscored BCSJ’s role as a forum for meaningful dialogue between industry professionals and public leaders.
October’s luncheon featured Michelle Sparrow, CEO and co-founder of Little Brown Bird Foods, who shared her inspiring South Jersey business growth story, from launching Sparrow’s retail shops during the pandemic to expanding into manufacturing. Her candid discussion resonated with attendees and reinforced the value of learning from local leaders who are building successful enterprises in our region.
Celebrating Community and Member Appreciation
November brought a Member Appreciation Happy Hour, where connections turned into conversations and relationships continued to grow. These gatherings remain a cornerstone of BCSJ’s mission—creating space where introductions lead to opportunities and collaboration drives results. The year concluded with our sold-out, Members-Only Holiday Party at Fleming’s in Marlton. This festive evening was a celebration of everything that makes BCSJ special: engaged members, strong relationships, and a shared commitment to South Jersey’s commercial real estate community.
Looking Ahead to 2026
BCSJ enters 2026 with excitement and momentum, welcoming new leadership with President Jackie Mierkowski and Vice President Gabrielle Leonetti, and kicking off the year with a January 14 Economic Outlook Luncheon featuring Ryotaro Tashiro, Outreach Economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.
As we look ahead, one thing is clear: BCSJ continues to be a place where insight meets opportunity, and where professionals come together to shape the future of South Jersey CRE.
Thank you!
Thank you to our members, speakers, sponsors, and supporters for making 2025 a year to remember. We look forward to welcoming new members and building an even more productive 2026—together.
BCSJ’s impactful 2025 programming would not be possible without the dedication of our volunteer Board of Directors, who generously contribute their time, expertise, and industry relationships to curate meaningful events and secure high-caliber speakers and panelists. Their commitment ensures that each BCSJ gathering delivers real value—thoughtful discussion, relevant insight, and opportunities for lasting professional connections.
Join the BCSJ Community for 2026
As we look ahead to 2026, we invite professionals across the South Jersey commercial real estate community to join us. Membership with BCSJ offers access to timely insights, influential voices, and a trusted network of peers who are shaping the region’s future. If you missed the conversations, connections, and opportunities of 2025, now is the time to be part of what’s next.
