Thanks to the support of the industry and our city, NAIOP Edmonton received two awards at the 2017 NAIOP Chapter Leadership and Legislative Retreat in Washington this week. As the newest chapter out of 52, NAIOP Edmonton was founded 4 years ago, this week we were recognized for the largest growth in 2016, increasing our membership by 41%.
We were also recognized for our outstanding Developing Leader program. The "DL" Program is for those 35 and younger and focuses on providing exclusive opportunities for education, networking and development. We provide education for our members by hosting quarterly lunches interviewing industry leaders, such as Ken Cantor, Bob Black and Darin Rayburn. We also hold unique and exciting social events, including culinary lessons, axe throwing and golf lessons. Finally, in 2016 we hosted our first mentorship term connecting leaders from the industry with those just starting out and providing one-on-one time to ask questions. The hard work of the Developing Leader committee, led by Jeffery Sutherland, was seen in the 140% growth in DL membership.
We are proud of these achievements, most of all because we know they provide us with more opportunities to support the industry that has brought us here.
Thank you to everyone that has joined NAIOP Edmonton, attended an event or participated in our advocacy initiatives. We are excited for what 2017 has in store.