WiA Speed Mentoring Mixer

A group of about 20 WiA women started the evening off with light beverages and snacks while catching up with their peers. They then broke into smaller groups to spend 15 minutes with each mentor, making introductions and soaking up all the career advices, guidance, and work strategies they can within the precious time frame. 

It can be challenging to find a mentor in our career that we feel comfortable with, has achieved what we hope to accomplish, holds a genuine interest in our professional growth, and makes time for us. I was inspired by each mentor who took time out of their busy schedule to share their journey and experiences with the mentees.  

Amongst the mentors were:

Zaida Basora, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C, Vice President at Huitt-Zollars
Jan Blackmon, FAIA, Executive Director at AIA Dallas
Lisa Lamkin, FAIA, Principal at Brown Reynolds Watford Architects
Lorena Toffer, AIA, Co-founder of CityLab High School
Susan W. Bliss, CSI, CCS, CCCA, SCIP, LEED AP, Principal of Specified Services, LLC

I can’t thank the mentors enough for taking an interest in us. I look forward to meeting each one over coffee for continued discussions, friendship, networking, collaboration while empowering each other, growing together and “leaning in”!  Also, huge thanks to the Stone Collection for hosting us that evening, providing refreshments and the wonderful gift bags.