Here are the Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate for 2026 Article originally posted on AZ Big Media on July 2, 2026 In commercial real estate, success is often measured in square footage, skyline-changing developments and transactions that reshape communities. But for many of Arizona’s Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate for 2026 — selected from a field of more than 2,200 women under consideration — legacy means something far more enduring: people. Ask these leaders what they hope to leave behind, and their answers reveal a shared vision rooted not simply in professional achievement, but in mentorship, opportunity, resilience and purpose. Their aspirations reflect an industry evolving beyond deals and developments into one focused on lasting human impact. For Suzanne Fallender, vice president of Global Impact & Sustainability at Prologis, legacy begins with responsibility — proving that sustainability is not just an environmental ideal, but a business imperative. “I hope to demonstrate that integrating sustainability strategies into core business operations not only creates positive environmental and social impact but also drives long-term business value and resilience,” Fallender says. Her vision extends beyond buildings and balance sheets. She is equally passionate about helping professionals across finance, development, construction, leasing and operations integrate sustainability into their own careers, creating pathways for the next generation of leaders to make meaningful contributions. Others define legacy through relationships and trust. Emily Currie, associate vice president at Colliers, hopes to be remembered as someone who elevated the commercial real estate experience itself — helping clients make decisions that not only strengthened businesses and investments but also improved communities. “I hope to be remembered not only as a top-producing broker, but as a trusted advisor who opened doors for others,” Currie says. For Currie, perseverance, authenticity and hard work are not just personal values — they are the blueprint for creating influence that lasts long after a deal closes. That people-first mindset resonates deeply with Anna Madrid, executive vice president of Derek Builders, who sees leadership as something measured by growth — not only organizational growth, but personal growth. “I want to be remembered as a leader who built more than successful businesses,” Madrid says. “I want to be known for creating opportunities, empowering others to reach their potential, and leading with integrity, energy, and purpose.” Her vision of success centers on building stronger teams, cultivating lasting relationships and creating workplaces where people feel valued, challenged and inspired. For Madrid, the most important structures leaders build are often invisible — trust, culture and confidence. Mentorship also sits at the center of Carol Schillne’s aspirations. The senior vice president at Orion Investment Real Estate hopes her legacy will be defined by encouragement and helping others recognize what is possible for themselves. “We spend so much of our lives working, so it’s important to build a career that brings purpose, energy and fulfillment,” Schillne says. She hopes to create opportunities not only for future professionals, but also for her two sons, building a business where others can grow, succeed and thrive. For Jennifer Villalobos, senior associate at Cushman & Wakefield, legacy means removing barriers. “I hope to be remembered as someone who opened doors rather than guarded them,” Villalobos says. Her goal is to create opportunities for minority professionals in industries that have historically lacked diversity and inclusion, proving that leadership can be rooted in authenticity, compassion and service. Together, these women reflect a powerful truth about leadership in commercial real estate: While buildings may define skylines, people define legacies. The most influential leaders are not remembered solely for what they built, but for whom they empowered, inspired and elevated along the way. Here are the Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate for 2026 From a field of more than 2,200 women under consideration, here are the Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate for 2026, as selected by the editorial board of AZRE magazine and a panel of 12 former Most Influential Women. The Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate for 2026 will be honored at a celebratory dinner on Aug. 20, 2026, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix. The Spotlight Award Sponsor for the Most Influential Women of 2026 is CORE Construction, the Special Gift Sponsor is Tarbell’s, the VIP Sponsor is GCON, the VIP Reception Sponsor is Cullum Homes, the Cover Photo Shoot Sponsor is Greenberg Traurig, the Beverage Sponsor is Arizona Escrow & Financial, the Valet Sponsor in Stevens-Leinweber, the Floral Sponsor is PCL Construction, the Dessert Sponsor is SottoPelle and Tutera Medical, the 360 Photo Booth Sponsor is Clayco, the Step-and -Repeat Sponsor is Morris Hall, the Digital Sponsor is Desert Diamond Casinos, the Floral Provider is PJs Flowers and the Production Sponsor is Merestone.