NSU Horizons Fall 2011

9 horizons Master’s Candidate Builds on His Real Estate Knowledge By Brandon Hensler Jake Butler knows that a career can thrive even when an industry undergoes an upheaval. That’s why, after working in real estate for 10 years, Butler is soaking up real estate development classes at NSU’s H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship. But, earning his second master’s degree is only half the battle for the goal- oriented Butler. He also is fighting a debilitating disease. Butler was born with sickle-cell anemia, a disease that causes red blood cells to form an “S” shape in the blood stream, resulting in a lack of blood flow to the muscles. The condition causes severe pain and lack of oxygen to the body, forcing Butler, 34, to spend one to three days each month in the hospital. Butler’s spiritual strength gives him the perseverance to pursue his degree. His goal is to advance his career in real estate as an investor, consultant, and property manager. “I’m thankful for NSU,” said Butler. “I’m thankful for what I have been able to achieve and for each day.” Butler’s first master’s degree was in public administration from George Mason University. He is slated to receive his master’s degree in 2013 from NSU. “Living with sickle-cell anemia makes me think about how to turn negatives into positives,” said Butler. “I am able to attend school and try to fulfill my goals and dreams. Without goals and dreams, there’s nothing.” Butler’s path to NSU was forged by his mentor, Michael Maxwell, interim director of the university’s Real Estate Development Program. They served together on a committee at Miami Country Day School where Butler taught history and economics. Butler chose NSU because the school’s faculty and staff members provide hands-on experience to connect students to industry leaders. Those professionals can provide the students with mentorships and open doors to potential employers. “Employability is the ultimate goal,” said Michael Fields, Ph.D., dean of the Huizenga School. “The Real Estate Development Program is growing and providing direct value to the students who work hard to achieve their goals. We are proud of the program and of Jake. He is a great success story about overcom- ing adversity.” Butler, who specializes in commercial real estate, purchased his first commercial property in spring 2011—an eight-unit apartment building that he repaired. Eventually he wants to build shopping centers and a low- income public housing development. According to Maxwell, student success can be attrib- uted to the mentorship program, which gets job results for many graduates. Additionally, many students obtain internships. All students participate in events and programs by industry groups, including the Urban Land Institute, an international nonprofit organization representing land use and real estate development. “Our students learn what it takes to succeed in real estate from the leaders in the industry and our faculty members,” said Maxwell. “Combined with our personal direction and assistance, it’s a win-win situation.” Butler’s success in school and in a struggling real estate market despite his ongoing battle against adverse health issues is clear evidence of one man’s win-win. n student profile Jake Butler is seated in front of the first apartment building that he bought and repaired.