Natalie was nominated for the Urban Land Institute’s (ULI) Center of Leadership Program. After an application and interview process, she was selected as one of the participants invited to cultivate their expertise in this unique real estate driven leadership program.
“The Center for Leadership provides a powerful local resource to help guide the responsible development of the Atlanta region by strengthening connections among area organizations that guide and influence Atlanta real estate development.” – ULI Atlanta
During this year-long leadership development program, she collaborated with other real estate professionals to study and reimagine Clark State University’s historic Park Street Church.
Clark Atlanta is one of the City’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Situated on the edge of their campus and prominently located, the Park Street Church building was in need of restoration that could also generate revenue.
Her team proposed a restoration of the sanctuary space as a music and performing arts venue which could be rented for events. They also proposed a cafe and music teaching spaces.
“The study was a perfect blend of my passions– strategic facilities planning, neighborhood revitalization, historic preservation, and real estate problem solving. ” – Natalie Martinez
“Atlanta needs to have alternative music venues for medium sized audiences. This building addresses that need and engages the community while also generating revenue to offset the cost of preservation projects and maintenance. It’s a win-win for the community, the University, and anyone driving by Park Street–they get to look up and see a gorgeous historic building.” – Natalie Martinez
Natalie is a graduate of the 2018-2019 Urban Land Institute Center for Leadership.
