Lillian C. Giornelli Announces Retirement from Cousins Properties After 26 Remarkable Years

Lillian C. Giornelli to Retire from Cousins Properties Board

Cousins Properties (NYSE: CUZ) recently revealed that Lillian C. Giornelli will be stepping down from its Board of Directors at the conclusion of her elected term, which will wrap up at the company's 2025 Annual Shareholder Meeting. Giornelli's retirement marks the end of a remarkable 26-year journey with the company, having served as a board member since May 1999.

Bob Chapman, the non-executive Chairman of the Board at Cousins Properties, expressed heartfelt gratitude for Giornelli's extensive service, emphasizing her significant contributions during a time of vast changes, including navigating through two mergers and entering new Sun Belt markets. Giornelli's tenure has been characterized by her collaboration with multiple CEOs, which has played a crucial role in shaping the company's journey.

In conjunction with Giornelli’s retirement, Cousins Properties has appointed Susan L. Givens to join the Board of Directors effective April 1, 2025. Ms. Givens, a seasoned professional in the real estate sector, previously held the position of Senior Managing Director at Blackstone's Real Estate Group. Her vast experience, particularly in REITs and various investment platforms, is expected to bring valuable insights to the Board.

Colin Connolly, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Cousins Properties, voiced his excitement at the prospect of working with Susan. He highlighted Givens' broad experience in both public and private sectors of real estate, indicating that her participation will greatly benefit the board's future strategies and decision-making processes.

Susan Givens brings with her over two decades of experience in real estate management and investment. Prior to her time at Blackstone, she served as the CEO and board member of healthcare REIT New Senior Investment Group until its acquisition by Ventas, Inc. Givens has also held significant roles at Fortress Investment Group and Deutsche Bank, showcasing her multifaceted career within the finance and investment spheres.

Givens holds an MBA from Harvard University and completed her undergraduate studies in political science at Middlebury College. Expressing her enthusiasm about joining Cousins Properties, she stated, "Cousins is uniquely positioned in the office sector, and I look forward to supporting the company's continued growth."

The recruitment of Givens was facilitated by Ferguson Partners, a firm that specializes in executive recruitment for the REIT industry, ensuring that the Board of Directors continues to maintain a high standard of expertise and leadership. Following these changes, the Board will consist of nine members as it moves forward into the upcoming fiscal year.

Cousins Properties operates as a fully integrated and self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT), headquartered in Atlanta, GA. The company focuses on making strategic investments in Class A office towers located in high-growth Sun Belt regions. Founded in 1958, Cousins Properties has established a solid reputation for creating shareholder value through its dedication to high-quality real estate management, development, and leasing. For more details about Cousins Properties and its strategic vision, visit Cousins Properties.