Continuing the Legacy: The Allen J. Block Scholarship

Allen J. Block 2014 Scholarship Recipient, Brian Sandy, with Michael and Kenneth Block

Allen J. Block, a leader in the commercial real estate community, passed away in 2009. Mr. Block poured hard work and integrity into every business endeavor, every transaction, and helped shape the Kansas City commercial real estate industry that it is today. He was also adamant about applying this same work ethic to help make our community a better place. His philanthropic efforts spanned local organizations like Children's TLC, Wayside Waifs, The Jewish Community Foundation and more. His dedication to hard work and community improvement live on with the Allen J. Block Scholarship.

The Allen J. Block Scholarship
Block Real Estate Services (BRES) and the Lewis White Real Estate Center at UMKC have partnered to award a scholarship every year to a student who demonstrates noteworthy accomplishments such as community service, extracurricular activity, commitment to a career in real estate and a GPA of at least 3.0. This scholarship endowment was formed in 2010 to support students at the UMKC Bloch School of Management wishing to pursue a real estate career. Kenneth Block, Managing Principal of BRES and son of the late Allen Block, said this about the scholarship after its formation, “Our family could think of no better way and no better place to start this scholarship fund in our father’s honor so that his love for the business can be carried well into the future through upcoming young professionals.”

This Year's Recipient 
This year, the Allen J. Block Scholarship was presented to Brian Sandy. Sandy has his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance and a minor in economics from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. After graduation, he pursued a career and served his country as a Sergeant in United States Army. Sandy is continuing his education and pursuing his MBA in real estate at the University of Missouri-Kansas City while serving in the US Army Reserves. Looking forward to what the future will bring, Brian noted in his essay that he is excited that his career change to real estate will be more fulfilling and rewarding.

BRES was excited to help make this career change happen for Brian. We are also proud that Allen J. Block's name continues to give and make a difference in the community through this scholarship. Because of this award, students with the passion to pursue real estate are getting the boost needed to achieve their dreams. Interested to see the other bright students that have on in year's past? You can see all past recipients here. 

Contributor: 

Paige Salveter, MBA
Director of Marketing and Communications
Block Real Estate Services
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