Women’s History Month Attorney Spotlight: Galete J. Levin

Galete J. Levin is a partner in the firm’s Banking and Financial Services department. She represents institutional lending clients in commercial lending transactions, primarily loans secured by multi-family and commercial properties in New York, New Jersey, and other states. Galete advises major institutional clients on all aspects of commercial loan documentation, and she has extensive experience drafting commitment letters, notes, mortgages, loan agreements, guarantees, environmental indemnities, and other documents necessary to her clients’ transactions. Learn more about Galete J. Levin through our Women’s History Month Spotlight:

Who/What has inspired you the most in your career?

My mother has been my greatest inspiration.  My mother’s parents were Holocaust survivors, and she was born in a “displaced person’s camp” in Germany. When she came to this country at a very young age, she faced multiple obstacles. Nevertheless, she thrived and maintained a positive and hopeful outlook. It has been her life’s mission to help others, whether it be through her nursing practice, her time spent as a social worker in the City of New York or just helping a grandchild study for an upcoming exam.  My mother is a source of strength for my entire family, and her faith, compassion and guidance has been an inspiration to all of us.

What is the most important advice you’ve been given?

 “Don’t be too hard on yourself.”  If you have a career, your house may not always be immaculate, your children may have more “pizza nights” for weeknight dinners than you care to admit, you may not see your friends as often as you would like, and you may not become president of the PTA.

What has been your greatest achievement?

I am proud that I have been at the firm for nearly 20 years.  In that time, I have been able to learn from so many colleagues and clients alike. It’s quite incredible that, even after 20 years of legal practice, every day is an opportunity to learn something new.  However, my greatest achievements are my two children.  If my children become well-adjusted, functioning members of society who treat others with kindness and compassion and are secure in their faith, I will have achieved my most meaningful goal.

What does Women’s History Month mean to you?

Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the past and provides us with the opportunity to think about how we can improve the lives of other women in the future.  

Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so important?

Diversity in the workplace is very important. Diversity exposes us to different experiences and perspectives which result in new ideas and opportunities for innovation.

What progress have you seen on gender equality in your life and work?

While we, as a society, have made great strides in gender equality over the last few years, I am hopeful that more will be accomplished in the years to come.

What qualities about you as a woman have contributed the most to a successful career?

I don’t think that being a woman has had a significant influence on my career, and I think that is due to the culture of the firm. I found the firm to be welcoming and accepting, and I really benefited from the collaborative environment early in my career. I am still struck by the dedication, effort and knowledge of my partners and colleagues.  They are rockstars.

What advice do you have for any woman starting off in her career?

It is important to invest in relationships. Introductions, opportunities, and advice come from the people you meet on your journey. Take the time to catch up with a colleague or a client. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the many people I have met during my career, and I am grateful for the friendships that I have made.