What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial real estate?

I kind of "fell" into real estate. After graduating from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Graphic Design, I started my career as an Art Director for a local magazine. However, I quickly realized that I was more of a people person and not suited for a role that primarily involved sitting in an office designing page layouts. That's when I came across an opportunity as a leasing consultant for a student housing property.

From there, I worked my way to Property Manager in student housing and later transitioned to managing Class-A residential properties in Philadelphia. After having our son in 2023, I realized that the city commute was no longer sustainable, and I sought a better work-life balance. Now, after a little over a year at Workspace, I can confidently say that this career change has been a fantastic decision. I work with amazing people in a company that values hard work and a balanced lifestyle.

Have you faced any challenges as a woman in the industry, and how did you overcome them?

Women in leadership roles often face the challenge of being perceived as "bossy" when assertive or not being taken seriously, whereas some men exhibiting similar behaviors are considered strong leaders. I've found it crucial to balance confidence with empathy and communicate clearly to navigate this. Additionally, I've learned that being well-informed is key when working with new vendors, as it helps ensure productive conversations and fair pricing. By demonstrating a strong understanding of the services or solutions needed, I can confidently advocate for the best outcomes and build strong professional relationships.

Have you faced any challenges as a woman in the industry, and how did you overcome them?

One of the most common misconceptions across industries is that women are “too emotional,” as if emotion leads to irrational decision-making rather than strategic insight. But here’s the truth: emotion is a strength, and it should be unapologetically exercised as such.

Early in my career, I learned that my ability to feel deeply and connect emotionally isn’t a weakness—it’s an asset. Storytelling is at the heart of marketing, and women often excel at it because we intuitively understand the emotional nuances that make a narrative compelling. Once I recognized the competitive advantage, I leaned into it.

What advice would you give to young women looking to enter this field?

The idea that we should never take "no" for an answer sounds empowering, but in practice, it’s actually terrible advice. Sometimes, hearing "no" forces you to refine your approach, consider alternatives, and ultimately deliver something better. You will be told no, and if you don’t learn when to accept it and pivot, you’ll burn out fast.

Marketing is a long game. ROI isn’t always immediate or clear-cut; success often comes from patience, persistence, and adaptability. This is especially true if you’re cutting your teeth in an agency setting, juggling multiple clients, personalities, and expectations. Learning when to fight and when to yield comes with practice.

And just as important as advocating for yourself is respecting the time and needs of your colleagues. Nothing worth celebrating happens from one solo effort. If you need something from someone, ask and give of yourself when you can. You never know when you will need to call in a favor.

Be confident in your ideas, stand your ground when it matters, and surround yourself with mentors and peers who challenge and uplift you. If you can’t get up every day and look forward to what you are being paid to do, then it's time to make a move, because nothing fruitful grows in stagnant water.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

The most rewarding part of my career has been the sheer variety of experiences I've gained by working with diverse projects, places, and people. No two days are ever the same, and every project presents a new challenge, a new perspective, and a new opportunity to grow. Whether it’s problem-solving on a complex buildout, navigating relationships with different teams, or seeing a project come to life, the dynamic nature of my work keeps me engaged and excited. Being part of something bigger—shaping spaces, making an impact, and collaborating with amazing professionals—makes every day rewarding.

What advice would you give to young women looking to enter this field?

Work hard. Stay curious. Be brave. The commercial real estate industry is great for adaptable people who thrive with problem-solving. The best thing you can do is step outside your comfort zone every chance you get. Ask questions, take initiative, and don’t be afraid to take on challenges that feel bigger than you. Growth happens when you push past fear and dive into new experiences. The more you put yourself out there, the more opportunities you’ll discover. You might just surprise yourself with where you end up.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of my career is the opportunity to mentor and develop my team members, helping them grow their career with confidence. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing someone I’ve coached apply their knowledge, tackle a challenge, and succeed. Watching their growth—whether it’s making a tough decision, mastering a new skill, or stepping up as a leader—reminds me why I love what I do.

Have you faced any challenges as a woman in the industry, and how did you overcome them?

Yes, I believe women in any industry will unfortunately always face challenges – whether it's being underestimated, having to prove ourselves more than our male counterparts, or navigating leadership dynamics. However, I’ve learned that knowledge is the ultimate equalizer. My approach has always been to become a subject matter expert—study, research, and stay ahead of the curve. When you are well-prepared and confident in your expertise, no one can question your right to be there. I’ve also learned to speak up, advocate for myself, and make sure my voice is heard. It’s not about fitting in—it’s about standing firm in your expertise, work ethic, and worth.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

The best part of my career has been the people—getting to connect and support everyone from machinists to Vice Presidents and seeing the real impact I’ve had on their careers. Whether it's helping someone navigate benefits, advocating for employee needs, or fostering a positive work environment, I take great pride in ensuring people feel supported. Knowing that my role has positively impacted someone’s career or well-being is incredibly fulfilling.

Have you faced any challenges as a woman in the industry, and how did you overcome them?

Absolutely. Early in my career, I worked in a unionized, male-dominated manufacturing facility. As a young woman in leadership, I had to work twice as hard to earn respect and build credibility. I focused on being a reliable resource—communicating clearly, staying consistent, and proving my expertise through action. Over time, that dedication paid off, and I gained the trust of my colleagues, showing that knowledge and integrity speak louder than anything else.

What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial real estate?

I stumbled into commercial real estate by happenstance—starting as an intern while still in school. What began as an unexpected opportunity quickly turned into a passion. Over the past 15 years, I’ve stayed in this industry because it is endlessly engaging. No two days are the same, and the fast-paced, ever-evolving nature keeps me energized.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

The relationships I’ve built—with my team, our tenants, and our trusted vendors—have been the most rewarding aspect of my career. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about fostering strong partnerships and problem-solving together. On a tangible level, I love seeing visible results from my work—whether it’s a well-maintained space or a successful project completion