Some leaders build companies. Others build legacies. Edna Meyer-Nelson has done both. As the President & CEO, Edna, the driving force behind Richland Investments, has carved a remarkable path in the world of commercial real estate through resilience, vision, and an unwavering belief in hard work. Her story is not just about success in business but also about using that success to give back and inspire others.
From Banking to Building an Empire
Before Richland Investments came to life, Edna spent two decades in banking as a commercial loan officer. Those years gave her an insider’s understanding of finance, lending, and how to evaluate opportunity. Yet, she felt the need for something more dynamic and fulfilling. “After 20 years in banking, I wanted a career change,” she shared. “I had saved some money and decided that since I knew how to borrow money, it was a natural fit for commercial real estate.”
That decision marked the beginning of a new chapter. Edna started Richland Investments with determination and a deep understanding of how money moves and grows. Her banking background became the foundation for what would become one of Houston’s respected names in commercial real estate. The leap from corporate finance to entrepreneurship was risky, but for Edna, it was a risk worth taking.
Vision, Influence, and the Power of Connection
To Edna, leadership is not just running an enterprise. It is really knowing your purpose and applying your power to get others to see the same thing. “You can never have long-term business growth unless you know how to use your influence to your known vision and success,” she explained. Leadership in her view is really working together with other individuals in a way that makes them want to be part of it and be involved in the process.
This philosophy has led her throughout her working life. Whether talking to investors, business associates, or the community, Edna’s approach is one of respect for each other and the collaboration of everyone. Her people skills and making all people feel important have been two of the greatest strengths of hers as a businesswoman.
Growth Through Partnership
A major turning point in Edna’s career came when she joined forces with an investment partner, Suzanne Klein, who allowed her the freedom to lead and expand the business. “The decision to join with an investment partner provided me with the opportunity to grow the business more quickly and invest in larger commercial properties,” she said.
This partnership gave Richland Investments the capital and confidence needed to scale up while allowing Edna to stay true to her entrepreneurial instincts.
A Relentless Drive for Excellence
Edna’s energy and optimism are contagious. She wakes up every morning with the same excitement that fueled her when she first started. “I stay focused and motivated because I am excited each day when I awake to continue to find another great property or development,” she explained. That sense of passion keeps her grounded, even when challenges arise.
The world of real estate is unpredictable, and Edna knows the value of being financially and mentally prepared. “You must be ready every seven or eight years for rates to change,” she noted. “You must be resilient to see yourself through those ups and downs. Keep excess funds to cover downtime and avoid financing too much.” Her advice comes from decades of experience and reflects the balance between ambition and caution that defines her leadership style.
Giving Back to the Community
Beyond business, Edna finds her greatest joy in giving back. Her involvement in Houston’s charitable landscape is well known, especially in causes related to education and women’s empowerment. “Personal fulfillment is being able to give back to my community through involvement in many charities in Houston,” she said. “Helping to strengthen education in our area gives me a sense of purpose.”
Under her leadership, Richland Investments has become not only a company that builds commercial spaces but also one that builds opportunities for others. Her community engagement reflects her belief that success is incomplete unless it uplifts others along the way.
Lessons from Experience
With years of experience behind her, Edna believes that those nearing the end of their careers have a responsibility to mentor the next generation. “Everyone in the final years of their career should give back to their industry by speaking to younger groups,” she advised. “They can lend a lot to what they have learned, as well as the pitfalls to avoid.”
Her advice for young professionals is simple but powerful. “Listen, listen, listen,” she said with a smile. “Ask questions. Never be a know-it-all. Take your time, you learn more by listening than talking.” It is a philosophy that has served her well throughout her career and one that she hopes to pass on to others.
Milestones and Recognition
Edna’s work has not gone unnoticed. Among her many achievements, she is especially proud of the recognition Richland Investments has received for its community contributions. “I feel my accomplishment that best reflects our values is the community involvement we have demonstrated over the years,” she shared. “Receiving the Houston Business Journal’s Landmark Achievement Award in 2017 is my most treasured award.”
The honor holds special meaning for her, as she remains the only woman to have ever received it. “I hope that another deserving woman will soon be the recipient,” she said, expressing her hope that more women will continue to rise in leadership and real estate.
A Life Built on Purpose: Leaving a Legacy
For Edna Meyer-Nelson, leadership is not about titles or recognition. It is about integrity, consistency, and the will to keep learning. “I hope to leave a legacy that anyone can achieve their goals in work and leadership if they work alongside their colleagues, are not afraid to roll up their sleeves, and stay abreast of their industry,” she explained. Her words are a true reflection of her life, one that is characterized by hard work, humility, and generosity.
Edna Meyer-Nelson’s life is a testament to courage, determination, and conviction. From the early days of her career in banking to establishing a highly successful real estate business, she has remained committed to her values. She shows us that leadership is not merely about profit or fame but about passion, purpose, and persistence. Through Richland Investments and in her extensive community engagement, she continues to demonstrate that success is most accurately gauged in terms of the difference one makes in people’s lives.
