Texas School to Launch Real Estate Grad Program With $1M Gift

Following a $1 million gift from San Antonio-based real estate developer Walter M. Embrey Jr., the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is launching a graduate student program in real estate education.

The new Embrey Real Estate Finance and Development Program will offer a two-year master’s program in pursuit of what UTSA defined as “multidisciplinary and specialized real estate training [that] will emphasize industry engagement and applied activities.” Embrey’s $1 million gift will help to finance graduate student fellowship opportunities, externship stipends and graduate research funding for academic endeavors including conferences and industry competitions.

Embrey is the founder and chief executive officer of Embrey Partners, a development, construction and property management operation specializing in multifamily and commercial projects. Founded in 1974, Embrey Partners has been involved in more than 40 million square feet in projects throughout 10 states.

“Our industry needs talented professionals to keep up with the growth in Texas and the Southwest,” said Embrey. “I hope this gift will help UTSA develop a new breed of professional, strong in finance, adept in development and skillful in practical issues like design, engineering and construction.”

A native of San Antonio, Embrey received his finance degree from the University of Texas at Austin. He is a founding member and former chairman of the UTSA Real Estate Finance and Development Program Founders Council and was a charter member and co-chairman of the Real Estate Finance and Investment Center at the UT Austin McCombs School of Business.

“UTSA has a major impact on San Antonio, and I’m excited to be a part of that momentum,” added Embrey.