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The inaugural Newark Summit, held in early December, brought together government leaders, policymakers and some of the most prominent figures in the North Jersey commercial real estate market.

About a thousand attendees heard detailed analysis of the forces driving the market in the region — and especially in Newark. In an onstage interview conducted by Genova Burns founder Angelo Genova, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka described what was at stake for the city as economic development takes hold. “We have to be inclusive of everybody who came here; because that’s what they showed up here for – to be a part of the American experiment, to be a part of this growth. … Here in Newark, when we are doing all of these things, we are making people’s lives better. And we’re investing in the economy, creating jobs and building these tall buildings,” Baraka said. “Newark is beautiful and people are happy about their ROI and the wealth they’re creating for themselves.”

The event was organized by roundtable&advisory, the firm behind the equally successful Jersey City Summit. NJBIZ was a media partner for the event and editorial staff members conducted a series of interviews with participants and attendees. To listen to the discussions, click on the link below. 

Meet the speakers:

Adenah Bayoh – A restaurateur and real estate developer who owns seven IHOP restaurants; farm-to-table soul food eatery Cornbread and Brick City Vegan in downtown Newark. Bayoh’s real estate portfolio includes several residential and mixed-use urban redevelopment projects in northern New Jersey.

Angelo Genova – One of the state’s most prominent lawyers, Genova served as chair and master of ceremonies of the Newark Summit. A litigator with a wide-ranging practice, Genova has represented candidates for office at all levels of government — local, county, state and national. He has also appeared on several NJBIZ power lists.

Ashley Mays – The chief of place and real estate at the Newark Alliance is responsible for creating inclusive economic growth and wealth. In her previous role as senior vice president and head of leasing at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Mays oversaw leasing transactional work and the curation of a business ecosystem comprising advanced manufacturing, tech and creative companies.

Adam Pasternack – As president of Russo Property Management, Pasternack oversees Russo Development‘s multifamily portfolio, including leasing, marketing and maintenance. He serves on the executive committees of NAIOP New Jersey and the Industrial and Office Real Estate Brokers Association.

Anthony Smith – The executive director of the Lincoln Park Coast Historical District is spearheading the redevelopment of an area that serves as a gateway to New Jersey’s largest city. Perhaps the most significant component of that effort is the restoration and transformation of the historic South Park Presbyterian Church.

Calvin Souder – An attorney and the founder of Souder, Shabazz & Woolridge Law Group, whose practice includes commercial/residential real estate, tax, general complex litigation, toxic torts, product liability, fraud and commercial matters, corporate governance and compliance, and insurance. Born and raised in Newark, Souder has long been a fixture on development matters in the city.

To hear the interviews, click below: