Being part of a community has taught me that hope for the future does not come from having all the answers. It comes from people. It comes from seeing what is possible when individuals come together with a shared purpose to uplift, support, and grow. My sense of hope has been shaped by the communities I belong to, especially through my experiences at Inspired to Live Church and through the Real Estate Exchange (REEX) program. These experiences have shown me that connection, resilience, and kindness are not just values but actions that build stronger futures. At Inspired to Live Church, I serve as the Financial Secretary. Every Wednesday and Sunday, I volunteer my time to help manage the church’s finances, track donations, pay bills, and support the budget planning process. While these tasks may seem routine, they are a vital part of helping our church continue its outreach, support local families, and run community-based programs. This work has taught me the value of consistency and quiet leadership. It reminded me that making a difference does not always mean being in the spotlight. Sometimes, it means being someone others can count on when it matters most. During the pandemic, many families in our church community struggled financially. We had to make difficult choices and stretch every dollar to keep programs running. I remember one Sunday when we organized a donation drive for families in need. I helped coordinate the budget for supplies and track the giving to ensure transparency. Despite the challenges, our small church came together to raise more than expected. It was not about the amount, it was about the generosity and unity in that moment. That experience deepened my understanding of resilience. Even when resources were low, our spirit as a community remained high. People gave what they could, offered prayers, shared time, and showed up for each other. That is what hope looks like to me. Another experience that shaped my sense of hope was participating in the REEX program three times. I worked alongside students from across the country on real commercial real estate proposals for underserved communities. We presented to city officials and professionals, receiving feedback from people who truly shape our cities. Being in those rooms, as a young Black woman, surrounded by peers equally passionate about equity and community development, reminded me that the next generation of leaders is already here. We are thoughtful, innovative, and committed to progress. It also reminded me how powerful connection can be when diverse voices are at the table and encouraged to lead. REEX taught me that finance and development are not just about buildings or balance sheets. They are about people. They are about imagining how communities can grow, heal, and thrive when given the resources and respect they deserve. This program connected me to mentors, peers, and ideas that continue to influence my academic and career goals. It reinforced my passion for using finance as a tool to build spaces that reflect the dignity and needs of the people in them. What both of these communities taught me is that kindness, connection, and resilience are not just abstract ideals. They are decisions we make every day in how we treat others, how we show up, and how we use our skills to serve. My hope for the future comes from knowing that I have been part of communities that value these things, and I carry their lessons with me in every room I enter.

In the next five years, I plan to create a positive environmental impact in both my local and global communities through the lens of finance by focusing on sustainable real estate development and responsible investment practices. As a Finance and Real Estate major at the University of Texas at Arlington, I have developed a clear vision: to use finance as a tool not only to generate long-term value but also to support environmentally conscious development that benefits people and the planet. My experience in the Real Estate Exchange (REEX) program taught me how finance can drive decisions that either harm or help our environment. Working on development proposals for real sites, I learned the importance of incorporating green building strategies, walkable infrastructure, and energy efficiency into urban planning. These were not just academic concepts. We had to justify our budgets, present real financial models, and show that sustainable choices can also make strong economic sense. I want to carry that same mindset into my career. One way I plan to make an environmental impact is by advocating for and investing in sustainable real estate projects. Whether I am managing a single rental property or leading a large-scale development, I intend to prioritize eco-friendly design, renewable energy integration, and low-impact materials. In the next five years, I plan to earn my real estate license and begin managing properties that reflect this mission, starting locally and eventually expanding into underserved communities that often lack access to green spaces and healthy housing. Finance plays a key role in making these projects feasible, and I want to help bridge the gap between environmental responsibility and financial return. Additionally, I believe public finance and impact investing can create a ripple effect beyond individual properties. I want to help direct capital toward projects and funds that prioritize environmental, social, and governance goals. Many communities, especially those that have been historically marginalized, are often left out of the benefits of sustainable development. My goal is to use my skills in finance to help design funding strategies and public-private partnerships that support climate-resilient infrastructure, community gardens, and energy-efficient housing. My work as Financial Secretary at Inspired to Live Church has already taught me how budgeting, transparency, and thoughtful spending can strengthen communities. I want to take that foundation and apply it on a larger scale, working with municipalities, nonprofits, or mission-driven firms to help fund projects that make neighborhoods healthier, greener, and more equitable. In a global context, I hope to collaborate with organizations that prioritize environmental innovation in real estate and finance. Whether that means contributing to carbon-neutral development models, supporting affordable green housing, or participating in international sustainability conferences, I want to stay engaged in global conversations that influence how cities are designed and funded. I also plan to mentor and uplift others along the way, especially young people of color who may not see themselves represented in finance or sustainability work. By sharing my journey and encouraging others to think critically about the intersection of money, impact, and the environment, I hope to build a community of changemakers who understand that financial literacy and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.

One of my greatest achievements to date has been participating in the Real Estate Exchange (REEX) program three times, representing Southern Methodist University, New York University, and the University of Miami. REEX is a nationally recognized commercial real estate program that brings together high-achieving students to tackle real-world urban development challenges. Each summer, I collaborated with a diverse team to develop a proposal for an actual site in need of transformation. We researched the community, designed thoughtful solutions, and presented our final plan to city officials, real estate professionals, and developers. Being selected multiple times for such a competitive program gave me more than just exposure to commercial real estate. It gave me confidence in my place in the industry. As a young Black woman in a field where less than 3 percent of professionals look like me, standing in front of industry leaders to present a vision for positive change was incredibly empowering. It showed me that I belong in those spaces and that my ideas can contribute to something bigger than myself. Through REEX, I learned that finance is not just about numbers. It is a tool that, when used thoughtfully, can guide responsible development, meet community needs, and create long-term, people-centered impact. I began to see how the fields of finance and real estate intersect in powerful ways to shape the physical and economic landscape of communities. This experience deepened my desire to pursue a career in commercial real estate, with a focus on finance, acquisitions, or development. I want to be part of the movement that brings equity, sustainability, and inclusivity into the built environment. This commitment to leadership and service extends beyond REEX. I currently serve as the Financial Secretary at Inspired to Live Church, where I volunteer every Wednesday and Sunday. I manage the church's finances, track donations, pay bills, and help plan the budget. Though this work happens behind the scenes, it plays a critical role in supporting our church’s mission and outreach. It has taught me how to handle financial responsibility with integrity and how meaningful leadership often involves quiet, consistent work. These combined experiences have shaped how I define leadership. To me, leadership is not about power or recognition. It is about showing up for others, building trust, and using your skills to make a difference. Whether I am presenting a development proposal, managing a church budget, or mentoring peers, I aim to lead with purpose and humility. In the future, I plan to earn my real estate license and begin managing rental properties, starting with my first home. I want to lead development projects that reflect the needs of the communities they serve, not just the demands of investors. My long-term goal is to create a real estate firm that balances profit with purpose. I hope to mentor younger students, especially those who are underrepresented in finance and real estate, and help create pipelines for success through exposure, education, and empowerment. Being selected for REEX multiple times and excelling in those environments is more than just a personal milestone. It represents a shift in what is possible, both for me and for others who look like me. It taught me that I am capable of leading, creating, and making a meaningful impact in industries where change is long overdue. That is what I carry with me into every room I enter and that is the kind of future I am working to build.

I’m Kennedy Miles, a high school graduate from Arlington Collegiate High School with a 3.8 gpa, where I also earned an associate’s degree through dual enrollment with the University of Texas at Arlington and Tarrant County College. I am currently a junior at UT Arlington. I aspire to build a career in Commercial Real Estate, with a focus on finance, acquisitions, or development. Additionally, I plan to obtain my real estate license to begin managing rental properties, starting with my first home. With a major in Finance and Real Estate, my primary goal is to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to transform communities through development that is diverse, inclusive, and sustainable. A strong foundation in finance allows me to structure robust investments, while expertise in real estate empowers me to design and develop spaces that not only generate long-term value but also uplift the people who live and work in them. This education equips me to turn vision into meaningful impact—financially, socially, and structurally. I currently serve as a Financial Secretary at Inspired to Live Church, volunteering every Wednesday and Sunday. My responsibilities include managing emails, overseeing funding and budgets, paying bills, processing checks, accounting for receipts, inputting new member information, and counting both online and in-person offerings. In addition, I’ve participated in REEX (Real Estate Exchange), a competitive real-world commercial real estate program focused on urban planning and development. Students attend classes, engage in hands-on activities, tour top commercial real estate firms, and present development proposals to actual city developers and council members. I’ve completed the program three times, proudly representing SMU, the University of Miami, and NYU. Each experience involved developing a proposal for a real site in need of transformation, with feedback and evaluation from professionals in the field. Passionate about community transformation, I aim to create inclusive developments and value learning from diverse perspectives to grow both professionally and personally. Fun fact, I love when people disagree with me! I value hearing different perspectives because it helps me grow and become more understanding. I have many lovely hobbies and interests like learning American Sign Language, dancing, singing, reading, watching movies, exercising, and going on picnics. I am in the process of learning to knit and eventually want to play piano. I am very passionate about getting out of my comfort zone and meeting new people. My current goal is to meet more like-minded people and professionals who look like me. The Commercial Real Estate industry has historically lacked diversity, with women, especially young Black African Americans, making up only about 3% of the field. The finance industry reflects a similar underrepresentation, with just 5% of African Americans. As someone pursuing a career in both industries, I believe it’s my responsibility to help shift these statistics by being both a voice and a vessel for change. I've been involved with programs like REEX (Real Estate Exchange) and ULI’s UrbanPlan because they are actively working to bridge this gap by providing exposure, mentorship, and real-world experience to minority students. These initiatives are critical in creating pipelines for young black students to thrive in CRE. This helps shift the worldly narrative and increase representation across the board. Empowering Black youth in this space doesn't just benefit the individuals but also enriches the future of real estate with broader ideas, innovation, and social impact. To inspire the next generation, I plan to share my journey, mentor younger students, and create spaces where they feel seen and supported. Representation matters, and when young people see someone who looks like them succeeding, it shows what they believe is possible!

I’m Kennedy Miles, a high school graduate from Arlington Collegiate High School with a 3.8 gpa, where I also earned an associate’s degree through dual enrollment with the University of Texas at Arlington and Tarrant County College. I am currently a junior at UT Arlington. I aspire to build a career in Commercial Real Estate, with a focus on finance, acquisitions, or development. Additionally, I plan to obtain my real estate license to begin managing rental properties, starting with my first home. With a major in Finance and Real Estate, my primary goal is to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to transform communities through development that is diverse, inclusive, and sustainable. A strong foundation in finance allows me to structure robust investments, while expertise in real estate empowers me to design and develop spaces that not only generate long-term value but also uplift the people who live and work in them. This education equips me to turn vision into meaningful impact—financially, socially, and structurally. I currently serve as a Financial Secretary at Inspired to Live Church, volunteering every Wednesday and Sunday. My responsibilities include managing emails, overseeing funding and budgets, paying bills, processing checks, accounting for receipts, inputting new member information, and counting both online and in-person offerings. In addition, I’ve participated in REEX (Real Estate Exchange), a competitive real-world commercial real estate program focused on urban planning and development. Students attend classes, engage in hands-on activities, tour top commercial real estate firms, and present development proposals to actual city developers and council members. I’ve completed the program three times, proudly representing SMU, the University of Miami, and NYU. Each experience involved developing a proposal for a real site in need of transformation, with feedback and evaluation from professionals in the field. I've also been involved in ULI (Urban Plan), which gave me insight in how important roles are and how intertwined they are. The different areas of Urban Planning have encouraged me to be involved with developing because there's always an area to specialize in. Someone who inspires me most is my father. He has always been intentional about seeking and creating opportunities—not just for himself, but for those around him. One of the most impactful lessons he taught me is the meaning of the acronym “POOR”: Passing Over Opportunities Repeatedly. That phrase has stuck with me. It reminds me to be proactive in my education, to never wait for change but to create it. As an educator himself, my father believes that his work means little if he doesn’t invest the same wisdom and encouragement into his own children. Because of him, I’ve learned the importance of "thinking critically, writing passionately, and communicating effectively". These lessons continue to shape the person I am becoming and the legacy I hope to build. My father single-handedly introduced me to real estate and urban design, and because of his influence, I am committed to investing in a future that honors his impact and builds a legacy beyond him.

I’m Kennedy Miles, a high school graduate from Arlington Collegiate High School with a 3.8 gpa, where I also earned an associate’s degree through dual enrollment with the University of Texas at Arlington and Tarrant County College. I am currently a junior at UT Arlington. I aspire to build a career in Commercial Real Estate, with a focus on finance, acquisitions, or development. Additionally, I plan to obtain my real estate license to begin managing rental properties, starting with my first home. With a major in Finance and Real Estate, my primary goal is to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to transform communities through development that is diverse, inclusive, and sustainable. A strong foundation in finance allows me to structure robust investments, while expertise in real estate empowers me to design and develop spaces that not only generate long-term value but also uplift the people who live and work in them. This education equips me to turn vision into meaningful impact—financially, socially, and structurally. I currently serve as a Financial Secretary at Inspired to Live Church, volunteering every Wednesday and Sunday. My responsibilities include managing emails, overseeing funding and budgets, paying bills, processing checks, accounting for receipts, inputting new member information, and counting both online and in-person offerings. In addition, I’ve participated in REEX (Real Estate Exchange), a competitive real-world commercial real estate program focused on urban planning and development. Students attend classes, engage in hands-on activities, tour top commercial real estate firms, and present development proposals to actual city developers and council members. I’ve completed the program three times, proudly representing SMU, the University of Miami, and NYU. Each experience involved developing a proposal for a real site in need of transformation, with feedback and evaluation from professionals in the field. Passionate about community transformation, I aim to create inclusive developments and value learning from diverse perspectives to grow both professionally and personally. Fun fact, I love when people disagree with me! I value hearing different perspectives because it helps me grow and become more understanding. I have many lovely hobbies and interests like learning American Sign Language, dancing, singing, reading, watching movies, exercising, and going on picnics. I am in the process of learning to knit and eventually want to play piano. I am very passionate about getting out of my comfort zone and meeting new people. My current goal is to meet more like-minded people and professionals who look like me. The Commercial Real Estate industry has historically been underrepresented by women, especially young black African Americans. I've been involved with programs like REEX (Real Estate Exchange) and ULI’s UrbanPlan because they are actively working to bridge this gap by providing exposure, mentorship, and real-world experience to minority students. These initiatives are critical in creating pipelines for young black students to thrive in CRE. This helps shift the worldly narrative and increase representation across the board. Empowering Black youth in this space doesn't just benefit the individuals but also enriches the future of real estate with broader ideas, innovation, and social impact.

I am Kennedy Miles born and raised from Dallas, Texas. Education has always been a cornerstone of my personal and professional growth. As a high school graduate from Arlington Collegiate High School with a 3.8 GPA, I earned an associate's degree through dual enrollment with the University of Texas at Arlington and Tarrant County College, which provided me with amazing opportunities and an invaluable head start in my academic journey. Currently, as a junior at UT Arlington pursuing a major in Finance and Real Estate, I am focused on gaining the knowledge and skills that will allow me to make a meaningful impact in the world of commercial real estate (CRE). My aspirations are to specialize in finance, acquisitions, or development and eventually manage rental properties, starting with my own home. My education equips me with the foundation needed to drive positive change through community development that is diverse, inclusive, and sustainable. With a strong grounding in finance, I can structure robust investments, and my expertise in real estate enables me to design spaces that generate long-term value and uplift communities. Education has empowered me to turn vision into actionable impact—financially, socially, and structurally. Beyond academics, I volunteer as a Financial Secretary at Inspired to Live Church, managing budgets, paying bills, and accounting for receipts, which has sharpened my financial management skills. Additionally, my involvement in REEX (Real Estate Exchange), a competitive program focused on urban planning and development, has provided me with hands-on experience in presenting development proposals and engaging with city developers and council members. Education has also broadened my perspective, allowing me to work toward creating inclusive spaces in CRE. As a Black student in an underrepresented field, I am passionate about helping bridge the diversity gap. Programs like REEX and ULI's UrbanPlan are working to provide exposure and mentorship to minority students, and I am proud to be part of these initiatives that aim to shift the narrative and increase representation of Black youth in CRE. Ultimately, education has shaped me into someone who not only values knowledge but also understands its power to transform communities and industries. It is my belief that education, combined with passion and perseverance, will allow me to contribute to a more inclusive, innovative, and impactful future in commercial real estate. As a 19-year-old, I’m still discovering who I am, but education has given me direction and confidence in my goals. It’s shown me that with the right tools and support, I can build a future that reflects both my dreams and my community’s needs.

I’m Kennedy Miles, a high school graduate from Arlington Collegiate High School with a 3.8 gpa, where I also earned an associate’s degree through dual enrollment with the University of Texas at Arlington and Tarrant County College. I am currently a junior at UT Arlington. I aspire to build a career in Commercial Real Estate, with a focus on finance, acquisitions, or development. Additionally, I plan to obtain my real estate license to begin managing rental properties, starting with my first home. With a major in Finance and Real Estate, my primary goal is to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to transform communities through development that is diverse, inclusive, and sustainable. A strong foundation in finance allows me to structure robust investments, while expertise in real estate empowers me to design and develop spaces that not only generate long-term value but also uplift the people who live and work in them. This education equips me to turn vision into meaningful impact—financially, socially, and structurally. I currently serve as a Financial Secretary at Inspired to Live Church, volunteering every Wednesday and Sunday. My responsibilities include managing emails, overseeing funding and budgets, paying bills, processing checks, accounting for receipts, inputting new member information, and counting both online and in-person offerings. In addition, I’ve participated in REEX (Real Estate Exchange), a competitive real-world commercial real estate program focused on urban planning and development. Students attend classes, engage in hands-on activities, tour top commercial real estate firms, and present development proposals to actual city developers and council members. I’ve completed the program three times, proudly representing SMU, the University of Miami, and NYU. Each experience involved developing a proposal for a real site in need of transformation, with feedback and evaluation from professionals in the field. Passionate about community transformation, I aim to create inclusive developments and value learning from diverse perspectives to grow both professionally and personally. Fun fact, I love when people disagree with me! I value hearing different perspectives because it helps me grow and become more understanding. I have many lovely hobbies and interests like learning American sign language, dancing, singing, reading, watching movies, exercising, and going on picnics. I am in the process of learning to knit and eventually want to play piano. I am very passionate about getting out of my comfort zone and meeting new people. My current goal is to meet more like minded people and professionals who look like me. The Commercial Real Estate industry has historically been underrepresented by women especially young black African Americans. I've been involved with programs like REEX (Real Estate Exchange) and ULI’s UrbanPlan because they are actively working to bridge this gap by providing exposure, mentorship, and real-world experience to minority students. These initiatives are critical in creating pipelines for young black students to thrive in CRE. This helps shift the worldly narrative and increase representation across the board. Empowering Black youth in this space doesn't just benefit the individuals but enriches the future of real estate with broader ideas, innovation, and social impact.