CREW Atlanta published a timely piece titled “Navigating DEI in Commercial Real Estate: From Risk to Resilience,” authored by Hendrick’s own Stephen Wells. As Chair of the DE&I Committee, Stephen explores how the CRE industry is shifting from performative DEI efforts toward embedded structural change—using supplier diversity, leadership representation, and data-driven metrics to build resilience in a rapidly evolving external environment.
The commercial real estate (CRE) industry in the United States has long grappled with the challenge of creating inclusive and equitable spaces in the workplace. In recent years, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts have gained significant momentum. In 2025, a new chapter unfolded, defined by rising political and legal scrutiny.
This piece explores how forward-thinking CRE firms are embedding DEI into their operations in meaningful, measurable ways—and how this work continues to evolve under the weight of both opportunity and pressure.
In the wake of political pushbacks and regulatory caution, many firms are reassessing their DEI strategies. In response to external pressures, some organizations have scaled back, paused, or reframed their programs. Yet, stakeholders—from investors and employees to tenants—continue to demand commitment to DEI.
So how are CRE firms responding? The answer lies in shifting from performative actions to embedded, systemic change.
Read the full article here.
