Inclusion at CREW Chicago

Why DEI Matters to CREW Chicago

CREW Chicago is inherently committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion through our mission to advance women in commercial real estate (CRE). As a predominantly female organization, we understand what it can feel like to be the “only” or the “other” in a room. Because of that experience, we are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for women who have historically been underrepresented and excluded, as well as for people from other marginalized groups. McKinsey & Company’s 2025 Women in the Workplace study shows why this work matters: women, especially women of color, are still underrepresented at every level of corporate America, and many continue to face less sponsorship, manager advocacy, and career support than men.

We want all commercial real estate professionals to look at CREW Chicago and see themselves represented in our organization. We strive to ensure that every member and prospective member feels valued, respected, and able to participate fully.

Our DEI Journey

In 2020, CREW Chicago strengthened its commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse organization by forming our Equity & Inclusion Committee, now known as the DEI Committee. From 2020 to 2022, the Committee conducted a comprehensive review of how CREW Chicago could become more inclusive and better reflect the diversity of the commercial real estate industry. This work led to changes across the organization, including how we market ourselves, where we host events, and the topics and speakers featured in our panel discussions. The Committee also began to plan DEI-focused events and began incorporating DEI topics into all of our events.

In 2021, CREW Chicago elected its first DEI Officer to the Board of Directors. This role helps guide our chapter’s DEI strategy, support the DEI committee’s efforts, and ensure that DEI remains a priority in CREW Chicago’s board-level decision-making. The DEI Officer serves as a liaison from the Board to the DEI Committee, working closely with the Committee.

In 2023, CREW Chicago formed the DEI Working Group. In partnership with a third-party consultant, 25 CREW Chicago members completed 12 hours of focused training on organizational topics. Following a chapter-wide membership survey, the DEI Working Group used the training and survey feedback to identify priority areas for continued growth. These priorities were developed to help increase diversity within CREW Chicago and make our chapter more welcoming and accessible to a broader range of professionals.

In 2024, the DEI Working Group formed several task groups to begin addressing those priorities. Early outcomes included creating a new structure for membership due to improve accessibility for students and civic members, incorporating accessibility matters across chapter programming, and pursuing thoughtful partnerships with other CRE organizations.

In 2026, the DEI Working Group and DEI Committee were combined to better align and coordinate DEI initiatives. Working toward the same goal, the DEI Committee continues to evaluate how CREW Chicago can build a more diverse, inclusive, and accessible organization for a wider range of commercial real estate professionals.

Past CREW Chicago DEI Officers:
Lynn Smith, 2021-2022
Lisa Sweeny, 2023-2024
Megan Watson, 2025-2026

CREW Network and DEI

CREW Network is a united network of individuals with a culture of inclusion and belonging that inspires engagement, breaks down barriers and accelerates growth and collaboration for our chapters, members, and partners. We believe diverse voices enrich our business connections and drive innovation. 

We encourage all companies and industry leaders to commit to the CREW Network CRE Pledge for Action. When you sign this CEO driven industry-wide pledge, you make a public statement and send a clear message to your team, partners, and clients that you stand for women and DEI.