Karen Simon, President and Managing Partner of Emersons Commercial Real Estate
- 1. F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 20 Must-Read Quotes by Photographers to Inspire the Photographer in You Stonehenge: A Saga Of Beliefs and Theories Pg. 36 Pg. 30 Pg. 10 Gloria Steinem: A Feminist with a Spine The Most Admired WOMEN LEADERS R E D E F I N I N G B U S I N E S S 2 0 2 4 KARENSIMON From Classrooms to Corner Offices Impeccable Ascent in Real Estate President and Managing Partner EMERSONS COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
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- 4. Utkarsh D. “You must give everything to make your life as beautiful as the dreams that dance in your imagination.” ― Roman Payne Dear Readers, In the dynamic landscape of today’s business world, where innovation, resilience, and transformative leadership are paramount, it is our distinct pleasure to present to you the latest issue of CIO Women Magazine: “The Most Admired Women Leaders Redefining Business-2024.” This edition is a celebration of the remarkable achievements, profound insights, and unwavering determination of women who have left an indelible mark on the realms of commerce and leadership. Our cover story features an exceptional individual who exemplifies the spirit of excellence in leadership – Karen Simon, President and Managing Partner at Emersons Commercial Real Estate. Karen’s journey is not just a testament to her personal accomplishments, but also an inspiration to countless aspiring women leaders striving to redefine the future of business. Her strategic vision, innovative approach, and commitment to excellence have not only propelled her to the pinnacle of success but have also paved the way for positive change within her industry. As we delve into the pages of this issue, you will encounter the diverse stories of women who, like Karen, are navigating the complex and ever-evolving business landscape with unparalleled skill and tenacity. From groundbreaking entrepreneurs and visionary executives to tech innovators and social change advocates, each featured leader brings a unique perspective that enriches our understanding of what it means to lead in the 21st century. In addition to our cover story, this issue explores a myriad of topics including digital transformation, diversity and inclusion, sustainable business practices, and the role of women in shaping the future of technology. Through insightful interviews, thought-provoking articles, and expert opinions, we aim to empower our readers with knowledge and inspiration that transcends boundaries. As we celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women leaders, we also recognize the collective power of diversity and the importance of fostering inclusive environments. CIO Women Magazine is committed to being a platform that amplifies the voices of women, providing a space for their stories, accomplishments, and perspectives to be heard and acknowledged.
- 5. Apple Faces Criticism Over Response to EU Regulations on App Store Competition Read More>> Toyota Achieves Record Car Sales in 2023, Undeterred by Electric Vehicle Trends Google Unveils Lumiere: Cutting- Edge AI Video Generation Technology BMW Z4 M40i Embraces Enthusiasts with Manual Transmission for 2025 Model Year Read More>> Read More>> Read More>> Everything you need to know about Drones Read More>> Ethical Decision Making: Navigating the Moral Maze Read More>> Women’s Leadership Roles in Various Industries Read More>> Empowering Excellence: The Rise of CIO Women Leaders in the Tech World Read More>>
- 7. Gloria Steinem: A Feminist with a Spine 10 First Lady Women 20 Must-Read Quotes by Photographers to Inspire the Photographer in You 36 Article Stonehenge: A Saga Of Beliefs and Theories 30 Monuments
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- 11. loria Steinem is a journalist, writer, political activist, and editor who dares to voice for women. GFeminism has been the talk of the town for centuries. Gloria spent her early years in a house trailer traveling with her parents. After her parents divorced in 1946, Gloria Steinem settled with her mother in Toledo, Ohio, and attended school regularly for the first time. Her mother was diagnosed with Chronic Depression, so she had to take up the responsibility for her health and medication too. After graduating from Smith College in 1956, Steinem went to India for a scholarship. She took part in non-violent rallies against government policy. In 1960, she began working as a journalist in the New York Times Magazine. She was a political columnist and she wrote feature articles. As a freelance writer, she was published in Esquire and women’s magazines. She co-founded Ms. Magazine in 1972 and has been one of the editors for fifteen years and continues to serve as a counseling editor. Her desire to fight for women's rights is crystal clear. Equal rights for all was her aim and objective. CIO Women Magazine | 11
- 12. Gloria Steinem has set up “social-cause-focused” organizations and contributed a lot the society. MINDMAP FORMAT with a summary 1. Women’s Action Alliance: It was founded by Gloria Steinem, Brenda Feigen Fasteau, Catherine Samuels, and others to provide resources to women working to change their lives by overcoming sexism and sex determination. Within a few months of its formation, the Women’s Action Alliance was receiving about two hundred letters weekly from women all over the nation seeking advice and information. 2. National Women Caucus: The group’s main purpose is to get women into power positions, women who are committed to the causes of other women who are going to just imitate the male politics as it has been practiced all these years. An organizing committee for the NWPC was hosted in Washington, DC from July 10 to 11, 1971. A count of 324 women was confirmed that represented 27 states and the District of Columbia too. 3. Women’s Media Center: To be able to reach the necessary goals, WMC strategically uses an array of interconnected channels and platforms to transform not only the media landscape but also a culture in which women’s and girls’ voices, stories, experiences, and images are neither sufficiently amplified nor placed on par with the voices, stories, and experiences. 4. Helped to establish Women Centric Organizations: The group created a network of feminist activists, coordinated resources, and led initiatives on several issues. The Women’s Action Alliance helped to raise discussion for a national agenda of feminist legislation, developed strategies for countering gender stereotypes in developmental education and helped open the first battered women’s shelters. 1. Women's Action Alliance: It supported and guided individual women, women's centers, and women's groups through various projects. 3. Women's Media Center: In 2005, Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan, and Gloria Steinem founded the Women’s Media Center, a nonpartisan organization promoting women's visibility and influence in media. 4. Helped to establish Women Centric Organizations: The WAA’s mission was to assist local activists through technical and communications support and through them, to create change on a national scale. 2. National Women's Political Caucus: The NWPC is a non-partisan U.S. organization dedicated to recruiting, training, and supporting women in government roles. 12
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- 14. Books: Besides the many books Gloria Steinem has written, her writing appears in many anthologies and textbooks. The poems and her writings in the anthologies have created a significant impact and have inspired many women. She has written several best-seller books and has been featured in many women-oriented magazines. Her paternal grandmother, Pauline Steinem, was the chairwoman of the educational committee of the National Woman Suffrage Association. Here is a list of her bestsellers: My life on the road: It is a book about how the early years of Gloria Steinem led her to live an on-the-road kind of life, traveling, listening to people, learning, and creating change. Revolution from Within: A Book of Self-Esteem: For a long time, Gloria has been a part of the social revolution against injustice. In this book, she decides to restore the self-awareness that the injustice has sabotaged- in men as well as women, across boundaries of race, religion, age, and ability. Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions: About this book, Gloria Steinem says this book is a great reflection on the struggles many people before have made to make her liberties a reality. She realizes very well that even in today’s times many women do not enjoy equality. Moving Beyond Words: The women’s movements which are carried on in the 1990’s, are scrutinized by Gloria Steinem in this book. She offers possibilities for the future, focusing on such issues as economic empowerment, women politicians, and life affirmations that affect women today. As If Women Matter: A series of thought-provoking essays on feminism brings out the many forms of disgraceful facts that revolve around it. Gloria Steinem has implemented extensive research on the subject in a developing country like India and many other developing countries. 14
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- 16. Some Interesting facts about Gloria Steinem: 1. Gloria’s mother was a writer too: Before the birth of Gloria Steinem, her mother, Ruth, had been a reporter and an editor for a newspaper. She used a male pseudonym so that her work would get published. Her husband gave her a penniless and nomadic lifestyle which she couldn’t bear. Resulting in her taking the tough decision of divorcing her husband and falling into depression and dependent on tranquilizers. Gloria had to take care of her mother post all these events at a young age. 2. She used to write sketch comedy for a television show: In 1964 Gloria Steinem wanted a short break from print journalism so she opted to write for a sketch comedy show named That Was the Week That Was, which aired on BBC. It was for the time being for BBC too. The 30-minute live show hosted by David Frost included satirical sketches about each week’s political news and featured celebrities like Alan Alda, Henry Fonda, and Gene Hackman. 3. Helped to establish two famous magazines: In 1968, Gloria Steinem helped launch New York magazine, where she wrote a political column and the occasional long-form content. During the December 1971 issue of the magazine, she headed the development of an insert titled Ms. that covered women-centric articles and subjects. She continued to work for the publication for 15 years and is still considered an important part. 4. Lived in the same building for more than half a century: In 1966, she lived in a rented apartment on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. She bought the apartment in the 1990s and purchased another one soon after. Till 2017, she was the owner of 5 such apartments in the brownstone building. The third apartment which she bought was used as a meeting place for traveling feminists. 5. Christian Bale’s stepmother: She got married at the age of 66 which was quite a surprise for the public. As she got married to a British businessman and animal rights activist David Bale, she became the stepmother of Christian Bale, an Oscar-award-winning actor. To her misfortune, David Bale tragically succumbed to brain cancer in 2003 and passed away. Awards and Recognitions: 16
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- 21. Impeccable Ascent In Real Estate FROM CLASSROOMS TO CORNER OFFICES: KAREN SIMON President And Managing Partner Cover Story EMERSONS COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE CIO Women Magazine | 21
- 22. lass ceilings may have lined Gthe boardrooms of real estate, but women are now shattering them with stiletto-clad determination. While the climb is steep, their ascent is undeniable. But the path isn’t paved with granite countertops. Unconscious bias, outdated networks, and societal expectations can be formidable foes. Yet, women leaders in real estate possess unique strengths – resilience forged in the fires of challenge, empathy that builds bridges, and a collaborative spirit that fosters innovation. They champion sustainability with an understanding of community and rewrite the rules with visionary thinking. They are building a more equitable and inclusive future, brick by empowering brick. Karen Simon, President and Managing Partner of Emersons Commercial Real Estate Tarrant County Division, is one such dynamic leader. Her journey is not just a story of success but a testament to the transformative power of shattering stereotypes and embracing diverse leadership. The future is not just built, it’s led – and women like Karen are at the forefront, ready to rewrite the skyline. Inspiring Transformation in the Real Estate Karen’s real estate journey started in classrooms, not boardrooms. With a Master’s from Texas Christian University and a Bachelor’s from the University of Texas at Austin, she initially thrived as an educator at Tarrant County College. However, family commitments and geography limited her academic progress. Undeterred, Karen charted a new course, landing at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, where she shattered glass ceilings in leadership roles. Fate led to an unconventional path to a real estate broker license. With explorer-like tenacity, Karen seized the opportunity, dedicating two weeks to meet the requirements. Marking the beginning of her illustrious career with a portfolio boasting over 900 transactions and 6 million square feet of building area. Beyond her real estate success, Karen remains rooted in community empowerment. As an Advisory Board member for TCU’s Adrian College and a Board Member of Jewel Charity, she has contributed to building not just structures but brighter futures. Karen’s story conveys lessons like success arises from navigating new paths, overcoming obstacles, and maintaining a steadfast dedication to creating positive change. Lessons that helped her become a transformative leader at Emersons Commercial Real Estate. Company and Services Born from the vision of banker and real estate professional Richard Webb and CPA and broker Matthew Price in 2004, Emersons has carved a distinct path in the ever-evolving commercial real estate (CRE) market. Their footprint spans over 7 million square feet leased and managed in the Dallas region, accompanied by a 9,000 square foot office showcasing their commitment to the state. Cover Story 22
- 23. Minimizing capital expenditures while maximizing returns for clients. Proactive Asset Management Leveraging market insights to minimize expenses and optimize tenant turnover. Market Expertise Crafting solutions that meet the unique needs of each client. Customized Solutions Helping clients streamline their operations and save money. Improved Efficiency Providing clients with the information and tools they need to make informed decisions. Data-Driven Decisions Emersons embodies a unique blend of experience, dedication, and innovation, solidifying its position as a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of the CRE landscape. 01 02 04 03 05 Company and Services CIO Women Magazine | 23
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- 25. Seamlessly blend leasing, maintenance, and tech-driven capital improvements for optimal NOI. Integrated Property Management Tailored solutions ensure financial clarity and informed decision-making. Customized Accounting Leveraging extensive networks to secure the best acquisition or sale outcomes. Investment Sales Occupancy optimization, compliance assurance, and value enhancement – all aligned with your goals. Strategic Asset Management Maximize occupancy and value through integrated leasing and marketing strategies. Expert Leasing Enhance asset returns and value with dedicated, seamless management. Specialty Leasing Program Data-driven strategies informed by in- depth market understanding. Market Insights Leverage expertise for a smooth, successful construction journey Construction Management Services: Maximizing Returns, Minimizing Headaches CIO Women Magazine | 25
- 26. Commitment to Excellence in Real Estate Karen’s philosophy encapsulates their central ethos: “Our clients are our partners.” She ardently adopts a client- centric approach, placing the customers’ needs at the forefront. While financial success is crucial, client satisfaction takes precedence. This commitment is evident in settling invoices before personal remuneration, showcasing a dedication to clients’ interests. Upholding integrity and a robust work ethic, Karen fosters trust through honesty and devoted service. Acknowledging the industry’s demands, she goes the extra mile for the clients, recognizing that real estate often requires unconventional hours, including weekends. This flexibility underscores their commitment to exceptional service. Firmly believing in surpassing expectations, Karen consistently exhibits her resolve to deliver results and outstanding experiences for clients. Shattering all the barriers as the first woman in Tarrant County’s industrial real estate, Karen blazed a trail for others. Here is a glimpse of her achievements. Sought-after expert, sharing her insights with national publications and local papers. First female broker to be crowned as the top industrial producer in Dallas/Fort Worth, proving her mettle. Honored by “Who’s Who in Business” and ranked #4 Heavy Hitter in land brokerage, showcasing her influence. Karen has been nominated twice for the Newsmaker Award for civic involvement, highlighting her dedication. Recognized for her lasting impact as one of the state’s leading figures. She is awarded by the Texas Women’s Chamber for her significant contributions. The National Diversity Council honors her as one of the most influential women in Texas. Breaking Barriers and Building Success These milestones paint a powerful picture of Karen’s journey, a testament to her talent, dedication, and impact on the real estate industry and her community. Cover Story 26
- 27. Success is possible, and the journey matters just as much as the destination. “ CIO Women Magazine | 27
- 28. Adapting to Legal Changes and Market Shifts Karen values continuous education, mandating 18 hours of learning every two years. This commitment ensures a deep understanding of evolving legal developments. She completes a legal update course biennially, staying informed about shifts in the legal landscape. She also participates in a broker responsibility course, aligning with Real Estate Commission guidelines. Pursuing industry excellence, Karen actively joins seminars and workshops. These opportunities offer valuable insights into market trends, enabling informed decisions. With a pulse on the market and a commitment to education, Karen navigates the ever-changing real estate terrain. Words of Wisdom for Entrepreneurs Karen mantra? Reach the pinnacle without stepping on others, for true accomplishment flows from making things happen without leaving wreckage in your wake. Women seeking their own business empires find Karen’s words resonating deeply. She urges them to don knowledge as their ultimate shield, striving to be the best-educated versions of themselves. Admitting uncertainty without fear, their pursuit of answers should be relentless. But knowledge, Karen passionately emphasizes, is just half the story. It thrives when shared and when it becomes a guiding light for fellow entrepreneurs on their journeys. Young women venturing into the often-daunting world of commercial real estate hold a special place in her heart. For them, Karen yearns to be the mentor she never had, empowering them to carve their own paths with boldness and grace. In the end, Karen’s wisdom is a simple map. It’s a map for dreamers who choose to build, not just climb, with integrity and kindness guiding their every step. It’s a map that whispers, “Success is possible, and the journey matters just as much as the destination,” she quotes. And above all, it’s a map that reminds us that even the loftiest goals can be achieved when we lift each other along the way. Cover Story 28
- 30. If you’re an archaeologist or a person who is fascinated with different structures and the stories or mysteries behind them, Stonehenge is a good option to study in depth. The pre-historic stone monument holds a supernatural anonymity. The unlikeliness of its construction the history holds more spookiness. Circular in shape, its outer ring consists of vertical sarsen standing stones. A lot of archaeologists and scholars are still looking for answers to their questions. The reason for the rumor of it being spooky is that the Sarsen stone which was used to build Stonehenge occurred as loose or semi-buried boulders. They are not connected in any way. A pre-historic monument, Stonehenge is perhaps the world’s most prominent monument. It is located 3 km west of Amesbury. Many researchers have suggested that Stonehenge was used as a cemetery for adult men and women for about 5 centuries. That time was the first two main stages of the construction of Stonehenge. It is said that the place was a cemetery for a selected group of people who were treated separately from the rest of the population. It was a powerful and noteworthy site in the Neolithic period. As per experts, 40% of the people buried there came from west Wales. Those people are also believed to have helped with the transportation of the stones and build the Stonehenge. 30
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- 32. Some Questions Surrounding Stonehenge: A lot of questions remain unanswered about Stonehenge. As we see the structure a lot of questions pop up in our mind. A lot of experts and archaeologists have claimed or stated many things about it. To date people are finding solutions to simple questions like how the stones are not connected, and if they aren't connected how do they stand up there? 1. What is The Great Fall? It is said that the trilithon collapsed over two centuries ago. Three of the largest megaliths are believed to have fallen and it was the first time that such an event was recorded. This is one in three such events in which the stones are said to have fallen at the site in modern times. 2. Who Built Stonehenge? The monument was constructed in distinct stages and the builders of it belonged to specific groups. The first group, the Windmill Hill people built large circular furrows and mounds. The majority of their burial mounds point east-west. Their roots belong to eastern England. They were the first hunting and semi-nomadic groups. They maintained a strong devotion to circles and symmetry. The second group, The Beaker people were thought to have originated from Spain, migrating northwards and finally colonizing in north-west Europe. Instead of burying their dead people in graves, they showed more accountability for death by placing them in small round-shaped graves marked by mounds called tumuli. It was presumed by archaeologists that the Beaker People were more warlike by behavior as compared to most of the tribes as they buried their dead with more weapons like daggers and battle axes. 3. Are humans not allowed to touch it? A few years ago, the Stonehenge was laser scanned. Each stone has suffered damage due to the hands of people. It has prehistoric carvings of axes on many stones, but most of them have faded away except for one particular one. The simple reason for not allowing to touch the monument is to keep it as it is. The human touch to it causes damage and changes in shape. 4. Is the monument an ancient clock? Stonehenge is about tracking the Sun through its yearly cycle. So it is perfectly set up to indicate the time of the year. The Astronomer, Sir Fred Hoyle, suggested a simple marker moved around the bluestones that would track the Sun to an accuracy of about a week. 5. How deep is it? There are varied stones of different sizes and shapes. The period since its construction is also long. The largest stone, known as Stone 56, goes 2.13 meters deep into the ground. Due to the weight, the stones have sunk into the ground. 6. Why the circular shape? The structure of the Stonehenge is astonishing for sure. The reason for it being circular isn't known. However, it is believed that the stones were placed carefully in line to track the Sun's movements to predict the time and seasons of the year. It is also believed that the structure holds some religious sentiments of the people who constructed it. 32
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- 34. He was a Wiltshire-born antiquarian who made the first drawing of Stonehenge in 1666. He also encountered cavities in the ground. Those were seen as pits and are now famously known as Aubrey Holes. His observations and other stone circles around Britain led him to conclude they were built by the native Britons. 1. John Aubrey (1626-1697): Stukeley coined the term Trilithon in 1723. He spent two and a half days taking over 2000 measurements of the planned monument. In this way he proved that Stonehenge could not be Roman, as by using their unit of measurement, the distance between the stones had produced fractions of numbers which he decided were laughable and without any design. 2. William Stukeley (1687–1765): Cunningston’s doctor had advised him to ‘ride out or die’. He took it seriously and started taking regular strides across the Salisbury Plain. He made way for 465 barrows in Wiltshire including the Bush Barrow. He did this with the support of Sir Richard ‘Colt’ Hoare over 7 years as he was mainly interested in ancient burial mounds. 3. William Cunnington (1754–1810): The Masterminds Behind The Monument: 34
- 35. Why was it built? We can only draw presumptions surrounding the making of an architectural gem. Aligning with the equinox points, Stonehenge composed heavenly events. During midsummer, the sunrise near the Heel Stone, illuminating the monument’s center depicts intentional alignment. The Sun dusks perfectly between the largest sarsen stones which indicates another deliberate set of arrangement. Stonehenge developed not only as a spiritual monument but also as a functional clock that predicts solstices. It is a testament to ancient inventiveness which serves as both, a timekeeper and a symbol of power. The area around Stonehenge: Stonehenge is famous for its grandeur and the sheer amount of time devoted to it for completing the construction. The area which was chosen to place it is of pre-historic importance. The barrows around the monument are not rare, but they certainly are for their unique grouped and dense distribution. The total number of barrows goes to 460, which consists of 6 types, namely, bell, bowl, disc, long, pond, and saucer. Constructed during 3600 BC, West Kennet long barrow- the largest chambered tomb in England, represented a prelude to Stonehenge. CIO Women Magazine | 35
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- 38. 1. 3. In photography, there is a reality so subtle that it becomes more real than reality.” “ “ “ “ When words become unclear, I shall focus on photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence.” If I have any ‘message’ worth giving to a beginner it is that there are no shortcuts in photography.” Photography deals exquisitely with appearances, but nothing is what it appears to be.” - ALFRED STIEGLITZ - UNKNOWN - EDWARD WESTON - DUANE MICHALS 2. 4. 38
- 39. 5. 7. “ “ “ “ Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still.” The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera.” What I like about photographs is that they capture a moment that’s gone forever, impossible to reproduce.” Your photography is a record of your living, for anyone who sees.” - DOROTHEA LANGE - KARL LAGERFELD - PAUL STRAND - DOROTHEA LANGE 6. 8. CIO Women Magazine | 39
- 40. 9. 11. It’s one thing to make a picture of what a person looks like, it’s another thing to make a portrait of who they are.” “ “ “ “ A thing that you see in my pictures is that I was not afraid to fall in love with these people.” Taking pictures is savoring life intensely, every hundredth of a second.” The single most important component of a camera is the twelve inches behind it!” - PAUL CAPONIGRO - ANNIE LEIBOVITZ - MARC RIBOUD - ANSELADAMS 10. 12. 40
- 41. 13. 15. “ “ “ “ It’s a world, someone’s face. When I capture it, I see the future of the world.” The picture that you took with your camera is the imagination you want to create with reality.” The best thing about a picture is that it never changes, even when the people in it do.” There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer.” - MALICK SIDIBÉ - ANDY WARHOL - ANSELADAMS - SCOTT LORENZO 14. 16. CIO Women Magazine | 41
- 42. 17. 19. A photographic portrait is a picture of someone who knows he is being photographed.” “ “ “ “ Photographers mistake the emotion they feel while taking the photo as a judgment that the photograph is good.” There is only you and your camera. The limitations in your photography are in yourself, for what we see is what we are.” Photographers stop photographing subjects too soon before they have exhausted the possibilities.” - RICHARD AVEDON - GARRY WINOGRAND - ERNST HAAS - DOROTHEA LANGE 18. 20. Images have the power to convey emotions without even directly speaking about them. We hope these quotes by photographers inspire you in your journey to becoming a better photographer. You can keep them to increase focus on your passion for photography. 42