Alumnus gift addresses inclusivity in real estate

Deserving students from diverse demographic and socioeconomic backgrounds will have an equal opportunity to pursue a real estate education thanks to the generosity of Florida State University College of Business alumnus John Crossman (B.S. ’93).

“There is a need to promote real estate education among women and minority student populations as a crucial step in addressing discrimination throughout the real estate industry,” said Crossman, explaining the inspiration behind his gift.

Crossman, CEO of Crossman Career Builders, recently pledged $54,000 to establish the Crossman Career Builders Scholarship, which will provide much-needed support to students studying real estate at the FSU College of Business, particularly those who identify as female, Black, Hispanic or as a member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

FSU Hispanic/Latinx Alumni Network President Stefany Moncada (B.S. ’13) shared her enthusiasm for the Crossman Career Builders Scholarship. “Representation is needed in order to start closing the wealth gap and providing access and information to underrepresented populations. It all starts by supporting the students who are passionate about real estate.”

“Whether it be home ownership or commercial property development, real estate investments have historically been one of the primary ways of generating both personal and generational stability and wealth,” said Charee Williams (B.S. ’06), FSU National Black Alumni president. “Unfortunately, many minorities never have an opportunity to realize this dream, further widening disparities across a multitude of health and wealth measurements.

“The Crossman Career Builders Scholarship will allow students the opportunities to not only educate themselves within the industry, but also to begin sitting at the table where decisions are made that impact minorities and their neighborhoods,” Williams said.    

Crossman, a 2013 College of Business Alumni Hall of Fame inductee and FSU Alumni Association Board of Directors member, designed the new fund to begin awarding scholarships immediately.

“John has continuously advocated for Florida State and the College of Business, but more importantly, for our talented students and ensuring all feel welcomed and supported throughout their academic careers,” FSU College of Business Dean Michael Hartline said. “I truly appreciate John and Crossman Career Builders for helping us institute a lasting culture where underrepresented students can confidently advance in their real estate education.”

Crossman has built an enduring legacy at FSU, beginning when he was a sprinter on the FSU Track team from 1989-1993 and is currently a lifetime member of the FSU Varsity Club and a Seminole Booster Silver Chief.

Those interested in supporting the new scholarship may do so on the FSU Foundation’s website.

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By Lexxie Beckmeyer