What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of? I take immense pride in implementing an internship program that not only nurtured the growth of budding engineers and surveying students but also empowered our junior team members to assume leadership roles as mentors. This accomplishment signifies our commitment to fostering a culture of learning and development, reflecting our dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent within our organization, and that is something truly worth celebrating.

Who inspires you most? What qualities do they possess that inspire you? My mother is my unwavering inspiration. She courageously pursued the path less desired, selflessly forfeiting her own dreams to pave the way for mine. Not once did she utter a complaint, exemplifying the boundless love and strength that shape the remarkable woman I’ve become.

What are the most important factors women in your industry should consider when choosing a firm to build their career with? When choosing a firm, it’s essential for women to prioritize organizations with a history of supporting emerging female talent. The number of women in leadership positions is a critical indicator of an organization’s commitment to gender diversity and its dedication to empowering women to succeed.

Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight? “Merri’s expertise in recruiting, involvement in internship programs, and leadership in onboarding make her a valuable asset to our organization. Her contributions not only assist in attracting the right talent but also ensure that new hires are well-prepared to navigate the regulatory landscape and contribute to the success of commercial real estate and development projects. She is focused on empowering the next generation.” - Karen King, Managing Director of Administration at DiPrete Engineering.