September 18, 2021

NAIOP Minnesota is proud to recognize Lori Larson Heller with its 2021 President’s Award. It is NAIOP’s highest individual honor, with the winner selected from a field of candidates nominated by members. The award recognizes outstanding service to the commercial real estate industry and salutes service to NAIOP and to the community.

Lori has contributed to the commercial real estate industry for over 35 years, starting her career in 1982 at St. Paul Properties. She held leadership positions at Opus Corporation, CBRE, Dougherty Real Estate Equity Advisors and others, as well as running her own consulting firm. Her experience spans the breadth of the commercial real estate spectrum, including acquisition, disposition, finance, joint venture structuring, development, corporate real estate and asset management. Her knowledge is based on well over $4 billion in real estate transactions completed in more than 25 markets across the country.

“From a personal perspective, it has been a genuine privilege to have learned from Lori directly through her NAIOP leadership positions. On a larger scale, Lori’s impact throughout the industry has been profound and extends well beyond the amazing career resume, to an equally impressive passion for volunteering in the community. She is a great example for all to emulate. Her passion to learn and personal warmth touch all that she interacts with, and her influence extends far beyond the commercial real estate industry,” NAIOP Minnesota president Phil Cattanach, Vice President, General Manager, Opus Development Company, said.

Lori has the distinguished honor of having been the first female President of NAIOP Minnesota in 2001. She has participated in or led numerous NAIOP committees, served as Vice President and Treasurer, was a member of the Board of Directors, served as both a formal and informal mentor to many, and has been a speaker or emcee for various events. She believes in giving back to the community and has served on the Board of Directors for Bridging, CornerHouse and Special Olympics Minnesota for over 20 years. The Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal honored Lori with their Women in Business Award and Bisnow recognized her as one of its Power Women recipients for outstanding excellence and influence in Twin Cities Commercial Real Estate.

In 2018, Lori made the decision to leave her career when her husband was diagnosed with ALS/Lou Gehrig’s Disease. She became a full-time caregiver to him until his death last year. She now works passionately as an advocate on behalf of others battling ALS. Her efforts include work with State and Federal legislation, research and awareness, and raising to date almost $500,000.

Thank you, Lori, for all you have done to help move the commercial real estate industry forward and for inspiring others with your continual dedication to serve the broader community. NAIOP Minnesota is proud to recognize Lori Larson Heller with its 2021 President’s Award.