What has been the most rewarding project or deal you’ve worked on in your career, and why? A 276-unit ground-up apartment building for Harvard University Housing, targeting Passive House (PHIUS) & Living Building Challenge Core (Living Future) certifications. Being involved in planning to construction is rewarding, watching innovative sustainability strategies move from concept to reality. Seeing the team collaborate to problem solve & achieve bold goals, watching decisions take shape makes the project meaningful. With these practices, the building uses less energy and provides a comfortable living environment, supporting Harvard’s commitment to high-performance, resilient buildings.

What drew you to commercial real estate, and what keeps you passionate? I was drawn to commercial real estate because of the tangible impact projects have on communities. As an owner’s project manager, I enjoy guiding projects from concept to completion while balancing budgets, schedules, and design goals. Every day brings new challenges that require problem-solving and adaptability. No two projects are alike, which keeps me learning and engaged. Seeing a team come together to deliver exceptional results is what makes this work so rewarding.

What’s a challenge you faced early in your career, and how did you overcome it? When I started in the commercial real estate industry, my biggest challenge was having the confidence to speak up and lead in large project meetings with experienced team members. To overcome this, I focused on thorough preparation, ensuring I had a deep understanding of the topic and anticipated potential questions. I also prepared my own questions to drive meaningful discussion. By observing senior leaders and adapting and applying their strategies to become my own, I gradually grew into a confident and effective leader.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in commercial real estate? Commercial real estate offers endless opportunities to lead and solve problems. As a woman, your perspective is invaluable, so do not hesitate to share your ideas. Seek out mentors who can guide you and advocate for your growth, as they are an incredible resource in shaping your career. The relationships you build early on will continue to support you as you grow in the industry. Confidence and curiosity will take you far, and seeing how your work directly shapes communities makes the experience both motivating and rewarding.