The annual “Night of Excellence in Commercial Real Estate” awards gala is the biggest event of the year. The “who’s who” of Portland, commercial real estate, business and economic development attend the NOE every year to celebrate our industry, our community, and the professionals who made a real impact in the previous year. The most successful developments, brokers and complex deals are honored, and tens of thousands of dollars are raised for charity.
“I thank everyone who has helped our company and has helped me through the years.” Tom Stern, Pacific NW Properties
2026’s event may have been the best one yet! At a sold-out convention center Hyatt on March 5, 2026, hundreds of professionals, including developers, brokers, architects, lenders, elected officials, trade organization leaders, service providers, general contractors and business owners alike gathered for a Luau themed party, which included Hawaiian décor, Tahitian drummers, Polynesian fire dancers, as well as special guest, Hawaii’s own Marcus Mariota — the undisputed Oregon football G.O.A.T. who won the Heisman Trophy and currently is an NFL quarterback for the Washington Commanders. Over $70,000 was raised for Mariota’s MOTIV8 Foundation, which works tirelessly to empower today’s youth through academics and the power of sport.
In an evening filled with huge moments, nothing may have been as big as when Pacific NW Properties Founder, Tom Stern, was honored with the inaugural “Legend in CRE” award.
“What a compliment to be honored tonight,” stated Stern after accepting his award. “I thank everyone who has helped our company and has helped me through the years.”
Following a successful 26-year career in the wholesale plumbing business, Tom founded his commercial real estate development, investment and property management company in 1990. Under Tom’s leadership, which is based on the principals of humility, approachability, urgency, and kindness, Pacific NW Properties has become one of the most successful industrial business park operators in the Northwest.
“We have always strived to operate as a warm and friendly company,” stated Stern with pride. “We truly appreciate our 500+ tenant customers, property service providers, and supportive broker friends. Although we have grown to be a large Portland metro business park and office owner, one of our primary goals is to continue to operate like a small company which is friendly and easy to do business with.”
Tom Stern is truly a legend. While he doesn’t seek the spotlight, he’s done so much good for so many people in this world, and there’s no one who deserves this honor more than him.