As we step into week three of Women’s History Month, we can celebrate the fact that three secretaries of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) have been women. The first was Carla A. Hills, who held her position from 1975 – 1977. She was also the third woman in U.S. history to hold a Cabinet position.
Next was Patricia R. Harris, who was the first African-American woman appointed to serve in the post. She held her position from 1977 – 1979 and in her role, Harris was successful at reforming the department and shifting its focus to fighting housing discrimination. In 1979, Harris went on to serve two years as the 13th U.S. secretary of health and human services.
Marcia Fudge was appointed to her position in 2020 and announced her retirement and resignation this month. She has worked to help low-income families, seniors and communities across the U.S. Prior to her role at HUD, Fudge was a U.S. Representative from Ohio for 13 years. She will be replaced by Deputy Secretary Adrianne Todman.
While we acknowledge there is still work to be done, join us as we celebrate the achievements of women in real estate. Let’s meet some of the leaders, the decision-makers, and the entrepreneurs here at LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, part of the Majestic Realty Collective.
Emily Burke, SVP Controller, Colorado
Q: What advice would you give your younger self?
A: Stay open-minded and embrace all aspects of life, even the difficult moments – it is through this that you will learn perserverance and resilience. Hard times don’t last, but the strength and growth it creates will.
Q: What recommendations do you have for other women as they strive for greatness?
A: There is inspiration everywhere if you take a moment to pause, observe, and listen.
Q: As students and young women starting in our careers, many of us envisioned ourselves in certain industries or roles. How is your current position similar to, or different from, what you anticipated for your career?
A: What started as a front desk position 22 years ago with Fuller Towne and Country is now a leadership role with an extraordinary company – LIV Sotheby’s International Realty. I’ve been given the opportunity for growth, both personally and professionally. My success is largely attributed to the support I’ve received from so many wonderful people over all of these years.
Lauren Crowder, Sales Manager, Cherry Creek and DTC
Q: Who inspires you?
A: My mother. Her unwavering strength, resilience, and unconditional love.
Q: What advice would you give your younger self?
A: Where does it begin! Believe in yourself and your potential. Take care of yourself, both mentally and physically. Forgive yourself and learn from any mistakes.
Q: What are some of your favorite events/places/activities to enjoy in Colorado?
A: Colorado summers are my favorite! Outdoor concerts and evenings on patios with magical sunsets cannot be beat.
Q: What recommendations do you have for other women as they strive for greatness?
A: Never lose track of who you are. It is so important to maintain a strong sense of identity and stay true to oneself.
Q: Who is a mentor or role model that has helped pave the way for your success?
A: Shannel Ryan. She has believed in me since day one and has been my biggest advocate while continuously challenging me.
Q: How have other women supported you through your career, maybe through networking, collaboration, or accountability?
A: Women need women, we need to support and cheer each other on more. I’ve had a very strong support group of women in the same industry for over twenty years.
Q: What sets apart the LIV SIR leadership team?
A: Support – both personally and professionally, collaboration with team members and our community. Resilience in a forever changing market.
Q: How do you set the tone for a productive and successful day?
A: Start with affirmations and gratitudes, always. It will shape your day and your life, personally and professionally.
Karra Lay, Managing Broker, Evergreen
Q: Who inspires you?
A: The people who inspire me the most are those I surround myself with: my family, friends, and colleagues.
Q: What advice would you give your younger self?
A: Do not allow the opinions of others to hinder your ambition to succeed.
Q: What are some of your favorite events/places/activities to enjoy in Colorado?
A: I have so many! I am a native and grew up on the Western Slope. Colorado has so many beautiful places. My family enjoys camping and being outside in the summertime. My favorite little town to camp near is Redstone. There are several family-friendly music festivals on the St. Vrain River in Lyons. Evergreen is a special place to spend the day, from hiking and paddle boarding to dining downtown.
Q: What recommendations do you have for other women as they strive for greatness?
A: It’s important to work hard and set goals, but it’s also crucial to surround yourself with people who motivate you to be your best self. When facing challenges, those who are resilient and persistent are the ones who ultimately succeed. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fun in there too!
Q: As students and young women starting in our careers, many of us envisioned ourselves in certain industries or roles. How is your current position similar to, or different from, what you anticipated for your career?
A: I knew coming out of high school that I wanted a career in the real estate industry. I grew up helping my father with his real estate business. I adapted my career path into management as I grew to know I thrived on providing support and consistency to an industry that can be chaotic at times.
Q: What sets apart the LIV SIR leadership team?
A: The collaboration that takes place every day. We have a culture of teamwork. From the leadership team down to our broker and staff associates.
