Before Chapman University’s Master of Science in Real Estate (MSRE) program had a name, Perry Schonfeld was already invested.
With decades of real estate experience and a heart for mentorship, he joined early focus groups exploring a key question: Why doesn’t Orange County have a university real estate program? It wasn’t just a good idea. It was a need — and an opportunity to build something that would outlast any transaction or title.
“I got involved with Chapman before the MSRE program even started,” Schonfeld said. “This felt like a real way to plug in. Chapman already had a great reputation — it wasn’t some startup.”
Launched in 2020, the MSRE program equips students with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of real estate investment, development, and finance. Four years later, alumnus Alex Hayden ’95 established the Alexander E. Hayden School of Real Estate to bring national and global cachet to Chapman’s growing real estate offerings.
Schonfeld taught in the program’s first cohort, attending classes on day one — right in the middle of COVID-19. As an adjunct professor, he teaches fundamentals, coaches students to victory in high-level competitions like this year’s win at the NAIOP Orange Cup, mentors students one-on-one, and invests deeply in their growth.
That word — invest — means more than money to him.
Between December 2024 and January 2025, a combined $300,000 gift from Schonfeld and his partners at LBA Realty supported the Real Estate Education Endowment. But this wasn’t just a financial investment. It was a philosophical one.
The endowment empowers curriculum innovation, enhances faculty recruitment and retention, fosters program development, and provides scholarships and essential resources. It ensures that Chapman students graduate with more than technical expertise—they leave Chapman transformed, better trained, deeply connected, and poised to lead confidently.
“It’s not just about money — it’s also wisdom,” Schonfeld said. “To impact people to better their lives: That’s the ultimate human accomplishment.”
Schonfeld’s mentorship extends beyond students — he’s also been an associate and friend to Hayden.
“As a professor, Perry’s impact is tangible: a student’s breakthrough, a grateful email from a parent, and the knowledge that someone cared,” Hayden shared. “I know he prides himself on bettering Chapman students and being there for them — as he has been for me.”
He’s not alone in this. Schonfeld’s partners at LBA — where he’s worked since 1997 — joined him in the gift to Chapman. Every partner contributes philanthropically, often rallying around each other’s passions.
“Being in the community, LBA has admired the growth and development of both Chapman and the master’s in real estate program,” said Phil Belling, a longtime partner at LBA. “Observing Perry’s involvement, his passion for the program, and the strong relationships he’s built with students and alumni, the company is excited to support the MSRE program in honor of Perry.”
That same collaborative spirit drives Schonfeld’s role as chair of the MSRE Executive Advisory Council— a board of top industry leaders serving as a think tank for the program. Orange County, he believes, is fertile ground. It’s home to some of the best firms and brightest talent in real estate. By connecting these leaders more directly to Chapman, the council is poised to shape student outcomes, deepen alumni engagement, and elevate the university’s reputation.
“It’s the early innings,” Schonfeld explained of the council. “But the exclusivity will elevate the MSRE program locally, regionally, and nationally.”
For all his forward thinking, his advice to students remains grounded: Enjoy the journey. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Don’t let fear cloud the experience. Above all, invest in yourself — in your emotional intelligence — and stay open.
Thanks to Schonfeld’s vision, generosity, and leadership — both in the classroom and beyond — MSRE students are stepping into a future ready for them.
Want to get involved? Support the MSRE program or learn more about joining the Executive Advisory Council by contacting realestate@chapman.edu.
