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Denise Akason

Chief Operating Officer at Treatment Magazine

Professional Background

Denise Akason is a multifaceted professional who has made significant contributions in both the addiction treatment sector and the field of real estate education. As the Chief Operating Officer at Treatment Magazine, Denise is passionate about making an impactful difference in the addiction treatment space. She is dedicated to providing valuable insights and information that promote recovery and support for individuals facing addiction challenges.

With over 20 years of hands-on experience in the commercial real estate industry, Denise possesses a wealth of knowledge that she brings into her role as a faculty member at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. Her industry experience is complemented by an impressive academic background, having obtained an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Northwestern University, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Psychology from the University of Michigan.

Denise’s commitment to education is evident from her extensive experience in teaching courses that cover critical topics such as sustainable real estate development and real estate finance. During her time at Kellogg, she has developed and taught various lab courses focusing on real estate finance, development, and investment, as well as incorporating elements of real estate technology into her curriculum.

Education and Achievements

Denise's educational journey laid a solid foundation for her future endeavors. Her time at Northwestern University, where she earned her MBA, equipped her with essential skills in finance and marketing, which proved invaluable in her career. Furthermore, her undergraduate education at the University of Michigan gave her vital insights into economic principles and human behavior, which are critical components of the real estate sector.

As a respected educator, Denise has authored several case studies in real estate finance, development, and investment. These case studies have been included in prestigious collections at both Kellogg and Harvard, reflecting her dedication to academic excellence and her contributions to the field. Additionally, her role in creating and maintaining a 23-person Advisory Board composed of C-level real estate professionals showcases her leadership skills and commitment to fostering connections between academia and industry.

Denise has also successfully raised significant funding for the Kellogg Real Estate Center, which has allowed for the advancement of educational programs and resources available for students. She played an instrumental role in establishing and executing the International Real Estate Venture Competition from 2014-2019, providing students with opportunities to innovate and compete in real estate ventures on a global scale.

Achievements

Real Estate Expertise

Denise Akason's extensive background in real estate finance, leasing, lending, distressed properties, and litigation sets her apart as a knowledgeable expert in the field. Her previous positions, including her role as Managing Director at CNS Real Estate and Litigation Consulting at Arthur Andersen/Coopers and Lybrand, have equipped her with a strong grasp of various industry facets.

Commitment to Education

Denise's dedication to teaching is further demonstrated by her past roles as an Adjunct Lecturer and Associate Director at the Real Estate Center at Kellogg. Her passion for sharing knowledge with the next generation of real estate professionals is evident through her engaging teaching style and the diverse subjects she covers.

Transformative Leadership

As a leader and educator, Denise’s proactive approach in recruiting and maintaining a diverse advisory board of industry professionals not only enhances the educational experience for her students but also fosters an invaluable network for collaboration and mentorship in the real estate community.

Denise Akason is a committed professional whose impact resonates at multiple levels—from the classroom to the broader real estate community and the vital field of addiction treatment. Her unique blend of expertise in real estate and passion for making a difference continues to inspire those around her.

Highlights

Flat housing market hits brokerage sales volumes - Crain's Chicago Business
Flat housing market hits brokerage sales volumes - Crain's Chicago Business
Flat housing market hits brokerage sales volumes - Crain's Chicago Business

Related Questions

What motivated Denise Akason to transition from real estate to the addiction treatment sector?
How has Denise Akason's experience in commercial real estate influenced her teaching at Kellogg School of Management?
What impact does Denise Akason aim to achieve through her work with Treatment Magazine?
How did Denise Akason manage to develop and execute the International Real Estate Venture Competition?
In what ways has Denise Akason's educational background at Northwestern University shaped her approach to real estate finance and investment education?
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Location

Wilmette, Illinois