Luncheon Summary

August 2026 Distinguished Leaders Panel

Submitted by Stephanie Jenson, JLL

CREW Charlotte Distinguished Leaders Panel: A Powerful Conversation of Insight and Inspiration

What an incredible August luncheon we had at CREW Charlotte’s Distinguished Leaders Panel. The room was filled with energy and connection as Tonya Brandon and Dionne Nelson shared their leadership journeys, moderated beautifully by Marsha Womack. Their candid reflections on navigating careers, making difficult decisions, and defining success on their own terms left us all inspired and equipped with practical wisdom to carry forward.

Foundational Leadership Wisdom

Both panelists emphasized that understanding comes before action. Tonya shared her commitment to the Law of Intuition, seeking first to understand before moving forward. This principle has guided her through decades of leadership decisions. Dionne echoed this sentiment, calling intuition a superpower and stressing the importance of having command of what the work truly requires. Their shared message was clear: technical expertise matters, but so does the wisdom to know when and how to apply it.

Redefining Success and Balance

One of the most powerful themes of the day centered on how we define and pursue success. Tonya offered a memorable framework: know the difference between your rubber balls and crystal balls. Some things bounce back when dropped; others shatter. She also challenged us to consider whether our service to others includes service to ourselves, and reminded us not to overstay our welcome in roles that no longer bring us joy.

When discussing work-life balance, Dionne posed a question that resonated throughout the room: Is balance ever really even? Rather than striving for perfect equilibrium, she encouraged us to do what feels right in each moment. The panelists acknowledged that demanding careers and home life may always create tension, but that navigating it with intention and self-awareness makes all the difference.

People Make All the Difference

Throughout the evening, both panelists returned to one central truth: people make all the difference in the experience. Whether navigating career transitions, weathering difficult seasons, or celebrating victories, the relationships we build and nurture determine the quality of our professional lives. Dionne’s emphasis on this principle served as a reminder that technical skills open doors, but authentic connections sustain us through the journey.

Looking Forward

As our panelists shared their visions for the future of commercial real estate, one theme emerged: the industry needs leaders who combine expertise with empathy, strategy with authenticity, and ambition with self-awareness. We left equipped not just with strategies for advancement, but with permission to define success on our own terms.

June 2026 Luncheon: Charlotte by Design | A Conversation with Monica Holmes on Growth, Development & the Future of the City

Submitted by Stephanie Jenson, JLL

CREW Charlotte had the honor of hosting Monica Holmes, Director of Planning, Design & Development for the City of Charlotte at our June luncheon. She presented the city’s strategic approach to managing rapid growth while preserving neighborhood character and promoting equity.

Charlotte stands at a critical juncture, with major mobility investments on the horizon and a strong planning foundation established through frameworks like the 1994 Centers, Corridors & Wedges strategy, the 2021 Charlotte Future 2040 plan, and the 2022 Mobility Investment plan targeting 50% of trips via non-car modes by 2040.

The Planning, Design & Development department emphasizes a shift from “deal-making” to “plan-making,” prioritizing coordinated investment and community-driven outcomes over reactive development. Their strategy focuses on creating complete, connected, walkable places along transit corridors including the Blue, Silver, Red, and Gold Lines.

The Transit+ Community approach centers on reducing displacement, expanding housing affordability, supporting legacy businesses, and strengthening neighborhood stability. Success will be measured through inclusive communities, transit-supported neighborhoods, vibrant walkable places, and expanded access to opportunity. This approach demonstrates that growth can create great places while maintaining Charlotte’s unique identity and charm.

March 2026 Luncheon: Fireside Chat with Cathy Bessant

Submitted by Davina Thorpe, LeChase Construction

CREW Charlotte recently hosted a dynamic fireside chat with Cathy Bessant, who shared thoughtful perspectives on leadership, community impact, and the future growth of Charlotte.

When asked what keeps her up at night regarding Charlotte’s rapid growth, Bessant pointed to the strain it places on the city’s school systems and infrastructure. Yet she expressed confidence in Charlotte’s ability to navigate these challenges, describing it as a “Can-Do City.” She encouraged attendees to continue investing in the region, noting that Charlotte is a place where the time, resources, and energy you invest will return many times over.

The conversation also addressed one of the city’s most pressing issues—affordable and low-income housing. Bessant highlighted the importance of better navigating existing services and expanding preventative efforts around mental health, reminding the audience that approximately 3,500 individuals experience homelessness in Charlotte each night.

Throughout the discussion, Bessant emphasized that today’s challenges will ultimately be solved by people, underscoring the importance of leadership rooted in listening and empathy. She shared that one of the most underestimated leadership skills is the ability to listen without judgment, noting that she has even stopped taking notes in meetings to remain fully present in conversations. 

Bessant also reflected on lessons learned throughout her career. A defining professional moment came early on when she received difficult feedback after a demotion, which prompted her to focus not only on what she was accomplishing, but how she was showing up as a leader. That experience led to important course corrections that strengthened her leadership approach and authenticity.

She also shared insights from a leadership conference where she climbed Mount Jara, preparing by walking home from Bank of America with weights in her backpack. The experience taught her that while her body was capable, it was often her mind that questioned her abilities. At a difficult moment on the climb, her guide encouraged her with the words: “I know what you can do, so go do it.”

Finally, Bessant discussed her transition from Bank of America to Foundation For The Carolinas, emphasizing that leadership principles remain universal across industries. Whether leading a business or a nonprofit organization, success ultimately comes down to strong leadership and being thoughtful about the people you bring onto your team.

The conversation served as a powerful reminder that Charlotte’s future will continue to be shaped by leaders willing to listen, prepare, and invest in the people and communities that drive meaningful progress.

February 2026 Luncheon: “US Economic Outlook” with Anna Kovner

Submitted by Stephanie Jenson, JLL

CREW Charlotte was privileged to host Anna Kovner from the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond at February’s luncheon, for an insightful presentation on current national economic conditions.

Kovner described the current economy as a “Tale of Two Economies,” highlighting significant divergences across key indicators. While GDP remains strong driven by productivity gains and resilient consumer spending, employment data presents a mixed picture with unemployment at 4.4% and the emergence of new economic phenomena like “jobless boom” and “job hugging”.

An encouraging development is inflation data showing continued stabilization, with housing playing a particularly helpful role in disinflation trends. However, challenges persist for small businesses and lower-income consumers who face ongoing financial pressures.

Looking ahead in 2026, Kovner outlined both tailwinds and headwinds, including potential tax cuts and deregulation as positives, balanced against policy uncertainty and demographic challenges from an aging workforce. The productivity pickup continues to be a bright spot, offering hope for sustained economic growth.

This comprehensive economic overview provided valuable insights for Charlotte’s commercial real estate professionals navigating current market conditions.

Participate in the Richmond Fed’s Monthly Business Surveys

The Federal Reserve relies on accurate, timely data to understand economic trends, inform policy decisions and support the well-being of our nation’s economy.  Each month, the Richmond Fed surveys businesses across its region to provide perspectives on current business activity and expected changes in economic conditions. This timely, “on the ground” information helps ensure the Richmond Fed leaders and economists have real-time data to inform the nation’s monetary policy to promote our economic goals of maximum employment, stable prices and moderate long-term interest rates.

Who Should Participate

• Large, medium or small businesses in our region, which includes Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, part of West Virginia and Washington, D.C.

Why You Should Participate

• Fast and Easy: Surveys only take an estimated seven minutes to complete. Monthly survey links are emailed directly to participants, who then have two weeks to complete the survey.
• Important: Survey results inform Richmond Fed leadership when deciding the nation’s monetary policy. This data is also used by researchers and publications to show current economic conditions.
• Additional Benefits: Survey participants are invited to attend quarterly webinar events and will receive aggregated survey results monthly.

Interested in participating? Submit your contact information to using this survey sign up form. If you have any questions, contact Richmond Fed survey director Jason Kosakow at Jason.Kosakow@rich.frb.org.

CREW Charlotte’s January 2026 Luncheon with CMPD’s Chief Estella D. Patterson

Submitted by Davina Thorpe

At CREW Charlotte’s first luncheon of 2026, Chief Estella Patterson of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department delivered an inspiring message on leadership shaped by resilience, intention, and collaboration. Her remarks reflected several of Colin Powell’s well-known leadership principles, offering timely guidance for leaders navigating complexity and change.

Chief Patterson encouraged attendees to keep challenges in perspective, reminding us that “It ain’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning.” She acknowledged the realities of frustration in leadership while reinforcing the importance of “Get mad, then get over it,” urging leaders to move forward with clarity and purpose.

Her message emphasized confidence and perseverance through the belief that “It can be done,” paired with thoughtful decision-making and accountability—“Be careful what you choose, you may get it.” Throughout her remarks, she underscored that “Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier,” especially when leaders intentionally create space for others.

Chief Patterson closed with a powerful reminder that progress is never achieved alone. By lifting as we climb, sharing access, and leading with gratitude and humility, leaders can create meaningful, lasting impact—together.

Support the CMPD Foundation

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Foundation is an independent non-profit that invests in creating a safer community by supporting efforts to pilot new strategies and improve officer safety and effectiveness, while promoting trust in and support of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department in our community.

The generous support of organizations and individuals make it possible for our Foundation to continue to grow our support of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, making our community a safer place to live. We focus our support in building community, providing investments in equipment, technology and training, improving employee morale, increasing employee health, safety and wellness, and investing in recruitment and retention.

You can donate online, via mail, PayPal or Venmo. For more information, please visit: :www.charlottepolicefoundation.org

CREW Charlotte December 2025 Impact Awards Luncheon: “Work Smarter, Not Harder” with Dawn Chanland

Submitted by Keiko Pace, Stephens Office

The luncheon presentation, “Working Smarter, Not Harder,” delivered by Dr. Dawn Chanland, focused on redefining productivity through intentional choices that maximize value, energy, and personal well-being. Rather than equating hard work with long hours or constant activity, the session encouraged attendees to reflect on how effectively their efforts aligned with organizational priorities and personal goals. The core message emphasized that smart work was not merely about efficiency—it was about strategic impact and life balance.

During the session, Dr. Chanland introduced the Five A’s of Working Smarter:

1. Attuned to Impact and Priorities,
2. Focused Energy,
3. Awareness (Self and Team),
4. Allies (Intentional Collaboration), and
5. Alive (Choosing You).
   Each “A” represented a dimension of professional effectiveness, highlighting the need to understand where one added the most value, use time and energy intentionally, engage in continuous improvement, collaborate deliberately, and protect personal well-being as part of sustainable workplace success.

CREW attendees were asked to self-score across these dimensions, which prompted reflection on strengths and opportunities for growth. The presentation offered strategies such as identifying high-impact responsibilities, managing attention more strategically, building supportive networks, and avoiding collaboration overload. Dr. Chanland also emphasized “loop learning,” encouraging participants to break larger skills into daily micro-behaviors, test new approaches, seek feedback, and refine their methods for continuous improvement.

Another key theme centered on the value of intentional relationships. Participants were encouraged to seek out energizers and diverse collaborators who enhanced creativity and problem-solving, while also staying mindful of over-collaboration that could drain time and energy. The importance of communicating expectations, and healthy task-related disagreement was also highlighted as a way to spark creativity and improve workflow.

The luncheon concluded by underscoring that working smarter extended beyond work itself. Choosing oneself—one’s health, priorities, and overall life design—was presented as essential for long-term effectiveness. Attendees were invited to identify a meaningful life priority for the coming year and commit to a concrete step to elevate it. Dr. Chanland closed by reinforcing that when individuals intentionally design both their work and their life, they not only improve personal fulfillment but also deliver greater impact for their organizations.

Working Smarter Not Harder CREW presentation

Impact Award Winners

Stephanie Jenson with JLL was selected for the Emerging Leader Award. The Emerging Leader Award honors a CREW Charlotte member that embodies excellence, spirit and energy in the field of Commercial Real Estate and the CREW Charlotte Chapter. In addition to being a rising start in their field of CRE,  this honoree distinguishes themselves through their involvement in the CREW Charlotte Chapter committees and programs, showcasing a proactive commitment to our mission.

Liz Etheredge was awarded The Carrie Sharp Power Connector Award. This award honors a CREW Charlotte member who goes beyond traditional networking to forge impactful, intentional connections among members and sponsors—driving business development and referral opportunities. In doing so, they also embody CREW Charlotte’s mission to elevate women in commercial real estate by actively supporting the advancement of others. This individual has significantly influenced one or more women by providing connections, referrals, mentoring, or opportunities needed to pursue and thrive in the commercial real estate industry.

Sallie Jarosz won the Leadership in Action Award. This award recognizes a CREW Charlotte member or sponsor who consistently delivers excellence and whose efforts advance the commercial real estate industry and support our mission. The award winner is trusted and respected by others, and is seen as a thought leader, change agent, and champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion. This individual sets and achieves the highest standards of performance, accomplishing superior execution and results.

November 2025 Luncheon:  “Beyond Automation: Leadership, Protection, and Creation in the Age of AI”

Submitted by Stephanie Jenson, JLL

CREW Charlotte’s AI Program Delivers Strategic Insights for CRE Professionals

The recent CREW AI program successfully explored AI’s transformative impact on commercial real estate. Moderated by Courtney Fain (JLL), panelists consisted of industry experts Jaime Dias (First American), Garrett Herbst (Little Diversified), and Pad Alce (AI Patent Law). They covered essential topics including AI implementation strategies, prompt engineering, and collaborative applications in project management and operations.

Key discussions addressed balancing innovation with responsibility, emphasizing risk management, data security, and ethical AI adoption. Participants gained practical knowledge on leveraging AI as a collaborative tool while maintaining transparency and accountability.

Key Takeaways:

• Approach AI as a collaborator, not just an input/output tool for building context and brainstorming
• Don’t fear committing resources to AI while remaining cognizant of third-party tools
• Focus on change management and strategic implementation
• AI’s future lies in amplifying human capabilities rather than replacing professionals

Thank you to our exceptional panelists for sharing invaluable insights on AI’s transformative impact across industries. Your expertise helped us navigate beyond automation to discover leadership opportunities in our evolving landscape.

To further your understanding and boost your AI collaboration, check out our Helpful Tools and Resources list.

October 2025 Luncheon: “Game Changers: Female Leaders Shaping the Sports Industry”

Submitted by John Garner, Charlotte Regional Business Alliance

At CREW Charlotte’s October Luncheon, attendees heard from Caroline Wright, Chief Venues Officer for Tepper Sports & Entertainment, and Donna Julian, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Spectrum Center, for an engaging discussion on Charlotte’s sports, real estate, and community ecosystem.

Caroline detailed Bank of America Stadium’s $800 million renovation, emphasizing Tepper Sports & Entertainment’s ownership structure and partnership with the City, while Donna shared insights on the $245 million transformation of Spectrum Center, a City-owned facility operated by the Hornets. Both leaders highlighted how tourism and hospitality tax dollars are reinvested locally through these projects, fueling Charlotte’s economic growth.

Caroline noted that Bank of America Stadium generates $1.1 billion annually for the local economy and supports more than 1,000 construction workers during renovations, while Donna described Spectrum Center as a year-round hub for NBA games, concerts, and community events. Both underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in maintaining world-class venues and positioning Charlotte as a national destination.

Beyond the numbers, Caroline and Donna reflected on leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Caroline highlighted the David and Nicole Tepper Foundation’s $10 million donation to food banks across the Carolinas, and Donna discussed her community involvement through Big Brothers Big Sisters and Blumenthal Performing Arts. Together, they showcased how visionary leadership and collaboration continue to shape Charlotte’s skyline, economy, and spirit.

August 2025 Luncheon: “The New Labor Landscape: How Workforce Dynamics are Reshaping the Market” with Laura Ullrich, Director, Economic Research at Indeed

Submitted by Stephanie Jenson, JLL

Dr. Laura Dawson Ullrich from Indeed Hiring Lab delivered eye-opening workforce insights at CREW Charlotte’s August luncheon, revealing how labor dynamics are reshaping commercial real estate markets.

The Current Reality The job market is cooling but stable and companies keep hiring, openings remain elevated, and layoffs stay low. Yet uncertainty looms large, with recession odds swinging from 22% in January to 45% by April 2025.

What’s at Stake for CRE Tax cuts and deregulation could fuel economic growth, boosting tenant expansion and space demand. However, tariff volatility and immigration restrictions threaten to slow business growth, shrinking your tenant pool and limiting space utilization.

Your Action Plan Smart CRE professionals must track tenant hiring trends, brace for persistent remote work impacts on office demand, and craft flexible leasing strategies. The Fed’s balancing act between inflation control and economic stability will directly impact occupancy rates and investment decisions. Understanding workforce shifts isn’t optional, it’s your competitive edge.

In this dynamic landscape, visionary CRE professionals who embrace workforce trends as growth catalysts will not just survive, they’ll thrive and lead the industry forward.

June 2025 Luncheon: “Soaring to New Heights: American Airlines Real Esate Leaders Driving CLT’s Aviation Powerhouse into the Future”

Submitted by Stephanie Jenson, JLL and Amy Jones, HDR

The CREW Charlotte June luncheon featured American Airlines’ Airport & Government Affairs and Corporate Real Estate teammates Tracy Montross, Amanda Zhang, and Reshma Soni. American Airlines, the 5th largest employer in Mecklenburg County, continues to demonstrate substantial economic influence in the region. The panel discussion included cost comparisons across major US airports, positioning CLT favorably among peers like LAX, SFO, and ATL.

Recent and upcoming facility developments showcase American Airlines’ commitment to Charlotte:

• American Regional Training Center – Opened March 2024
• PSA Back-Up Operations Control Center & Transition Headquarters – Opened September 2024
• PSA New Headquarters – Coming January 2026

The team emphasized the importance of efficient flight operations and facility modernization to enhance passenger experiences “from curb to gate.” American Airlines maintains strong development momentum at CLT, focusing on long-term growth strategies despite industry challenges.

For CRE professionals, these projects represent significant opportunities, signaling stable anchor tenancy from a major employer and driving demand for adjacent real estate development along transportation corridors serving these facilities. The airport continues to generate substantial revenue for North Carolina while creating commercial real estate opportunities throughout the Charlotte region.