encouraged me to be an independent thinker and who taught me the importance of intellectual curiosity and fulsome debate. I began my career in the typical way for a young lawyer in the United States:  I joined a large prominent law firm and worked around the clock.  I then opted to leave the firm to work for a not-for-profit social service agency as its first General Counsel and to develop affordable housing for individuals with severe and persistent mental illnesses and histories of homelessness. I then returned to the private practice of law after five years.  The time I spent doing public interest work defined my career and gave me the specialized knowledge that clients have kindly valued.  I suppose it is a lesson in what happens when luck and support meet passion and determination.

Q: Tell me about a project or accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career!

A: I am immensely proud to have founded Dentons' affordable housing, community development and tax oriented investing practice and to have seen it grow to a position of national prominence.  It is a highly sophisticated practice that is dedicated to investing in and enhancing our communities utilizing creative tax structures.  It is reflective of Dentons' values and our clients' values.

Q: What are the most important learnings for you in leadership, entrepreneurship and mentoring others?

A: For me, the lesson of "authenticity" has been paramount and defining.  I am someone who, for a long time, sought external validation and approval.  When I learned that the only approval required came from within, I found the freedom to speak from the heart and I aspire to lead from the heart. 

Q: What advice would you give to younger women who want to succeed in the workplace?

A: Do not let others define you or your definition of success. And do not take "no" for an answer.  Rigidity serves the status quo.  Have the courage of your vision and your values but build a strong network of supporters, cheerleaders and team members for those moments when your courage fails you, which it will invariably do. Success is a team sport; and integrity, graciousness and resiliency will always serve you well.

Q: Luck and timing vs. hard work: Which one is more important?

A: They are all important, but I have always believed that she who works hardest wins.  For sure, work ethic beats talent, in my view.  

Q: What is your approach on the issue of fake news? And how can we equip our societies –and youth- to think critically, filter and process information?

A: When did the world become a place where the truth no longer matters? I find that so disturbing and so frightening, but I acknowledge it to be our new realty.  We have leaders who lie without compunction and who function without ethical constraints. We must hold them accountable for their words and their actions, and accountability must be a grass-roots effort. It cannot be left to the media or the legislature. It begins and ends with each of us. I think that is also true of empowering youth. I grew up in a home where all things were discussed over the dinner table and all views (and all people) were welcome. We must encourage our youth to ask questions, to challenge view points and to learn to defend their own views with fact, and that requires direct engagement on our part. Again, it begins and ends with each of us.

Q: What makes a Global Thinker?

A: A global thinker is a broad thinker who is not constrained by insular views or parochialism. It requires tolerance, openness and a capacity for empathy. 

Q: Anything else you may wish to add?

I am sincerely grateful for this opportunity and in awe of so many on the GTF Board of Advisors. I am eager to engage and to learn.