September Program Summary:
Legends Lunch:
Lessons Learned from Women in Real Estate
Guest Speakers:
Janet S. Davis
Senior Vice President, Leasing
Brandywine Realty Trust
Roberta Levy Liss
Executive Vice President
CB Richard Ellis/Brokerage Services
Barbara Mullenex, RA
Partner
OPX
Greta Perry
Vice President
Mark G. Anderson Consultants
Wendelin A. White, Moderator
Partner
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
September’s monthly luncheon, “Legends Lunch,” certainly lived up to its billing inspiring 200 attendees at the Capital Hilton on September 17, 2009, to witness several legendary moments.
Kicking off the event was the unveiling of the winners of the 2009 Crew Awards: Outstanding Impact-Wendy White, Annual Achievement-Kathy Allgier, Esprit de Corps-Bethany Allen, Rising Star-Jill Homan. The CREW Awards Ceremony will be held Tuesday, October, 20, 2009.
Next, the Community Action Committee (CAC) took a moment to recognize CREW DC’s 2009 partner supported organizations – Academy of Hope; District Alliance for Safe Housing (DASH); Jubilee Support Alliance; New Endeavors by Women (NEW); Our Place, DC; Suited for Change; and Thrive DC. In addition to raising $30,000 in donations this year, the CAC devoted many volunteer hours through such activities as collecting donated goods for the above charities and feeding the homeless at Christ House (a hospital/shelter for homeless) every month.
Then, the Legends panelists and moderator, Wendy White, Pillsbury Partner, took to the stage. In sharp contrast to the gloomy economic climate, the participants conveyed upbeat and optimistic messages. These “Legends” have seen it all and began outlining their tips and advice, even conveying some humorous stories, for making one’s way in a typically male dominated arena, such as the commercial real estate industry.
Moderator, Wendy White, a former president, is known for coining the phrase “CREW means business” and shared with the audience the story about how she was the first woman to wear pants in her law firm. She recommended being a match maker and visiting with people in this economic downturn. She also advised us to be confident-no matter the circumstances.
Panelist Janet Davis said that this is a time for opportunity and we are all fortunate to be in the Nation’s Capital. In response to a question, she relayed that it is an advantage to be a woman when doing a deal. She outlined that many times women are more effective negotiators and can withstand situations when their male counterparts are not quite up to the task.
Panelist Barbara Mullenex said that this recession is a game changer, it will change the way that people do business, and it is an opportunity for growth. She recommends having a good attitude and to always keep learning. One of the defining moments in her career was being asked to be a partner at her firm not long after returning from a three (3) year maternity leave.
“Treat people well your entire life” was a tip from Panelist Greta Perry. Greta exemplifies that idea as an integral participant in Christ House Shelter and in helping others she has met along her career path. She also recommended diversifying skills and getting a security clearance.
Having worked her way through the construction world, Panelist Roberta Levy Liss advised us to be an expert in something specific but to have a broad spectrum of knowledge about a lot of things. She noted that while she has seen 100% growth in sublet space, she is seeing less renewals which may be a good sign. Roberta mentioned that there are many ways a deal can be designed and subcontracting/outsourcing is always an option. On another note, Roberta said that keeping a sense of humor is key and so is trust.
Click here for a PDF list of attendees.
