29 | Education: Tulane University | Company: Bank of America
Lindsay Poppenhagen has built a life rooted in service, community, and meaningful impact. As assistant vice president in commercial real estate at Bank of America, she plays a role in financing buildings where people live, work, and shop.
After earning both a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a master’s in real estate development from Tulane University, Poppenhagen has carried her combined passion for design and community-building into her professional and personal life.
Since moving to Dallas, Poppenhagen has invested deeply in the Park Cities and Preston Hollow communities. She is an active parishioner at Christ the King Catholic Church, where a sense of belonging anchors her daily life.
Her volunteer work includes advocating for abused or neglected children in foster care as a member of the Dallas CASA Young Professionals Board. Through Kappa Alpha Theta, she maintains involvement with her alumnae group while supporting CASA initiatives. She is a member of the Junior League of Dallas, where she has contributed to projects at the Dallas Museum of Art, Genesis Women’s Shelter, and New Friends New Life. Her participation in the Texas Real Estate Council allows her to help shape Dallas’ commercial landscape, including by serving on the Casino Night Young Professionals Gala and Membership Committees.
“My goal is to remain someone who invests in others, embraces new opportunities, and leads with empathy,” Poppenhagen said.
What (or who) motivated you to get involved in the community?
My dad’s motto when I was growing up, “The Other Person Matters More.” He even had bracelets made for my sister and me with the phrase when we were younger. That simple message shaped so much of who I am. My family and our faith have always been a guiding light for me. Community involvement has never felt like an obligation, but rather an extension of who I strive to be.
What is your favorite part of your current job or community involvement?
My favorite part of my job is the ability to serve. That may sound unexpected for someone working at a bank, but I truly love the impact of what we do. We help finance the buildings where people live, work, and shop. Being involved in that kind of positive, tangible change is incredibly rewarding.
Are you where you thought you’d be when you graduated from high school?
When I graduated from high school, I was certain I would become an architect. Instead, my career led me into banking, a path I’ve come to love. I’m grateful that I was open to exploring new opportunities and changing direction.
What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
My first job was working at a children’s clothing boutique in high school. I learned the importance of patience, empathy, and genuine customer service. These skills seem simple but have become fundamental to how I show up professionally today.
Was there a “lightbulb moment” that led you to your career? If so, what was it?
I actually fell into CRE after deciding not to pursue architecture post‑school. Once I got exposure to the industry, I realized I loved the finance side of the business. It’s where I feel I can make the most meaningful impact.
What accomplishment are you the proudest of and why?
I moved to Dallas without knowing a single person. I am proud of my willingness to attend events alone and consistently put myself out there, even when it felt uncomfortable.
Which leadership skills have been the most challenging for you to develop and why?
The leadership skill that has been most challenging for me to develop is confidently asserting my perspective in conversations with clients and colleagues. My natural tendency is to be overly deferential, or to phrase things as questions rather than clear recommendations.
I have been fortunate to have exceptional mentorship, especially from my manager, Darcy Barnes. One of the most impactful pieces of guidance she has given me is to ‘tell, not ask,’ which encourages me to share my viewpoint with confidence rather than defaulting to timidity. Her coaching has helped me recognize when I’m holding back and has encouraged me to communicate with greater clarity and authority.
What do you see is the biggest challenge facing Dallas right now? If you had the connections and resources to change that, what would you do?
One of the biggest challenges facing Dallas today is something increasingly common across major cities: a weakening sense of community. As the region continues to grow rapidly, people and businesses are moving faster than genuine connections can form, leaving neighborhoods feeling fragmented and residents feeling less rooted. If I had the resources and influence to make a meaningful impact, I would focus on initiatives that rebuild those connections. Creating more shared public spaces, supporting local events, and fostering partnerships between businesses, schools, and community organizations. Strengthening the social fabric doesn’t just improve quality of life; it makes the city more resilient, collaborative, and future‑ready.
If someone made a movie about your life, what would it be called and who would play you?
“Eat, Pray, Lease” starring Lily Collins.
What is your favorite local restaurant or shop?
I love the horchata latte at Ascension!
What’s on your bucket list?
My biggest bucket‑list item is to travel more. This past year, I visited Paris and Switzerland. I’m currently planning trips to Eastern Europe, Thailand, Yosemite, and Colorado.
What do you have in mind for after 40?
My goal is to remain someone who invests in others, embraces new opportunities, and leads with empathy.
Is there anything else you think we should know about you?
I want to encourage other young professionals to find a cause they are passionate about. When you pour your time and heart into something that matters, I promise you will see the world with a new level of empathy and understanding, make lifelong friends, and gain a sense of purpose that grounds you in the very best way.
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