Zafonte of Akerman receives 2014 CREW National Impact Award

Name: Beth Zafonte Title: Director of Economic Development Services Company Name: Akerman LLP Years in Commercial Real Estate: 30 In the last 12 months, which project, transaction, honor or accomplishment are you most proud of and why? I received a 2014 CREW Network National Impact Award at the October convention. To be honored on a national level is deeply rewarding. I received this year's Member to Member Award in conjunction with fellow NYCREW member Barbara Champoux. My work in economic development and packaging public incentives is a niche and people often refer me to their clients for this specific work. For someone to say to me, " Beth, I trust you to provide quality service and deliver value to my client so let me introduce you and Akerman." Well, that's the ultimate compliment. To win a national award in this vein is an honor that I am extremely proud of. What was your first job and what did you learn from it? My first job out of college was with the March of Dimes in Denver. I was responsible for recruiting high school students to participate in the annual walk against birth defects and obtaining local sponsors. I learned confidence by having to go outside of my comfort zone multiple times a day, day after day during this time. You have to be confident to stand alone in front of a gymnasium of sardine packed high school students for 30 minutes with only a three minute introduction from the principal, a seven minute film and a bunch of pledge forms to hand out. Fond memories and in hindsight, great training for working in real estate. What is your favorite quote? Indulge me two favorites please. 1. "There's a special place in hell for women who don't help other women." This is now a classic from Madeline Albright. 2. "You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you." - John Wooden.