Christine Hoffman ‘19

Christine Hoffman

Vice president of Hoffman United, a construction, property management, and investment company in Erie. Christine graduated from Behrend in 2019 with a degree in Finance.

About her job: I assist in creating and driving the vision for Hoffman United and oversee 170 residential units and 225,000 square foot of commercial space. I lead the real estate operations which includes oversight for the financial, compliance, and physical performance of all portfolios. I also supervise real estate acquisitions and interact with investors, customers, and community leaders.

Triple threat: I am a triplet and my two brothers went to Penn State, too. Paul graduated in 2020 from Behrend with a degree in Accounting and my brother, Thomas III, went to University Park and graduated in 2020 with dual degrees in Theatre and Hospitality Management.

A true (Penn State) blue family: My parents graduated from Behrend, too. My father, Thomas Hoffman II, is a 1988 Accounting graduate and my mom, Paula, is a 1987 Finance grad.

Why she joined the WEC board: As a graduate of Behrend, I feel that I have a responsibility to engage women and help them improve their career opportunities. I have had so many mentors in my life, and I want to give back to a school that gave me so much.

What she loves about her job: I really enjoy all the people I get to meet and make connections with. I also feel like I am making a difference in people’s lives whether it’s helping someone find an apartment, working on an acquisition, or mentoring new investors so they succeed and grow.

Most important traits for a professional woman to possess: Confidence is No. 1. We need to be confident in ourselves to lead and have an impact on others. Determination is also a big key to success. Finally, kindness. It really matters.

What she wishes every woman knew: You do not need to be the smartest person in the room to succeed. If you work hard and treat people with kindness, you will succeed. Also, get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Get out of your comfort zone. It’s always worth it in the end.

Recommended reading: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

On peaks and valleys: One of the best pieces of advice I ever received is to remember that the highs in life wouldn't be nearly as enjoyable if we didn't also experience the lows.

On mistakes: I make mistakes all the time, and I always learn something. Learning from your mistakes is a big key to success.

Favorite treats: Chocolate and popcorn.

Most interesting place she has visited: Qingdao, China.

If she had a whole day to herself: I would read a book, go to the beach, or go hiking with my dogs.

 

Christine is happy to connect with you and is open to mentoring. How to reach her: