In response to the crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Goldie Initiative has adjusted programming and activities to accommodate stay at home order requirements. The following are just some of the ways, with so many of our programs dependent on networking and connections, that The Goldie Initiative has transitioned into a virtual community and continues to support Goldie Scholars and Alumnae.
“This is a time to stay connected… by phone/email/text. I am old enough to remember the polio epidemic as a kid….and short term interest rates rising to 23% within 6 months. Yes, I was in a deal at prime plus 2%. Sooo, stay calm, and besides listening to the news and family, talk to your mentors, or Megan, or Kelsey. We are your “extended” family. We care about you, and this, too, shall pass.” –Goldie Wolfe Miller
Exclusive Networking Opportunities
In April 2020, Goldie Scholars are set to meet virtually with Penny Pritzker, former U.S. Commerce Secretary and Founder & Chairman of PSP Partners, for a third year in a row (2019 event pictured above). The participants will have the opportunity once again to present their “Personal Value Statements” (i.e. “Elevator Pitches”) in 2 minutes or less, to an intimate audience of their fellow Scholars as well as Ms. Pritzker and founder of The Goldie Initiative, Goldie Wolfe Miller. Feedback provided during this pitch session helps Goldie Scholars improve confidence and develop their personal brands. Goldie Scholars are offered the unique opportunity to network and learn from two industry icons.
May is a time of transition for many Goldie Scholars; we regularly celebrate graduation at our Annual Goldie Scholar luncheon with Goldie Scholars, Alumnae, Mentors and other stakeholders. The program for this year’s Scholar Luncheon will move ahead as a virtual celebration of our graduates and a “Fireside Chat” with 2018 Goldie Gala Shero and Board Member Sheli Rosenberg, hosted by Goldie Wolfe Miller.
Mentoring
Mentors are more important than ever during times of crisis and economic uncertainty. The seasoned professionals that serve as Goldie Mentors have gone through significant down cycles in the market that have impacted their careers. Their advice right now helps our Goldie Scholars and Alumnae manage this crisis.
Goldie Scholars are also encouraged to ramp up participation in Mentorship Rocket during this time of isolation, in order to build and maintain important relationships. The Goldie Initiative is actively pursuing options to expand this highly valuable platform to be able to assist additional emerging leaders in the commercial real estate industry.
Connections with Goldie Scholars, Alumnae, and Board Members
In addition to maintaining a high level of connectivity through mentorship and networking events, The Goldie Initiative is committed to providing opportunities for Goldie Scholars to connect with one another, and even Goldie Alumnae, through regularly-scheduled “E-Meet and Mentor” virtual chats. Held weekly or bi-weekly since March 27th, the following Board Members from The Goldie Initiative have donated their time to discuss a variety of topics ranging from market conditions to job searching advice to self-care during times of crisis.
- Ankur Gupta, McDermott Will & Emery
- Elizabeth Hozian, Associated Bank
- Karin Kraai, Newmark Knight Frank
- Molly Phelan, Siegel Jennings
- Christa Sorenson, Equity Residential
- Jen Sweeney, Millbrook Properties
In addition, Goldie Scholars and Alumnae continue to connect in casual ways through committee meetings, personal phone calls with staff and “TGI…Need a Drink” virtual happy hours.
The Goldie Initiative will continue to support our Goldie Scholars through customized programming as described, as long as physical distancing continues. Thank you to the many industry professionals who have participated in our efforts to keep our future leaders engaged and supported during these uncertain times!
Questions may be directed to our staff team.
