About John Colvin
John Colvin, founder of the Colvin Institute, was a 1969 alumnus of UMD and principal owner of Questar Properties. He contributed extensively to the community and real estate industry, serving as president of Maryland's National Association of Home Builders and participating in state commissions. John and his wife Karen endowed the Institute in 2008, expanding the MRED program and supporting research and engagement with the real estate community. His additional gift in 2015 launched a minor in real estate development and construction management. Inspired by his mother, Neomie Colvin, a pioneer in commercial real estate, John aimed to be the top decision-maker in development. He found great satisfaction in mentoring students, being a Capstone mentor, guest lecturing and leading field trips to Baltimore. The Colvin Institute remains a valuable asset to UMD and its students.
Message from the Director
Welcome to the Colvin Institute of Real Estate Development at the University of Maryland. John and Karen Colvin founded the Institute to connect education with the people and decisions that shape our communities. Their commitment to students, mentorship, and thoughtful development continues to guide our work.
Real estate decisions drive housing opportunities, economic change, and the future of our communities. Working with students, alumni, faculty, and industry partners, I hope to build on the Colvins’ vision by creating more opportunities to learn from one another, explore emerging challenges, and put ideas into practice. I invite you to be part of that work as we shape the Institute’s next chapter.
Jesse Saginor
Director, Colvin Institute of Real Estate Development Program
Associate Professor
jsaginor@umd.edu