Frank Castagna, Visionary in our Midst
I can count on one hand the true visionaries I’ve been fortunate to come into contact with – the unique individual who can bring people together around a shared purpose and motivate them to reach for the stars. I’m talking about the person who can connect with others, who understands their needs and makes them feel integral to the whole, who sets forth his agenda through persuasion rather than coercion, who is accessible and available, who leads through example, and who takes responsibility for mistakes and willingly and without fear charts a new better course . I think of George Washington, that brilliant leader who rallied people around his sense of decency and vision, and who never expected more from his troops than he himself was willing to give.
So, it is a distinct honor to know and be able to work with modern day visionary, Frank Castagna, owner of Americana Manhasset and Wheatley Plaza shopping centers. But Mr. Castagna is far more than the owner of these two incredible properties. He is the one who has conceived and built them, store by store, turning a dream into some of the most prestigious properties in the country.
When you meet Mr. Castagna, you are struck by how gentle and humble he is, more comfortable deflecting attention and praise onto those around him than accepting it for himself. His understated demeanor hides his curiosity, intelligence, and unbridled energy. This quiet man is one of action, and in fact, is rarely seen without his characteristic pin of a frog that he wears prominently on his lapel, a visible reminder to hopping. Keep looking ahead and keep moving. Know where you’ve come from, but never ever stand still. Challenges and obstacles are met with calmness, as if they are old friends that visit from time to time. Without obstacles, there is no growth. Without challenge, there is no incentive to do things differently. His confidence under fire, his determination and his energy, are an inspiration.
On a weekend day, you can see Mr. Castagna heading to his office bearing The New York Times, Crains, Women’s Wear Daily, Vogue, The Wall Street Journal, and a handful of other journals and periodicals. And come Monday, you can be sure to receive a copy of an article with a personal note, advising of a trend, a new collection, a potential peril, or just a humorous anecdote.
Philanthropy is his calling, and he uses his position at the center to insure that all of his stores give back in meaningful ways. This gentle man is a genius – in his informed management style, in his ability to keep his eye on the ball, in his kindness and humanity, in his energy and sheer unstoppability. Indeed, Frank Castagna is a visionary in our midst, and I am incredibly fortunate to be in the presence of such an inspired and brilliant leader.
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