Introduction
Join us as we delve into the world of Nola McNeally, the talented general counsel at Edgewood REIT. With her expertise in transactional, real estate, and securities law, McNeally has played a vital role in the continuous growth and success of Edgewood REIT. In this article, we explore her journey and the key contributions she has made to the company's development.
In Growth Mode
As Edgewood REIT continues to expand its real estate holdings, McNeally's role becomes increasingly important. She meticulously drafts purchase agreements, considering factors such as lease terms, flexibility, and cash-flow to ensure wise acquisitions. McNeally collaborates with the seller's attorney, completing due diligence, land surveys, and title searches. Additionally, she carefully vets the parties involved in managing and operating the acquired properties. Furthermore, McNeally is responsible for maintaining transparent communication with shareholders and partners, aligning with Edgewood's commitment to its stakeholders.
"We're a very shareholder-focused company," McNeally emphasizes. Edgewood treasures its relationships with shareholders, many of whom are friends and family members who have invested multiple times. Ensuring transparency and fostering trust have become cornerstones of McNeally's legal functions at Edgewood.
Going In-House
Before joining Edgewood, McNeally gained valuable experience as a corporate lawyer at Fredrikson & Byron, where she had the opportunity to work with Edgewood as a client. When Jon E. Strinden, one of her law partners and a fellow graduate of the University of North Dakota School of Law, became Edgewood's first general counsel, he invited McNeally to join the team. Strinden's subsequent promotion to president led to McNeally stepping into the role of legal boss.
For McNeally, this opportunity allows her to strengthen her roots in North Dakota. Raised in the small town of Glen Ullin, she cherishes the values instilled in her community. Despite initially taking a different career path before attending law school, McNeally's experience as a paralegal prepared her well for the challenges that awaited her.
A North Dakota Journey
After completing her law degree, McNeally launched her legal career at Dorsey & Whitney's Minneapolis office. Later, she transferred to Dorsey's Fargo office, seeking a closer connection to her husband's home state. Fargo, with its 125,000 residents, offers a balance of urbanity and neighborly warmth. McNeally's dedication to her community extends beyond her professional achievements, as she serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, including The Cullen Children's Foundation and Dakota Medical Foundation.
McNeally's daughters have also benefited from their North Dakota upbringing, imbibing the same values instilled in their mother. As she journeys through life, McNeally impresses upon her daughters the importance of good behavior and maintaining a positive reputation. Being from North Dakota, she notes with amusement, often prompts encounters with people who have connections to her hometown.
Conclusion
Nola McNeally's work as the general counsel at Edgewood REIT has been a fulfilling and rewarding experience. With her expertise and dedication to wise acquisitions, she plays a crucial role in the continuous growth of the company. Anchored in her North Dakota roots, McNeally remains committed to her community and leads by example. As Edgewood REIT continues to expand, the expertise and guidance of Nola McNeally will undoubtedly be instrumental in its continued success.
This article was originally published in the Vanguard Spring I 2023 Edition.