Ventas chairman and CEO Debra A.Cafaro is a self-described working-class Pittsburgh girl who persevered to become leader of one of the industry’s leading REITs. Via the Goldie Initiative, which has named her this year’s Shero, Cafaro will share insights into her life, leadership and inspirations with her longtime friend and colleague Sheli Rosenberg in a virtual event scheduled for April 13.

Titled “CRE, C-Suite Insights & Penguins: A Lively Conversation with Ventas Chairman and CEO Debra A. Cafaro,” the interview will focus on the following areas:

• Women & Diversity – The Goldie Initiative named Debra Cafaro the 2021 Shero because of her unparalleled commitment to women leaders. What changes has Cafaro made that impacted Ventas and the wider industry?
• Ventas & COVID – Ventas is known for reading the market and pivoting its strategy quickly to adapt. Hear about the changes Cafaro made to address the pandemic and where she sees the med-tech industry headed.
• Sports & Penguins – Pittsburgh sports have impacted Cafaro’s career significantly. Learn how sports influenced her life and leadership.

The mission of the nonprofit Goldie Initiative is to prepare women for senior leadership roles in all sectors of commercial real estate.   The Goldie Initiative does this by providing scholarship support for graduate study, mentorship and networking opportunities to women with high potential who are committed to becoming the leaders in the real estate industry.

Pictured, above: Debra A. Cafaro. Below left: Sheli Rosenberg.