For two decades, Nareit’s Leader in the Light Awards have recognized forward-thinking leaders across the REIT industry. What began as an early effort to spotlight energy efficiency has evolved into one of the sector’s most respected honors: showcasing companies that integrate stewardship, resilience, and responsible governance into every part of their strategy.
In 2005, the Leader in the Light Forum offered an early opportunity for REIT industry leaders to convene, share best practices, and explore emerging trends, including their responsiveness to the global investment community’s growing focus on sustainability. The small annual Forum grew as the REIT industry embraced transparency and corporate responsibility as core to business growth and strategy.
As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the program, we look back at the REITs that have consistently raised the bar for the industry and helped shape a more sustainable future.
A Community of Shared Leadership
Leader in the Light winners come from every property sector, including industrial, office, residential, retail, health care, data centers, lodging, and more. Their achievements reflect the innovation and commitment that have propelled the entire industry toward higher standards of performance and transparency.
Below is a look at the companies that have been recognized over the past 20 years:
15+ Awards
- Prologis, Inc. – 18 Awards
10-15 Awards
- Vornado Realty Trust – 15 Awards
- Kilroy Realty Corporation – 11 Awards
- Healthpeak Properties, Inc. – 10 Awards
5-9 Awards
- Macerich – 9 Awards
- Simon Property Group, Inc. – 9 Awards
- Ventas, Inc. – 9 Awards
- Digital Realty – 8 Awards
- AvalonBay Communities, Inc. – 7 Awards
- BXP – 7 Awards
- Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. – 6 Awards
- Kimco Realty Corporation – 5 Awards
- Equity Residential – 5 Awards
1-4 Awards
- Extra Space Storage, Inc. – 3 Awards
- Hudson Pacific Properties, Inc. – 3 Awards
- JBG SMITH – 3 Awards
- Park Hotels & Resorts – 2 Awards
- Public Storage – 2 Awards
- Hines Global Income Trust – 2 Awards
- JLL Income Property Trust, Inc. – 2 Awards
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Legacy of Sustainable Leadership
This year, the awards will continue to evolve, offering new opportunities for REITs of all sizes to be recognized for their transparency and the impact they drive on their portfolios and the people they serve. In 2026, REITwise, Nareit’s premier educational event for REIT professionals, will feature sustainability and human capital programming, supporting REITs that are formally embedding sustainability into business management and reporting practices. The 2026 Awards will be presented at REITwise in March 2026.
For 20 years, the Leader in the Light Awards have recognized companies that illuminate a path forward. Their work inspires the entire REIT community—and the next two decades promise even more progress.