The Power Of Property: Managing Real Estate To Maximize Its Potential

The Diocesan Fiscal Management Conference (DFMC) gathered over 200 financial officers from Catholic dioceses across the United States, Canada, and Australia. During her talk, The Power of Property: Managing Real Estate to Maximize Its Potential, Burhans explored how dioceses can leverage their real estate holdings to support mission-driven objectives, balancing fiscal sustainability with social impact. She discussed strategies and tools for property management that integrate environmental sustainability, community engagement, and long-term stewardship. Burhans also shared lessons from her work in faith-based environmental advocacy and land management, offering practical approaches for diocesan leaders to use their properties in ways that align with their values and long-term goals. Additionally, her talk sessions included an interactive workshop portion, where participants had the opportunity to engage deeply with the material and participate in corresponding activities that counted toward Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). The conference featured other prominent speakers, including the Most Reverend Abp. Timothy Broglio, the head of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), who provided insights on the intersection of church leadership and governance.