At talkStrategy, we believe in nurturing talent and fostering growth. David Dunn, our dedicated Account Coordinator, embarked on the enriching 9-month journey of the Urban Land Institute’s Mentorship Forum. Learn about David’s experience and gain insights into the transformative impact of the program.
ts: What influenced you to join ULI?
DD: I joined ULI’s mentorship forum because I was inspired by the work I do with Southstar and VIDA San Antonio. I am fascinated by how their team approaches development with a community-focused lens, asking, “How are we adding the most value to this area by addressing what people really need?”
To say that I enjoy the work we do with them would be an understatement. It influenced me to delve deeper into the world of development, and ULI gave me the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds who work on impactful projects to move San Antonio forward as the city grows. I was eager to join those conversations and build meaningful connections.
If you had told me a year ago that I would love the development industry as much as I do now, I wouldn’t have believed you.
David Dunn, Account Coordinator
ts: What did you enjoy the most?
DD: As an extrovert, I enjoyed networking with members from various backgrounds and learning about their vision for the future of San Antonio. I also appreciated the events and tours that ULI organized. From touring projects like Hemisfair, Brooks, and the Tower Life Building to speed-networking and speaking events, I took away something valuable from every single event.
I particularly enjoyed the time I spent with my mentor and Vice President of Cultural Placemaking at Centro San Antonio, Andi Rodriguez. She is one of the brightest and most knowledgeable people I know, and soaking up her passion and expertise about the city was invaluable. In the nine months we’ve known each other, Andi has taught me more about San Antonio history than I’ve learned in the ten years I’ve lived here.
ts: What were you surprised to learn?
DD: I was surprised by how many different industries were involved in ULI. I thought it would just be people already part of the development industry, but I was pleasantly surprised to meet individuals from a variety of fields, including real estate, law, engineering, marketing, communication, education, health, and more. This experience opened my eyes to the understanding that multiple perspectives are needed to truly make a positive impact in the city. We all have expertise and valuable opinions to offer, regardless of our discipline.
ts: How will you apply your learnings to your work?
DD: By incorporating a deeper understanding of how development shapes communities and recognizing the value of diverse perspectives, I aim to enhance our strategies to better serve our clients. Whether advocating for inclusive growth or leveraging diverse viewpoints, I’m eager to apply these insights to positively impact our projects and engagements, especially within the San Antonio community.
ts: What advice would I give to future mentees entering the ULI mentorship program?
DD: I would say:
- Be open-minded: Approach ULI with open arms—ready to meet new people, learn new things, and explore new places.
- Connect with your mentor: Have one-on-one coffee meetings, ask questions, and keep them updated. You never know what resources they can offer.
- Simply show up: You never know which information, activity, or event will spark inspiration or ignite something within you.
ts: Is there anything else you would like to say?
DD: I would like to thank everyone who has supported me during my time at ULI. Anamaria Suescun-Fast, Mariah Contreras, and Kristine Smith from talkStrategy, as well as Gretchen Howell from VIDA San Antonio—thank you for everything!