Her Story
About Rosanna
Rosanna Catalano serves as Vice President of Arrow Group, a subsidiary of the Gunster Law Firm in Florida, where she works as part of the government relations arm of the firm. She has been in this role for about a year and a half and has spent the last decade as a lobbyist and advocate. With nearly 30 years as an attorney, Catalano has worked as a trial attorney, in state government, and in academia before focusing on lobbying. She holds an undergraduate degree in telecommunication from the University of Florida and a law degree from the same institution. She also started but did not complete master's programs in mass communication law at the University of Florida and in applied American politics at Florida State University. During COVID, she obtained her real estate license and real estate instructor license. Catalano attributes her success to the support of her family, including her parents early in her career and now her husband and children, as well as her discipline with time and focus. She values doing the right thing and prioritizing family in her decisions.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Rosanna
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think having people at home that support you is key. We don't give enough credit to having cheerleaders at home, whether it was my parents at the beginning of my career, and now I have a very supportive husband and children that cheer me on. That might be the secret sauce. Also, I am very disciplined with regards to my time and what gets my focus.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was that I should always learn the financials of whatever business, organization, even if that's in government. Understanding the financials and how they function and make money will always put me in a position of knowledge. I'll always be needed, and it informs how to make decisions. A lot of people just accept their paycheck, but understanding how the company gets those funds is really key.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I'd say one of the best things is to have a law degree, it's extremely helpful though not required. Keep your eye on the prize because there are a lot of social distractions in this field. Always keeping an eye on what's truly important to you will keep you straight. Focus on the policy and becoming an expert in your field and industry. Keep your eye on your own personal values and priorities because you can get distracted by glittery objects very quickly.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value doing the right thing. When I make decisions, I always say at the end of the day I have to be able to sleep at night with my decisions. Family is also a strong value. I adore my family and whatever decisions I make, I will always consider them.
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