Event Recap: CREW Orlando’s 2024 Celebration of Champions
CREW Orlando hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Celebration of Champions at the stunning Lake Nona Wave Hotel. The hotel’s Sculpture Garden was transformed for this year’s theme, “Through the Looking Glass,” inspired by Alice in Wonderland. The event offered a whimsical journey through an unforgettable night of celebration and recognition, highlighting a year of growth, collaboration, and empowerment in the CRE industry—a truly enchanting experience to remember. With dynamic leadership, inspiring accomplishments, and meaningful recognition, the evening highlighted why CREW Orlando continues to lead the way in advancing women in CRE.
A Year of Elevation and Inclusion
CREW Orlando’s 2024 President, Cindy Campbell, set the tone for the evening with an inspiring welcome address. Reflecting on a year of remarkable achievements, Cindy emphasized the chapter’s commitment to curiosity, collaboration, and inclusivity. From groundbreaking events to intentional networking opportunities, the chapter successfully created an environment where members thrive professionally and personally.
Special thanks were extended to the Special Events Committee, led by Alex Carrion and Paz Criado, along with key contributors Dorrie Knizatko, Angela Garzia, Henry Ramos, and Karen Kurta, for orchestrating the event.
Recognizing Emerging Leader
The chapter awards several college scholarships yearly to qualified students pursuing careers in a CRE-related field. This year’s celebration recognized nine chapter scholarship winners to include:
Mackenzie Riley: Pursuing a Master of Science in Business Administration at the University of Central Florida.
Mentor: Mary Pat Dunleavy
Sahari: Pursuing a Master of Science in Urban and Regional Planning at Florida State University.
Mentor: Lynne White
Peyton Recer: Holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Florida; currently pursuing a law degree at the University of Miami School of Law.
Mentor: Jackie Bozzuto
Natalie Bongirno: Pursuing a Master of Science in Finance with a specialization in Real Estate at The Ohio State University.
Mentor: Amy McCook
Jessica Irons: Senior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Real Estate at the University of Central Florida.
Mentor: Stephanie D'Amico
Manuela Fonseca: Senior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Finance at the University of Central Florida.
Mentor: Paz Criado
Caroline Kelley: Pursuing a Master of Science in Real Estate at the University of Florida.
Mentor: Natalee Gleiter
Ashley Hall: Pursuing a Master of Science in Planning at Florida State University.
Mentor: Laura Carroll
Ayanara Garcia: Pursuing a Master of Science in Architecture at the University of Florida.
Mentor: Missy Palasol
Celebrating Professional Excellence
The evening was filled with awards recognizing outstanding members and companies for their contributions:
Rising Star: Samantha O’Lenick, for her immediate impact and commitment to CREW’s mission.
Future Leader of the Year: Clarisse Gates, lauded for her dedication to mentorship and leadership within the Future Leaders Committee.
Mentor of the Year: Shanna Cole, celebrated for her authentic and impactful mentorship.
Co-Chair of the Year: Jennifer Swanson, honored for exceptional leadership on the Equip2Elevate Committee.
Company of the Year: Cushman & Wakefield and NNN Reit, for their steadfast support and collaboration.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Amy McCook and Ginger Simoens both celebrated for their resilience, innovation, and determination, turning challenges into opportunities and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.
Esprit De Coeur: Andria LaRocco, recognized for her enthusiasm and significant contributions to the Future Leaders Committee.
CREW Catalyst: Jackie Bozzuto was recognized for her commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Distinguished Leader: Courtney Keller, for her outstanding leadership and commitment to diversity initiatives.
Woman of Influence: Nicole Carolan, honored for her exceptional professional for significant contributions, mentorship, and advancing women in commercial real estate.
President’s Award: Angela Garzia was celebrated for her outstanding dedication to the chapter and attention to detail as Communications Director, leading to sustained growth and engagement of the chapter’s social media platforms.
Special mentions included the Economic & Community Involvement Award, awarded to the Lift Orlando Heart of West Lakes Wellness Center for its transformative community impact, and the Outstanding Networking Achievement Award, presented to the team behind the Allen Project and Beaumont Redevelopment.
Advancing Women in CRE
A highlight of the night was the announcement of $36,000 in scholarships awarded to nine exceptional women pursuing careers in commercial real estate. These awards reflect CREW Orlando’s ongoing investment in the next generation of industry leaders.
A Night of Reflection and Transition
Cindy’s heartfelt remarks concluded her tenure as President, reflecting on her nine-year journey with CREW and the transformative relationships she’s built along the way. As she passed the crystal gavel to 2025 President Dorrie Knizatko, the night symbolized a full-circle moment and a renewed commitment to the chapter’s mission.
Dorrie introduced the 2025 Board of Directors and celebrated the early commitment of 29 sponsors for the coming year, ensuring continued success for the chapter.
Closing the Celebration
As the awards and speeches wrapped up, attendees enjoyed the after-party in WAVE’s Sculpture Garden, continuing to network and celebrate the vibrant CRE community in Orlando.
The 2024 Celebration of Champions was a testament to the power of collaboration, leadership, and the shared mission to advance women in commercial real estate. Here’s to another incredible year ahead!
Stay connected with CREW Orlando by visiting orlando.crewnetwork.org to learn more about membership, sponsorships, and upcoming events.
Relive the night through photo highlights now available on our Flickr: