Why did you join CREWBaltimore? What makes CREWBaltimore different?
Joining CREWBaltimore allowed me to not just expand my network, but to expand it in a meaningful way. I have been able to connect with women in the commercial real estate industry, some who do the same work as I do and others who are in completely different areas. All of these women have encouraged, inspired and mentored me.
How long have you been a CREWBaltimore member / member company?
I (Kaitlin Zarro) have been a member for almost 3 years. Whiteford, Taylor & Preston has been a member company since 2007.
In 2-3 sentences, what do you want CREWBaltimore members to know about your company?
With over 175 attorneys, Whiteford, Taylor and Preston provides a comprehensive range of sophisticated, cost-effective business law and litigation services to clients ranging from innovative start-ups to middle market companies to global enterprises. Our growing Mid-Atlantic footprint includes sixteen offices in Delaware, D.C., Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia.
Which CREWBaltimore event have you most enjoyed in the past year and why?
I really enjoyed Anirban Basu’s Economic Forecast. I appreciated the way that he presented the data and provided historical context in a way that highlighted that the information was complex but digestible.
Best weekend activity in Baltimore?
Baltimore Farmer's Market, visiting local breweries, taking walks and bringing a picnic to Federal Hill Park or Patapsco Valley, exploring Baltimore’s many neighborhoods
What are the benefits of women supporting women in the CRE industry?
It is important that women support one another and make room at the tables where decisions are being made. Being part of CREWBaltimore allows us to each do our part to give other women a seat at the table in the CRE industry.
Best book or article you’ve read that had you fired up to take on the day/week/year at work?
I was really inspired by Emily Harrington’s journey to free climb El Capitan. It was a great reminder that perseverance pays off.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/09/sports/emily-harrington-free-climb-yosemite.html
Which CREWBaltimore event are you most excited about this year [2021]?
I’m very excited for the Neighborhood Series! I love how unique each neighborhood in Baltimore is a diverse cultural enclave.
Tell us about a project, program or initiative that your company will be working on in 2021.
When the pandemic hit, it was important to us at Whiteford that we not only continue communication with our clients, but also provide value in a world that was seemingly changing by the day. As such, we created a
COVID-19 Resource Center which contains legal updates organized by industry, so that if you are a small business owner needing advice on the Paycheck Protection Program, a large company with questions on remote employment, or a commercial real estate firm with concerns about contract enforcement, there is a place for you to turn.
Answers provided by Kaitlin Zarro, Whiteford, Taylor & Preston LLP