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REA, a national tax-credit syndicator, partners with developers and investors to create affordable housing. Its Foundation supports higher education and work experience initiatives.

    At the 2025 Real Estate Awards Banquet in Storrs, Tony Bertoldi '89, CREA's CEO, emphasized the importance of introducing students to the real estate industry. The CREA Foundation has established two renewable scholarships for UConn students majoring or minoring in real estate, providing a $10,000 award and opportunities for internships with CREA or local partners.

    The scholarship is open to rising juniors, and applications are now being accepted. The program aims to provide students with applicable experience beyond the classroom, as CEO Tony Bertoldi '89 noted, "When we're in the interview process, I look for applicable experience. It's a great advantage to have that exposure."

    CREA has successfully implemented similar programs at Indiana University and California State University, Northridge. The company's goal is to improve the pipeline of talent entering the industry. UConn's Center for Real Estate and Urban Economic Studies Director David Wharmby praised CREA's gift, saying it will expose students to a broader set of career opportunities in real estate.

    Tony Bertoldi '89, a UConn alumnus, has hired many graduates from the program and recognizes their skills and potential. He sees this scholarship as an opportunity to give back to his alma mater and provide meaningful support for future industry professionals.