Director of Marketing and Innovation for Oxford Development Company, Megan Stearman has 18 years of experience working as a marketing and community development professional in the nonprofit, government and real estate sectors. At Oxford, Megan has overseen marketing efforts for multifamily, commercial office, hotel and parking development projects, including the company’s current $200 million mixed-use development, 3 Crossings, which reconnects the Strip District to Pittsburgh’s revitalized riverfront and Three Rivers Trail network. As the owner of Turtle Moon Sleep Consulting, Megan works with families of young children who are experiencing sleep difficulties. A South Park native, Megan serves on the board of directors for Strip District Neighbors and is a mentor with Strong Women, Strong Girls.
Your wish for Pittsburgh?
There are a lot of big thinkers in Pittsburgh as well as a lot of skilled implementers. My wish is that all of these people continue to sit at the table with one another to realize the vision that so many have worked to shape — Pittsburgh is an inclusive, sustainable, healthy and culture-rich city.
Podcast you’re addicted to?
I love TED Talks. All of them. They are so inspiring and make me want to be a better human. I also love Tech Vibe Radio, which is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council. We have so many innovative companies at work in our region. This is the place where you get to hear their fascinating stories. And Jonathan Kersting cracks me up. His energy is positively infectious.
The one Pittsburgh event you can’t wait to attend this week?
The Urban Land Institute’s (ULI) 5th Annual Placemaking Awards for Excellence event at the Omni William Penn on Thursday, October 12. Oxford is being recognized as Placemaker of the Year. Our whole team is so honored. Oxford has been placemaking in the Pittsburgh region for more than 55 years. It’s the greatest compliment to be acknowledged by a group of your peers.
Best part of your job?
My job is different every day and allows me the freedom to think creatively and dream a little. One day I might be putting together a proposal for a new project or new business, or maybe I’m planning a groundbreaking or brainstorming names for new buildings, and then other days I’m working to embed wellness and sustainability into our company’s culture. Plus, I get to work with really talented people. All of this fun and I get to aid in the evolution of Pittsburgh through the built environment. Win-win.
Who is the last person you texted (and what was it about)?
Chris Yasko, the project manager for Coda on Centre, our residential project on the border of East Liberty and Shadyside border. We are coordinating the set-up of our leasing office. Pre-leasing starts in November, and units are ready March 2018, so the whole team is full speed ahead!
If you could expand the T to one neighborhood, where would it go?
The Strip District! I mean how awesome (for me) would it be to catch a T from Bethel Park and ride all the way to the Strip for all of the tasty wine, cheese, tacos and wine? Extend it further still into Lawrenceville and magic will happen for a lot of people.
It’s time to unwind. Where do you head?
I joined the 5 a.m. crew at Crossfit St. Clair. These guys (and gals) are all so physically and mentally tough that you can’t help but be motivated. I’ve found that when I start my day screaming at weights and the rower, I am loosely wound for the rest of the day.
Favorite Pittsburgh view?
When you come through the Fort Pitt Tunnels and the city is like BLAM! It’s so amazing; our city is so beautiful. I get goosebumps every time I see it.
Favorite Pittsburgh brewery?
Spoonwood Brewing. It’s right down the street from my house and is kid-friendly. The staff is sociable and knowledgeable, the food is amazing and the beer will creep right up on you.
What upcoming events are you excited to attend?
October 13 & 14: Almono Big Tent Event in Hazelwood
October 14 & 15: Bethel Park U10 soccer games
October 18: ULI Young Leaders Foodie Crawl in the Strip District
October 18: Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh’s IMPACT 2017 event at Wigle Whiskey’s Barrelhouse and Whiskey Garden
See who else is NEXT Up here.
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