Post by Black, Mann & Graham LLP

Throwback Thursday: BMG Team Invests Time, Talent in Building a Strong Real Estate Finance Industry   We believe that serving our clients also means investing in the strength of our industry. Our firm was built on a foundation of service that began with our founding partners. As we celebrated our 25-year anniversary last year, we asked Calvin Mann Jr for his insights on service. On this Throwback Thursday, we are sharing his responses, which could serve as a playbook for us all:    What first inspired you to step outside your day-to-day role and get involved with industry organizations—and how did that decision align with BMG's core values like Customer Focus?   "The desire to complete the circle by giving time and money to the industry that has supported BMG, and in the process, helped BMG and local and state chapters of bankers and brokers -- and the national level, such as the Mortgage Bankers Association, sustain and grow."   How has your involvement and membership in industry organizations helped you achieve our core value of Continuous Improvement?   "Continuous improvement emanates from the constant honing of your craft; involvement and support of the mortgage industry is a great way to help achieve continuous improvement."   Can you share a moment when your advocacy or participation in an industry group made a meaningful impact on an issue facing our industry?   "My involvement with the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association, in my opinion, led to my most meaningful contribution to the industry, namely, lobbying for and helping write the constitutional amendment that authorized home equity lending in the state of Texas."   How would you draw from your experience as an industry advocate—locally, statewide, and nationally—to advise a new colleague or professional who wants to contribute to the future of our industry?   "To any new colleague the best advice I can give is to invest early and often in supporting the industry that supports you. Support with your time by serving on committees, director, and officer positions, attending various events such as lobby days at the state and national levels, and support industry organizations financially. Remember, you get out what you put in."   How has BMG's culture and leadership shaped and guided you as an advocate with an industry service focus?   "The principles on which BMG stands, when followed, will naturally lead you to giving back with your time, your talents, and your financial support. Keep BMG principles by your side; they will carry you to your place in the industry. Remember, your most precious asset is your reputation; it is up to you to see that it flourishes."   Giving back to the real estate finance industry is important to us. From advocacy to mentorship to supporting local, state and national organizations, our team is proud to do our part to move the industry forward.