C
hapman alumnus Alex Hayden has donated $5 million to establish a new real estate school within Argyros College of Business and Economics. The grant will enhance resources for both undergraduate and graduate real estate programs, according to Matt Lightner, assistant director of the master's program in real estate. The Alexander E. Hayden School of Real Estate will house the existing graduate program, which currently averages around 30 students.

    The new school may pave the way for a potential minor or bachelor's degree in real estate, rather than the current undergraduate emphasis within the business administration major. This could provide more access to real estate education at the undergraduate level and allow for additional faculty members to join the Argyros College.

    Hayden, a 1995 Chapman graduate and vice chairman of CBRE Group, Inc., aims to increase opportunities for students in the industry. He credits Chapman with helping him launch his successful career in real estate and wants to provide similar success for current and future students. Hayden has served on the Argyros Board of Counselors for over 16 years and played a role in developing the master's program.

    The grant is expected to benefit Chapman Real Estate Association, which has around 200 members interested in pursuing real estate. Club president Matthew Salerno believes the new school will attract more students to Chapman, citing Orange County as one of the best places to be in the real estate industry. Further decisions about the grant and the new school are being discussed by university administration.