I had the privilege of working with Rhea Williams and Karma Management for over four years. During this time, I learned how to be a professional in the workplace, how to be resourceful and solutions-minded when faced with challenges, and that you can personally succeed while also serving your community. Working with Karma was the best boot camp to launch my career. Since leaving, I have led community programs, raised millions of dollars for various organizations including UAB, and now work with The George Washington University in Washington, DC as a Director of Development for the School of Medicine & Health Sciences and the School of Nursing. Throughout my 16-year career, I still use every skill I learned from Rhea each and every day, and thankfully, gained Rhea as a life-long mentor. I truly would not be where I am today without her and Karma Management.

Working at Karma Management, Inc. was a transformative journey that began in 2017 and shaped both my professional trajectory and personal passions. Under the guidance of the remarkable Rhea, I discovered a profound love for architecture that has since become the cornerstone of my career. The experience at Karma was more than just a job; it was a nurturing environment where professional development and personal growth intersected seamlessly. Rhea's mentorship was invaluable as I learned the intricacies of association management, public relations, and event coordination within the realm of architecture and engineering. The exposure to a diverse range of projects, from exhibit openings, chapter meetings, and fundraisers, not only honed my organizational skills but also expanded my appreciation for Birmingham’s built environment. The dynamic work culture at Karma fostered my growth, equipping me with essential communication skills, professional etiquette, and the ability to manage executive boards and client portfolios. Moreover, being part of a women-led organization like Karma was a distinctive highlight, underscoring the significance of diversity and inclusivity in the A/E/C industry, demonstrating the unique perspectives and strengths that women bring to leadership roles.

Today, as a proud resident of Chicago and a valuable member of women-led architecture firm, I attribute my achievements to the solid foundation laid during my time at Karma. The multifaceted experiences and the profound passion for architecture that Karma instilled in me continue to fuel my endeavors, making every project a testament to the invaluable lessons learned under Rhea's mentorship.

My experience with Karma Management began in 2021 during the COVID pandemic. Rhea Williams’ ability to navigate the unknown with confidence created an atmosphere of optimism during such unprecedented times. I have had the privilege of being part of countless opportunities while at Karma Management, two of the most impactful; working with community leaders during the World Games 2022, and setting up, hosting, and breaking down the National Building Museum’s traveling exhibit, ‘Evicted,’ at the downtown Birmingham Public Library.

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My time with Karma Management has been nothing short of transformative, shaping my mindset around success and of course, good karma. Rhea Williams consistently emphasized the importance of not only achieving professional milestones but doing so with integrity, empathy, and a sense of responsibility to the community. Her investment in each of her employees/mentees goes beyond typical, reflecting a genuine commitment to seeing each individual thrive. My time at Karma Management has been instrumental in my growth as a professional and as an individual. The lessons instilled in me during my time at Karma continue to guide my decisions and actions, both in my career and personal life. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity, support, and inspiration provided by Rhea Williams and am proud to carry these lessons learned into my future endeavors.

I had the pleasure of working for Karma as my first job out of college. Not only did I learn how to coexist in an office environment, but I also honed skills learned at UAB: communications, digital marketing, social media, program management and more. It is unique to find a role where you can be a newbie and a leader at the same time. Karma gave me confidence to really express myself in the workplace—I felt my ideas were heard and valued. I also gained a new appreciation for the built environment and design professionals. It’s tough to find that first role, and I am so grateful Karma took a chance on this new grad. Like most things, you’ll get what you put into it. Karma changed my life!