In Memory of Joan

Joan Bavaria passed away earlier this week, and it is a terrible loss for those who knew her and for the world. But surely it is better to reflect on the blessing of having had a chance to know and work with Joan over the years.

I was barely shaving when I was hired at Trillium Asset Management more than 15 years ago. I had zero investment experience at the time. I stumbled into the job thanks in part to an innovative job-seeking letter (hire me hire me hire me hire me). But Joan nurtured me, invested in me and mentored me. She gave me the opportunity to grow into my job and then evolve my job to allow me to pursue my interests. She was always 100% supportive and encouraging, and knew exactly how to temper my youthful zeal and exuberance without putting me down. A perfect boss.

Joan was a wise woman. She possessed a quiet tranquility and grace in even the most trying times. And that made her a great leader. A big part of her wisdom was her humility and groundedness. Joan had the confidence to forge forward in pursuit of her deeply held beliefs, but she was never cocky, never thought she had all the answers, never pulled rank. And as a result she earned the trust and respect of those around her.

I learned a great deal from Joan and feel grateful. And her passing makes me want more than ever to carry out her vision of investing for a better world.