Get to know your Collective team a little better with this series of Meet the Team posts! Today, we’re hearing from Agora Community Administrator Tisha on what brought her here, what she loves about the building and the neighborhood and what she’s up to when she isn’t hard at work!
How did you end up in DC?
While growing up in a small country town in North Carolina, I always knew I wanted to live in a forever-changing urban area and also attend an HBCU. DC provided the best of both worlds. My alma mater Howard University and the face paced city life I craved.
What made you want to come work at The Collective?
I was attracted to WC Smith when discovering how much they care about their employees as well as the community. The Collective is a groundbreaking collaboration in the Capitol Riverfront that I wanted to be a part of.
If The Collective were a House of Cards or Scandal character, what would it be?
Unfortunately, I do not watch either show, however, I know Olivia Pope in Scandal was known as the “fixer” in Washington, D.C. I like to think of the Collective as the “fixer” to all residential demands in the Navy Yard/Capitol Riverfront area.
What are you Netflix-binging on right now?
Lucky to have a toddler daughter and infant son, we are currently binging on Furchester Hotel since it features Elmo, my daughter’s favorite character.
If you were to work from home, which Collective space would you choose?
I love being outside so I would choose the rooftop or the courtyard area. On those days when its rainy or cold I would work comfortably in the Library at Park Chelsea.
When you want to unwind at the end of the day, where do you go?
I enjoy relaxing on my porch. If I were a Collective resident I would definitely enjoy the courtyard or either the Agora or Park Chelsea rooftop areas. During seasons of much colder weather, I would head to the game rooms and shoot some pool.
How would you work on your wellness/fitness at The Collective?
At The Collective, there is no room for excuses when it comes to working on your wellness. I would definitely use the Fitness Center or Peloton Cycle Room at Agora. I would finish my workout over at Park Chelsea in the Yoga Studio and relax my muscles in the Steam Room.
How do you think life at The Collective allows residents to thrive?
Living at the Collective allows residents to be exactly who they are. Residents are supported by various floor plans options, an extensive selection of amenities, and a location perfect for playing in the park, commuting to work, or conveniently grocery shopping. The Collective allows you to get the most out of your time and pursue your interests.
If you were a resident, what would your perfect day at The Collective look like?
A perfect day at The Collective for me would consist of enjoying my morning work out at Agora’s open-concept Fitness Center. I would use the Library at Park Chelsea to work from home. During lunchtime, I would head to Justin’s or another neighboring restaurant to grab a bite to eat. During the evening I would enjoy shooting some pool in the game lounge with my significant other, then head down to Harris Teeter and prepare dinner with my kids.
What 3 words would you use to describe The Collective?
Premier, Innovative, Congenial
What’s your favorite restaurant in the neighborhood and what do you order?
I would have to say Justin’s. They are my go-to for lunch and I enjoy the old bay wings or the bison burger.
If The Collective were a drink, what would it be?
I would say Coca-Cola. Just like Coca-Cola, “It’s the Real Thing.” It’s classic yet refreshing.
What’s a local organization doing good in our DC community that residents and readers should know about?
Building Bridges Across the River is a non-profit organization that built and now runs THEARC. THEARC is helping to improve the quality of life for children and adults in the area. With many things to offer like dance and theater classes, new mom support groups, the THEARC is a great resource center for everyone.
Where is your favorite spot to grab lunch in the neighborhood?
With so many great choices in the neighborhood, if I had to choose I would say Rasa. Rasa provides authentic, fast-casual Indian cuisine using fresh ingredients from local partners. Very fulfilling with many combinations, but my favorite, in particular, is the spiced beef.
Where do you head for happy hour in the Capitol Riverfront?
Even though I have not been yet, I would head to Bluejacket! Bluejacket occupies a historical industrial building from 1919 and has an in-house brewery of 20 innovative beers. I love trying new things and beer is one of them.
