What was your path to getting where you are today?
I’ve had a very non-traditional career path, from governmental public health to healthcare executive level management/leadership to commercial real estate. The recurring theme across my career has been that I always look for new and innovative ways to transfer my skills across industries and positions. I am a continuous learner, so I always seek to learn something from every position and experience so I’m always adding to the tools in my toolbox. Lastly, Leadership and civic service are at the core of everything I do; I believe that service to those less fortunate is the rent we pay for living life on this earth. When you give to others, it comes back to you multiplied.
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
“Sometimes before you take a step forward, you have to take a step to the side.”
What are some challenges you’re facing right now in your job or life, and how are you tackling them?
I’m extensively trained in disaster preparedness and response, so my natural inclination is to run toward challenges, not away from them. I tackle challenges head on, but with grace, humility, and the goal of learning the lesson that is intended to come from the challenge. My most recent challenge was losing my best friend of 37 years, who had been one of my biggest cheerleaders and closest confidantes since we were 14-year old high school freshman at Whitney Young HS here in Chicago.
What hobbies, organizations, or philanthropies are you involved in?
My hobby (up until last year) was watching my daughter compete as a high-level competitive swimmer and Division I collegiate water polo player (she graduated in 2023). When I’m not working, I spend time with friends, laughing, dancing and having fun. Also, traveling! I just returned from a 2-week trip to Europe, visiting Spain and Portugal with one of my closest friends.
Suzet is wearing the Loy jumpsuit in Black, the Harrington top and Hemsworth 2 skirt with the Obi belt in Tokyo, and the Lilou coat with the Ombeline jeans in Denim 24.
What do you love about being a woman?
I love the power, strength and resilience of women. I appreciate my ability to be strong and courageous, but also vulnerable when necessary.
What are you watching, reading, and listening to right now?
I’m currently reading Option B by Sheryl Sandberg and The Source of Self-Regard by Toni Morrison. I start everyday listening to gospel music, then I switch to R&B/Hip-Hop because, faith and culture….
How do you create a work-life balance for yourself?
For me there’s no such thing as perpetual work-life balance. Life ebbs and flows – sometimes I have to work a lot and miss out on fun things, but when that isn’t the case I make time for adventure. I also strive to take care of my health and fitness by strength training, running and doing pilates or yoga.
How would you describe your personal style?
Feminine, classic, and manicured with an edge. I also like to be unpredictable with my style, so I will wear pieces in very non-conventional ways. I’m also a huge fan of vintage clothing, circa the 1950s and 1960s. Designs were so elegant and classic back then and I love that any vintage article I wear is truly one of a kind.
Who are some of your style or fashion icons?
Jackie O., Gabrielle Union, Victoria Beckham
Suzet is wearing the Hendrix mini tunic in Grid 20.
What is the best gift you’ve ever received?
Life and my daughter, Joia. She was a true gift from God.
If you could live anywhere (and money is no object), where would you choose?
Chicago, Santa Barbara, Africa, Spain, Italy AND a tropical island somewhere; many homes in many places.
What is important to you when buying clothing?
Comfort, quality and ease of care are all important, but versatility and unpredictability are also important to me. I love being able to take a coat and wear it as a dress, or wearing a suit with shorts instead of pants or a skirt! When I’m attending an event, I don’t want anyone to be able to predict how I’m going to show up. The element of surprise with fashion is my way of having fun and expressing my creativity. As an example, I once found a beautiful silk shantung skirt suit in a vintage store. Instead of wearing it that way, I pulled the skirt all the way up and wore it as a strapless dress and carried the jacket in case I got chilled later in the evening. That was fun!
How are you dressing right now?
I’m currently dressing boldly and fearlessly. I’m embracing what the influencer girls have been saying since COVID, and “wearing my clothes”. The looks you get in the grocery store when you’re dressed up are the best!
What are your favorite Maria Pinto pieces?
I have so many Maria Pinto pieces that it’s hard to pick favorites. What I love about them all is the fit (they always feel tailored to me), the bold designs and bright colors. Oh, and that classic Maria fabric!!
Suzet is wearing the Reefer coat and Soma dress in Crane with the Horizontal belt.