Grounds for celebration: Rhea Vaflor honored as ‘The Groundbreaker’

We are incredibly proud to share that Rhea Vaflor, Director of Trendcasting + Lifestyle, has been named ‘The Groundbreaker’ as a ULI Washington 2024 Awards for Excellence Leadership Honoree. These awards recognize and celebrate the implementation of industry expertise across the region in four distinct categories: Visionary Leader, Groundbreaker, Changemaker, and Distinguished Service.

The Groundbreaker is an accomplished mid-career expert in the field of land use and real estate, showcasing exceptional leadership within the Metropolitan Washington Region. This individual will be acknowledged for their remarkable dedication to regional prosperity, emphasizing projects and professional expertise centered on community engagement, the inclusion of diverse perspectives, and delivering transformative impact. Serving as an inspiring role model, The Groundbreaker sets an example for aspiring young professionals eager to pursue ongoing leadership development.

Rhea is an exceptional part of our team—her endless curiosity and persistence in challenging the status quo make her a strong leader and consistent seeker for what’s next. Her artistic, clever, and inclusive design work—on Pierce at the Highlands, for example—has been recognized by Architectural Record and Design Milk, NAIOP MD|DC, Multi-Housing News, Delta Associates, NAHB’s Pillars of the Industry, AIA DC, and the IIDA Mid-Atlantic. Additionally, Rhea is an active participant throughout industry groups outside of Hickok Cole—she is the former Chair of the ULI Washington’s Women’s Leadership Institute, a current NEXT member, participant in the ULI DEI Committee as well as the national IIDA Equity Council.