T
wenty Newark high school students gained hands-on experience in commercial real estate through a summer internship program offered by Newmark Associates CRE in partnership with the Newark Board of Education. Under the guidance of professionals from various fields, interns explored aspects of the industry such as architecture, appraisal, and construction.

    The program was conceived by Jack Maier, Ebony Parham, Amanda Jones, and Jeannette Melillo, all Newmark Associates professionals, along with Newark Superintendent Roger León and Assistant Superintendent Maria Ortiz. Highlights included a presentation by Dana Jenkins, founder of Jenkins & Grey, who showed students how architectural design principles are applied in commercial projects.

    Other volunteer professionals shared their expertise, including Marjorie Perry from MZM Construction & Management, who introduced students to the world of construction, and Art Linfante from Integra Realty Resources, who taught them about appraisals. Students even got hands-on experience evaluating buildings for sale.

    "We're thrilled to have completed our first internship program," said Susanne Newmark, CEO of Newmark Associates. "Our goal was to inspire and educate the next generation of real estate professionals." Superintendent León praised the opportunity, saying it helped students visualize their future career possibilities.

    Newark Board of Education President Hasani K. Council congratulated the students on completing the program, thanking Newmark Associates for opening doors to new career options. The company plans to expand the program in coming years, offering more opportunities for students to explore commercial real estate.