FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 15, 2026

CONTACT: Jayma File, NAIOP Colorado | 303-782-0155 | [email protected]

University of Denver Wins 2025 Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge with Visionary “Thornton Gateway” Redevelopment

Submitted by Stacy Stout, BRANDiac Strategies

DENVER, COLO. – The University of Denver has claimed the coveted Tracey Wilkes NAIOP Cup at the 2025 Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge (RMREC), hosted by NAIOP Colorado and presented by Land Title Guarantee Company. Blue Jay Development, the winning team from the University of Denver, impressed judges and a full house of real estate professionals with their comprehensive redevelopment proposal for the Thornton Shopping Center site — a transformative project at the heart of South Thornton. 

Student Teams Reimagine Thornton Shopping Center in 23rd Real Estate Challenge

Submitted by Stacy Stout, 2025 Challenge Vision Chair with BRANDiac Strategies

DENVER, COLO. – Graduate students from the University of Denver and the University of Colorado are set to compete in the 23rd Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge, presented by Land Title Guarantee Company and NAIOP Colorado. This year, the Challenge spotlights the redevelopment of the historic 15.6-acre Thornton Shopping Center site. The event culminates with final project presentations on April 30, 2025.