Annual Perspectives Lecture Lays New Foundations
On November 8th, close to 300 guests attended the Perspectives Lecture hosted by the Schulich Real Property Alumni Association and the Brookfield Centre in Real Estate & Infrastructure at the Park Hyatt Toronto. Titled “Patire per Capire: Foundation Building Thoughts from an Immigrant’s Daughter”, this year’s keynote was delivered by Toni Rossi, President, Real Estate of Infrastructure Ontario.
Following the networking reception, Rossi delivered a moving presentation on her 35-year career in real estate. In her keynote address, Rossi explained how her childhood experiences gave rise to her unwavering values and optimistic opinion of Canada. Rossi’s remarks and advice were greeted with a standing ovation.
“Just like in the real estate industry, we are trying to create a community and business where people want to gather,” said Rossi. “So, make sure your house and your kitchen are a place that welcome and host people.”
Other speakers included Schulich Dean Detlev Zwick, Habitat for Humanity GTA CEO Ene Underwood, Brookfield Centre Director Jim Clayton, Perspectives Lecture Chair Ume Kanga (MREI ’19), and SRPAA President Christian Petersen (MBA ‘13). Kanga and Petersen leveraged their time on the podium to launch a new SRPAA video and to champion the SRPAA Leadership Fund for Black and Indigenous Communities, an initiative which creates opportunities for promising young individuals from underrepresented communities to obtain their undergraduate business degree. Beulah Odoom was announced as the inaugural SRPAA Leadership Award recipient that evening.
“Year after year, it is heart warming to see the SRPAA community gather to meet, celebrate, and give back to the community like they do,” said Kanga. “Toni’s address was thoughtful and engaging and really highlighted the importance of family and community. The night wouldn’t have been possible without our all-star female committee and sponsors. Thank you to all involved!”
The Committee was comprised of Co-Chairs Kanga and Petersen and Schulich alumnae Jinny Tran (MBA ’20), Diana Arsenyan (MBA ’14), Tracey Hui (MREI ’20), and Preyaa Soni (MBA ’20).
A special thank you to Penthouse Sponsors Altus Group and Cadillac Fairview, and Mezzanine Sponsors Belmont Equity, Crestpoint, Enform Architects, RioCan, and Fieldgate, for their support.