In April, the Urban Land Institute welcomed Vincent Ilustre as the new president of the ULI Foundation, appointing him to lead philanthropic initiatives and strengthen donor engagement. Ilustre was drawn to the role by the strong connection members have with ULI. “There’s a genuine passion for this organization,” he said. “Members don’t just join ULI—they invest in it because it’s helped shape their professional journeys.”
Ilustre brings an extensive background in institutional and individual philanthropy. During 12 years at Tulane University, he held several leadership roles in fundraising, most recently as vice president of development. He also led Ilustre Consulting, advising high-net-worth individuals, nonprofits, and donor-advised funds on strategic giving. “ULI brings together mission, impact, and a powerful network of changemakers,” he said. “This role allows me to draw on everything I’ve learned and apply it to work that delivers real results for communities around the world.”
Since stepping into the role, Ilustre has focused on building relationships across ULI’s global network. He traveled to meet members at major events, including the Spring Meeting in Denver, the Americas District Council Midsummer Leadership Retreat in Boise, and the Governors International Study Tour in London. His goal: to listen, learn, and ensure the Foundation’s work reflects the priorities and aspirations of ULI members. “It’s a privilege to work alongside our philanthropic community to support programs that help members lead as stewards of the built environment,” he said. “That’s why I’ve made it a priority to engage with members at every level—from long-standing supporters to new members, and from District Councils to Product Councils and governing bodies.”
His top priority is to make philanthropy a core part of the ULI experience and empower members to create impact together. “It’s not about the size of your gift,” he said. “It’s about being part of something bigger. Every contribution reflects a shared commitment to ULI’s mission.”
This mindset is shaping the Foundation’s evolving strategy through a focus on broadening support and cultivating larger, long-term investments. A key part of the vision is deeper collaboration with District Councils, where most members engage with ULI. “District Councils are the heart of ULI,” Ilustre said. “By working closely with them, we can show how generosity fuels local impact.” He also aims to expand philanthropic leadership across the Governors Program, Product Councils, and ULI’s governing boards, while increasing engagement with corporations, foundations, and aligned partners.
At the heart of Ilustre’s approach is a strong belief in partnership and collaboration. “I take a donor-centered view,” he said. “When someone invests in the Foundation, we need to understand what inspires their giving and connect it to ULI’s work. Strong relationships are built on trust, shared purpose, and measurable impact—and we need to deliver on all three.”
As the ULI Foundation nears the successful close of its $100 million Our Cities, Our Future capital campaign, Ilustre is focused on building upon that success. This moment marks both a culmination and a transition—a time to celebrate what’s been achieved and to set the stage for what comes next. “This milestone is a testament to the extraordinary generosity of our donors,” he said. “Their support has powered the programs and initiatives that define ULI’s global impact.”
Looking ahead, Ilustre said, “The next chapter is about momentum—broadening our reach, inspiring new champions, and ensuring ULI has the resources to lead well into the future. We’re re-engaging the leaders who shaped our last campaign—not only to honor their past commitment but [also] to invite them to build on it. Their continued generosity, paired with the energy of new champions, will drive the Foundation’s next era of impact.”
“I want our members to see the Foundation as a driving force behind the impact we create together,” Ilustre added. “When philanthropy becomes part of the ULI experience, we unlock the full potential of our community to shape a more sustainable and resilient built environment.”
