J
ames T. Tarpeh II, a 1992 Morehouse alumnus, has been named Executive Director of the newly formed Real Estate Institute (MREI). The appointment, announced by Dean SherRhonda R. Gibbs, signals a strategic push to broaden Morehouse’s national footprint in real‑estate education and industry collaboration. With over two decades of experience in development, commercial banking and corporate growth, Tarpeh previously served as Real‑Estate Director at Waffle House, overseeing multi‑state projects from site selection to acquisition and aligning expansion with market demand. His banking background—specializing in capital markets, deal structuring and financial analysis—equips him to merge academic rigor with practical expertise. Returning to his alma mater, Tarpeh’s leadership is expected to deepen partnerships with developers, REITs, financial institutions and sponsors, enhance fundraising for scholarships and faculty, and expand internship and career pathways for students. Dean Gibbs praised the move as a “major step forward” and highlighted Tarpeh’s embodiment of Morehouse’s values of excellence, integrity and global perspective. The college community, alumni and industry partners are urged to welcome him, as his vision will shape a transformative future for Morehouse and the broader real‑estate ecosystem. Congratulatory messages from Ambassador Lorenzo Witherspoon and former student Thomas Spann Jr. underscore the significance of his appointment.