Home: Tampa, FL. Birthplace: Boston, MA. Organization: Mortgage Bankers Association. Title: Chief Financial Officer and Chief Diversity Officer. Significant other: Randy. Alma mater: Boston University (MBA); Bentley University (BS, Accounting).
Recent recognition: Recently told by an employee that they would not be in the mental space they are now without my help. Recent professional development: Joined Innovation Women to expand my public speaking opportunities. Latest contribution to others: Coaching and mentoring several people. Hobbies: Reading and movies. Last book read: The Big Five for Life Continued, by John P. Strelecky. Recently viewed and recommended: Lincoln Lawyer on Netflix.
What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? True. Moral compass: My Christian values. How do you define a perfect friendship? Committed, loyal, fun; strong character, supportive, challenges you. What is your greatest joy? My grandchildren. What is your guilty pleasure? Sweets. What natural talent have you neglected? Creativity with photo imaging. What is at the top of your bucket list? Dubai. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Water to sit by.
What was your first paying job? Day camp counselor. What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Basketball. What movie have you repeatedly watched? The Bodyguard. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? Photo memories of my father. What’s the best advice you received growing up? You are a natural leader, develop that. What’s the best advice you received in your career? You’re invited to the table for a reason, find something to contribute. What personal circumstance has had the greatest influence on your life? The passing of my dad.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field?
Increasing diversity in the real estate finance industry and promoting financial education as a key to increasing minority homeownership.
What change would you like to see in the world? Elimination of racism and discrimination. What mega-trend most concerns you? Free speech that promotes say whatever you want, whenever you want, without discretion.
What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Gabrielle Union. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? My grandmother, whom I never met. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? With my family. What advice would you give your younger self? Family is always #1. Building relationships is equally as important as working hard. What day in your life would you choose to re-live? The day my dad passed away. What period in your life would you do differently, if you could? College. I would have more fun.
Personal mission: Use your gifts and abilities to make everything you touch better than how you found it. Favorite quote: “When people show you who they are, believe them” (Maya Angelou). Desired epitaph: She died empty.
