This year, KGD Architecture proudly collaborated with the team from the University of Maryland (UMD) in the NAIOP Capital Challenge, an annual intercollegiate real estate case study competition organized by the NAIOP DC|MD Chapter. KGD professionals worked closely with the student team throughout the competition, providing guidance, technical insight, and real-world perspective. The collaboration proved highly successful as the UMD team won the 2026 National Capital Challenge, reflecting both the talent of the UMD students and the effectiveness of KGD’s mentorship-driven engagement in balance with others who collaborated closely with the UMD students, including Trammell Crow Company, AMT Engineering, DPR Construction, and Founders Bank.

UMD Student Paul Abonjuah, PMP summed up the experience best when stating, “…representing UMD Colvin Institute of Real Estate Development, was a testimony to hardwork always pays!!! The experience we went through before putting together a masterpiece (365-days activation) development proposal for the Washington Commanders (RFK Stadium), is indelibly printed on our hearts.”

Our congratulations to Paul and his fellow teammates: Joshua Kim, Sai Venkat Jillellamudi, Shekinah D., Victor Ojo, and David Ragland! Well done!

Scroll below for a link to our Instagram photo carousel showcasing aspects that helped UMD win this year's challenge .

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