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Issue link: http://digital.themreport.com/i/1407257
32 | M R EP O RT An MReport Issue Featuring Five Star Conference's Awards Finalists What Others Are Saying "Tai Christensen's passion for mortgage diversity and helping underserved communities earn homeownership wealth powered her meteoric rise within CBCMA and the mortgage industry. Joining CBCMA as a Senior Underwriter in 2018, Tai was promoted the next year to Director of Government Affairs, where she has been a prominent voice in support of housing equity. She has since been named CBCMA's first-ever Diversity Equity Inclusion (DEI) Officer and National Spokesperson for the UHOUSI Initiative. In 2020, she was made a member of the American Mortgage Diversity Council (AMDC) Advisory Board and began 2021 as chair of the Council's Government Relations Subcommittee." What does this nomination mean to you and what makes you a good pick for this category? As a woman of color, I feel especially humbled and honored to be considered for this prestigious award. As a working mother of three daughters, I have tried to convey to them that anything is truly possible. This nomination proves to my children, and myself, that my continuing work in helping all people, including underserved and minority communities achieve the American Dream of sustainable homeownership, is making an impact within the mortgage industry. At CBC Mortgage Agency, we share the ideals and goals of equitable homeownership amongst all credit-worthy Americans. As the company's first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, it is my privilege to lead the creation of a more inclusive environment within our CBCMA family that is equal parts diverse, inclusive and compassionate. While this nomination is a great honor, I will continue my work building equitable homeownership opportunities for all individuals of diverse backgrounds. What Others Are Saying "Katrina leads Fannie Mae's efforts to collectively advance racial equity and access within the housing finance system and remove systemic barriers to safe, quality housing for underserved renters and homeowners. With more than 25 years of experience at Fannie Mae, Katrina collaborates across the company and with industry partners to set and achieve impactful long-term goals to further a more racially equitable housing finance system, such as advancing efforts to provider greater access to a wider range of financial services for underserved communities." What does this nomination mean to you and what makes you a good pick for this category? I'm honored to receive this nomination and to work at a company with such a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. My unique role enables me to wholeheartedly drive progress toward a more equitable and diverse housing industry, which includes deepening inclusion in our own workforce, in our technology solutions, with our suppliers, and with our industry partners. As a housing advocate, I draw both on my knowledge of the mortgage industry and my personal experiences to make the housing finance system more racially equitable and accessible for current and aspiring homeowners and renters. My grandparents taught me the value and lasting impact of homeownership. Despite the lack of access, my grandparents knew that homeownership would create generational wealth, provide stability, and build their community. Today, that property reminds me of our legacy, history, and heritage. It also motivates me to advocate and help the housing industry change. I appreciate that for many low- to moderate-income families, wealth creation starts with homeownership, and I want to help make that happen. The Diversity & Inclusion Champion Award Tai Pherribo Christensen Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer and Director of Government Affairs, CBC Mortgage Agency Katrina Jones VP of Racial Equity Strategy & Impact, Fannie Mae we are one This category celebrates those who have successfully broken barriers and helped lead the charge in developing a diverse workplace culture.