Title:Harrison Beacher (C’08): “Georgetown brought me opportunities and friendships”

Harrison Beacher (C’08), co-owner of Coalition Properties Group, the top Black-owned brokerage firm in the nation according to the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, attributes his overall success to his roots at Georgetown and his long-lasting friendships.

What drew you to Georgetown?

It was just the energy and the people. I grew up in the DC metro area and attended a Georgetown basketball camp when I was 10 or 12-years-old. I stayed in New South and it was an amazing experience. 

Later I played football at my Catholic high school. I was getting recruited by different Ivy League and Patriot League universities. During my senior year in high school, my stepfather was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer, so it was important for me to choose a good school with lots of opportunities, and also one that was close to home. 

After attending what used to be called the “Hoya Saxa Minority Focus Open House Weekend” and two more Student Open House weekends, people started asking me if I was already a student.  

What’s one of your favorite Georgetown memories?

Senior Week, specifically Senior Ball on the night before graduation. It was amazing! I was on the class committee and took part in helping to plan this magical event. There was such a sense of pride around that celebration. Both of my grandmothers came into town from Alabama and Virginia for my graduation.

What impact has Georgetown had on your life’s journey?

Opportunity and friendships! I met Ryan Butler (C’08) playing football at Georgetown. He’s still one of my best friends and also a managing partner at my firm.

What inspires you to continue to give back to Georgetown?

If it were not for athletics, I would not have been able to afford Georgetown. I think of my giving as “paying it forward.” Georgetown opened up so many doors and relationships in my life. 

I also helped raise funds for the Class of 2008 Senior Class Gift. That endeavor taught me the importance of philanthropy and how giving offsets expenses. I am grateful for the opportunity I received through financial aid and hope that my giving will create a brighter future for the next generation of Hoyas. 

How do you enjoy spending time?

I love family and good friends! For my birthday dinner this year, it’s going to be my wife and I and two of my best friends who I only know because of Georgetown. Whether it be a birthday, wedding, or some other huge life event, I always include my friends from Georgetown. 

Who are you called to be and how has Georgetown helped shape this calling?

I believe I am called to be a connector. One of the things that I have learned from Georgetown is this concept of “Called to Be.” I took that idea seriously and thought critically about it. When a good opportunity comes to me, I take hold of it and then help others along the way.