Foundation for the Future: Mitchell College Real Estate Program Marks Rapid Growth at Founders Circle Luncheon

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Posted on February 2, 2026 by Amanda Akey

Amanda Akey

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A new era of the Mitchell College of Business real estate program began this fall with the academic transition from a concentration to a major and the addition of program director and professor Grayson Glaze, JD, CRE, CCIM, CPM. Since arriving in August, Glaze has done more than just move into an office; he has ignited a movement. By building intentional bridges between the classroom and the Gulf Coast’s industry leaders, the program has seen an immediate impact with student enrollment more than doubling in a single semester.

One of the driving forces behind this growth has been the Founders Circle, a group of forward-thinking companies that are investing in the next generation of real estate talent. With a combined investment of $225,000 committed over the next two years, these partners are providing the resources to match the program's rapid growth. While their financial contributions are vital, Glaze emphasizes that their true value lies in the members' market expertise and their vast professional networks.

“Everything we do is about relationships,” Glaze says. “The Founders Circle creates an environment where support isn't just a financial transaction—it’s a symbiotic energy between the industry and the classroom. We are creating a master class where relationships permeate the entire room.”

On Wednesday, January 28, the Mitchell College hosted a luncheon for this special group of donors to thank them for their support. More than just expressing appreciation, it was proof of concept. Circle members had the opportunity to meet current students and hear about their experiences in the real estate program.

Regan Schrekenburg, a junior real estate major and Jaguar Real Estate Club president, said “As students we are so thankful for the support of each and every founder circle member. To be able to look out and see a room full of people that are investing in the next generation of real estate students is incredibly inspiring and it fills us with an immense sense of gratitude.”

Dr. Michael Capella, Dean of the Mitchell College, and Glaze shared the program’s wins and outlined a bold forecast for the future. Their shared vision is clear: they want the Mitchell College to be the preeminent undergraduate real estate program in the Gulf Coast Region. 

Glaze’s initial goal for the Founders Circle was met and exceeded thanks to the enthusiastic response from the local industry, fueled largely by a shared desire to mentor the next generation. “I’ve learned that most professionals would love to pour into a student; they just need an opening,” Glaze shared. “Once the gates are open, they are absolutely nonstop. They are the ones—we are the ones—who feel blessed by the exchange.”

The Mitchell College is proud to recognize the Founders Circle members. These organizations have stepped forward not only as financial supporters but as strategic partners in redefining real estate education on the Gulf Coast.

• 68 Ventures
• All-American Self-Storage
• Alton R. (Tony) Brown
• BankPlus
• B.C. Daniels
• Burr & Forman LLP
• Burton Property Group
• Butler Land and Timber Company, Inc.
• Cushman & Wakefield
• Delaney Property Group
• Herrington Realty, Inc.
• Mobile Area Association of Realtors
• Member Business Financial Services
• Merrill P. Thomas Co., Inc.
• Milling Commercial Realty, Inc.
• National Land Realty
• Omega Properties
• PenAir Credit Union
• Phelps Dunbar LLP
• Pierce, Ledyard, Johnston
• Renasant Bank
• Roberts Brothers
• Stirling Properties
• Stoic Equity Partners
• SVN Toomey Property Advisors
• TTL
• Vallas Realty
• White-Spunner Construction
• Wilkins Miller
• Zarzour Companies

If you’d like to partner with the Mitchell College of Business in building up the next generation of real estate leaders, please contact Grayson Glaze at 251-460-6710 or gglaze@southalabama.edu.

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