As an unpaid intern for Quest Capital Management back in 1991, Kalita Blessing made coffee, answered the phone, and photocopied documents. Today, she’s president of the company, which oversees more than $1 billion in investments. Blessing helps people preserve their wealth and maximize their impact in the community through charitable giving. About 40 percent of her clients are women.
Education:
Dartmouth College (BA)
Fun Fact:
“I’m named after Chief Kalita, who was the chief of the Alabama Coushatta tribe in the 1800s. I’m a proud to be a fifth-generation Texan and claim relatives who fought in the Alamo.”
First Job:
“I was an assistant swimwear buyer for Bloomingdale’s in New York. I worked for a smart and driven boss, Andrea Jung, who would later become Avon’s CEO. I learned the value of rolling up my sleeves and forging collaborations with long-time employees.”
Advice For An 18-Year-Old Me:
“Trust your inclinations, and don’t be swayed by popular opinion.”
Who I Admire:
“My dad, Henry C. Beck Jr. He motivated me to be the best I could be in every aspect of my life by the example he set. He demonstrated integrity and humility in everything he did. There is not a week that goes by that I don’t think, ‘What would Dad do?’”
What Keeps Me Up: “I have a calm nature, and I don’t worry about too much. At times, I find myself worrying about employees who are going through difficult circumstances. I also worry about clients who are facing incredible health or financial challenges.”
Scary Moment:
“Going up in an ultralight plane in Calistoga, California. I am quite afraid of heights.”
Lessons Learned:
“I am still learning, but the most important lesson so far is that I cannot express my gratitude enough for the great employees we have on board.”
Funny Experience:
“I was invited to lunch with Barry Switzer back when I was a junior planner. I had no clue who he was, but I knew there was a football connection. So, I asked him what he thought about the coaching style of Jimmy Johnson, who was coach of the Dallas Cowboys at the time. He said, ‘I guess I like it, because I taught him everything he knows.’ Others at the table could not believe I asked such a dumb question.”
Hobby/Passion:
“Fly-fishing, traveling, and tennis”
