Michelle Foreman Barnet

What's Your “Day Job”?

I'm the president of Columbia West Properties Inc., a family owned commercial real estate company. We own and manage many commercial and hospitality properties throughout the Northwest region. We are nearing completion on our latest project, The Maxwell Hotel. It is located at the base of Queen Anne Hill across from the Seattle Center. I'm focusing a lot of love on it right now to get it up and running for guests in 2010!

Have You Had Previous Dance Experience?

It all started with figure skating. I was a competitive figure skater when I was little – up until about age 10. Later I did jazz, ballet, and hip hop. Nowadays I do a lot of Latin dancing. When my husband and I were in Buenos Aires for Carnival 2009, we took tango lessons and went to all the tango shows. I love the subtlety and energy of the tango!

Why Are You Dancing in Support of Plymouth Housing Group?

I found out about Plymouth Housing and its work through the Seattle Hotel Association. Columbia West's Director of Property Management is now on the Plymouth board, and she asked me if I'd be willing to dance for this event. I said “Of course!” Plymouth's a fabulous organization. I want my friends to know about it, and support it.

Where Will You Put Your Glitter Ball Trophy When You Win?

I'm going to put it right on my desk!

Watch Michelle Foreman Barnet at Rehearsal:

Michelle Foreman Barnet and Greg Rolnick are dancing the Tango