MBA Education Path to Diversity Scholar Profile: Lauren Tabas
(One in a continuing series of profiles of participants in the MBA Education Path to Diversity (P2D) Scholarship Program, which enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.)
I was born and raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia, went to Union College in Upstate New York and obtained my law degree at the Florida State University College of Law.
In June 2006, I accepted an associate position at a default law firm in the Philadelphia suburbs. In June 2008, I joined a large default firm in Center City, where I was promoted to Partner and practiced in Federal Bankruptcy Court, successfully argued before the Superior Courts of Pennsylvania on several occasions, participated in the nation’s first mediation courts in Philadelphia and helped to develop mediation programs in counties throughout Pennsylvania.
After nearly 15 years of practice, during the midst of the pandemic, I wanted a new challenge—to use my legal skills and servicing knowledge, but in a different way. In June 2021, I took a position at Cenlar FSB as a Business Control Manager, where I worked with front-line units in all stages of default, identifying emerging risks and developing develop preventative solutions. After a year and a half, I was promoted to Business Control Director to work with a variety of units, including Borrower Operations, Payment Services and some core operations. My background as a lawyer gives me a unique perspective in identifying emerging risks and collaborating with colleagues to develop solutions.
NEWSLINK: How did you learn about the MBA Path to Diversity Program?
LAUREN TABAS: I have to credit Lynn Tarantino, Chief Control Officer at Cenlar FSB, for opening my eyes to the opportunities at MBA. She encouraged me to apply for the scholarship and use that to not only obtain additional certifications, but to broaden my knowledge about mortgage servicing.
Growing up, my grandparents would frequently advise my sister and I to choose a career path and then become an expert. That stayed with me when I practiced law and prepared for court, so that I was sure that I knew more about my case than anyone else. I have always been very curious so it would not take much convincing for me to want to learn more and gain the expertise I need to continue my career in the servicing industry.
NEWSLINK: Did you find the application process to be user-friendly?
TABAS: Yes. The application was straight-forward, brief and a decision was made in 30-45 days.
NEWSLINK: How has the Path to Diversity scholarship benefited you, personally and professionally? What have you been able to bring back to your company as a result of the Path to Diversity program?
TABAS: I used my scholarship to sign up for the School of Mortgage Banking Course in the fall. I’m looking forward to expanding my knowledge and using the broader understanding of the business to develop innovative solutions.
NEWSLNK: What would you say to someone considering applying for a Path to Diversity scholarship?
TABAS: I would definitely recommend applying for the scholarship and exploring the continuing education opportunities MBA has to offer. Additionally, it is important to encourage those eligible for the Path to Diversity Scholarship to take a more active and prominent role in their organizations. The scholarship will allow more women and those with diverse backgrounds to become more involved.
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About the MBA Path to Diversity Scholarship Program
The Path to Diversity Scholarship Program recognizes existing industry professionals who are seeking to advance their careers through continuing education. Recipients receive a voucher to cover course registration fees, up to a maximum of $2,000, for popular MBA Education courses and designation programs. This education opportunity enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.
MBA recognizes that a strong, responsible and sustainable real estate finance industry requires a workforce that is reflective of our society at large.
For more information about the Path to Diversity Scholarship Program, click here.
