Shaw University Hires Hayat Brown for Real Estate Utilization Strategy

RALEIGH – In January 2022, Shaw University selected the national advisory firm Hayat Brown to assist the downtown Raleigh institution with its real estate utilization and maximization strategy. This is a progressive, next step in alignment with guidance received as part of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) study that Shaw University participated in during the fall of 2019.

According to Shaw University’s Vice President for Real Estate and Strategic Development Kevin Sullivan, Hayat Brown will help the university develop its vision for unlocking the campus’ real estate value and potential. This will include taking a multi-faceted view and seeking a balanced approach to optimize development relative to land value, economic development, community benefits (e.g., historic preservation, affordable living, neighborhood retail, public spaces), student life (e.g., athletics, health and wellness facilities, living-learning communities, retail amenities, training/classroom/lab facilities), mission-oriented benefits (e.g., student scholarships and internships), and equity (e.g., affordable housing and minority business inclusion). Hayat Brown will explore alternative financing and delivery methods for needed capital improvements at Shaw, including (P3) public-private partnerships.

Sullivan said that Hayat Brown will assist Shaw in actualizing this vision by engaging stakeholders including Shaw students, staff, faculty, neighboring communities, developers, and City officials in a broad-based and inclusive manner to ensure maximum participation and benefit for all.

Hayat Brown is a diversely staffed engineering and advisory firm providing expertise to public and private institutions involved in the planning, construction, and operation of civil and social infrastructure projects, as well as commercial real estate development, particularly in urban areas. The company’s mission is to improve society by helping governments, private companies and institutions deliver capital improvements that promote equitable and financially stable communities for living, learning, justice, and health.

Dr. Paulette Dillard, president of Shaw University, said: “Hayat Brown was selected after an extensive search and Request for Proposal (RFP) process to hire an experienced firm that understands and appreciates the unique historical and cultural significance that Shaw University represents. We look forward to working with the Hayat Brown team as they lend their guidance and expertise throughout the duration of the development process. This is a multi-year commitment from everyone involved to identify and team with the right development partners – organizations that have a vested interest in the betterment of Shaw; its students, staff and faculty, the nearby community, and the City of Raleigh.”

Shaw University, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is the first historically Black institution of higher education founded in North Carolina – in the South – and among the oldest in the nation. The University was founded in 1865 by Henry Martin Tupper. Dr. Paulette Dillard currently serves as the University’s 18th President. For more information, visit: www.shawu.edu