Episode 9: Affordable Housing in Orange County

In this Behind the Building episode, Emilee Collins, CCIM sits down with Shanell Smaw, Vice President of Development at Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, to explore the relationship-driven side of community building—and the powerful impact of strategic partnerships. With more than 12 years of experience in fundraising and relationship management, Shanell has helped advance the missions of organizations across North Carolina, including the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, NC REALTORS® Political Action Committee, and Habitat for Humanity of Cabarrus County. Drawing from years of hands-on development leadership, Shanell shares how authentic relationships fuel successful fundraising, the importance of aligning missions with donor goals, and the evolving opportunities in today’s nonprofit landscape. Shanell Smaw Quote Guest: Shanell Smaw — Vice President of Development, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County
  • 12+ years of experience in fundraising and development
  • Proven leadership advancing statewide and national nonprofit missions
  • Background with Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, NC REALTORS® PAC, and Habitat for Humanity affiliates
  • MPA from UNC Charlotte; BA in Communications from UNC Greensboro
  • Active community volunteer and dedicated mom
What you’ll learn:
  • How relationship-building drives sustainable fundraising
  • The strategy behind aligning donors, partners, and mission impact
  • Why community development requires collaboration across sectors
  • The evolving trends shaping modern nonprofit work
Key takeaways:
  • Strong partnerships create lasting community change
  • Authentic communication is the foundation of donor trust
  • Successful development blends strategy with heartfelt connection
  • Community impact is greatest when everyone has a seat at the table
Shanell Smaw
Official LinkedIn Profile

Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, NC
Official Website
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Episode 17 | Inside the CCIM Designation with PJ Doherty

May 6, 2026

In this Behind the Building episode, Emilee Collins, CCIM sits down with Marcus Thomas, AIA, NCARB, President and CEO of KEi Architects, to explore the intersection of visionary design and community impact. As the leader of a prominent minority-owned architecture firm serving the Southeast, Marcus brings a unique perspective on how thoughtful design drives long-term institutional goals and equitable growth.

Episode 16 | Cost Segregation Explained with Kevin Giles

April 9, 2026

In this episode, Emilee Collins, CCIM sits down with Kevin Giles, Director at Giles Flythe Engineers, to pull back the curtain on the technical and financial lifecycles of commercial real estate. Since 2010, Kevin has been a pivotal partner for investors and developers, providing the critical due diligence and tax optimization strategies that turn a “good deal” into a high-performing asset.

Episode 15 | User-first design in Commercial Architecture with Marcus Thomas, AIA

March 26, 2026

In this Behind the Building episode, Emilee Collins, CCIM sits down with Marcus Thomas, AIA, NCARB, President and CEO of KEi Architects, to explore the intersection of visionary design and community impact. As the leader of a prominent minority-owned architecture firm serving the Southeast, Marcus brings a unique perspective on how thoughtful design drives long-term institutional goals and equitable growth.