CUFO Supports CREW NY Panel on Social Equity Trust for MWL Businesses

Tanya Pope, Assistant Vice President of University Supplier Diversity, joined a diverse group of leaders and stakeholders in government, public and private corporations, industry and community associations to discuss sustainable and equitable solutions for minority- and woman-owned businesses (MWBEs) in commercial real estate at the NYC Chapter of Commercial Real Estate Women International Network’s (CREWNY) first Social Equity Trust. 

Created to address equity issues in the MWBE industry, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force of CREWNY believes properly formulated diversity, equity, and inclusion programs lead to increased profit margins, retention, and improved community and client relationships. Panelists dedicated to the advancement of women in commercial real estate analyzed strategies for creating a diverse culture in New York for MWBEs in terms of recruitment, hiring, and procurement.   

Among the expert panelists, Tanya Pope presented on Columbia University’s goals and success in supporting MWBE vendors through programs that increase spend and workforce for such firm's university-wide, highlighting the proactive actions taken to meet the University’s diversity goals for contracting and construction workforce. Pope showcased the construction trade mentorship program created to recruit diverse firms to participate in the University campus expansion, the executive coaching program, CU Grow, created for MWBEs and firms local to Columbia to grow their businesses, and the pre-apprenticeship training program created in partnership with city and local organizations to support minorities, women, and local residents looking to obtain opportunities in the construction industry. 

“This was an important first conversation among a diverse group of thought leaders about the difficult realities of social equity in our industry and Tanya Pope was an essential part of this”, said the organizers of the event. "As one of the largest real estate owners in New York City, a leader among national higher education institutions, supplier diversity, and community engagement, Columbia University's participation was among the key business and government leaders we needed."

Columbia University Facilities and Operations participated in the panel in support of the University’s commitment to working with and supporting diverse vendors. To learn more about CREWNY, visit: crewny.org.