Alumni Spotlight: Elaine Levin

Class of 1989

2026 Distinguished Alumni Halo Award Winner

Degree:

Current Role:

President and CEO of POWERHOUSE

Describe your background and what brought you to Marymount.

I grew up in Crofton, Md., outside of Annapolis. I originally came to Marymount for the Fashion Merchandising program but also liked how I could get a liberal arts degree at the same time. I loved the classes—History of Fashion remains one of my all-time favorites—but after getting a job in retail, I realized it wasn’t for me.

I was tutoring math in the Learning Resource Center at the time, and a friend there suggested I look into finance. Once I did, I really liked it. So I switched my major and finished with a business degree and a minor in finance.

What opportunities did you have at Marymount that shaped your career?

Marymount required every student to have an internship and leave with a résumé, which was ahead of its time. I wanted a big-name firm on my résumé, so I applied to Shearson Lehman Hutton for a commodities broker internship, even though I didn’t know anything about commodities. I got the internship, and it turned into a full-time job after graduation. That opportunity ultimately led me to my entire career path. I always joke and say that I’m still technically at my college internship, and that someday I will grow up and get a real job! But Marymount really opened the door for me to explore this field and find a pathway into a rewarding career, for which I will always be grateful.

Professionally, how did you get to where you are today?

I started as a commodities broker at Shearson Lehman Hutton, then eventually moved to Dean Witter, which became Morgan Stanley. By that time, I was working with a few partners who I was close to, and together we grew our business significantly. After the 2008 financial crisis, we started thinking about going independent and starting our own business. We approached our clients about the move, and the reception was overwhelmingly positive. We had nurtured relationships with our clients, and they wanted to continue working with us for our expertise and professionalism. With most of our clients on board, we started our own brokerage firm in 2012 called POWERHOUSE.

Today, I serve as the president and CEO, specializing in using financial instruments like futures and options to help companies manage volatile energy prices. We help clients understand risk and develop strategies to protect profit margins and grow their businesses. A big part of my role is simplifying complex financial concepts and providing education so clients can make informed decisions.

One of the most rewarding parts of my career has been helping companies navigate complex energy markets, such as during the pandemic, or most recently, through events in the Middle East. Our work impacts everything, from powering homes to fueling businesses. I’ve even had clients stay with me since 1989, which says a lot about the relationships we build and the value of the work we do.

It has been a very rewarding journey and it’s not over yet! I look forward to many more years of helping clients navigate the ever-changing energy landscape, and am grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with Marymount’s community.

What is it like to be a strong female leader in a largely male-dominated field?

Extremely empowering. I’ve been fortunate to have strong mentors, a supportive team and wonderful clients. I don’t meet many women in my position, but every year that changes a little more and that gives me so much hope for the future of our industry.

It can be challenging to have companies or leaders take you seriously as a woman in a position of authority, but the important thing is that you do everything to the best of your ability. Knowing your business inside and out and having a track record of success conveys confidence and shows clients that you are the real deal. I am constantly growing by putting myself in situations that challenge me, even if they are uncomfortable. I still get nervous before speaking engagements, for example, but each one makes me a more agile and impactful leader. I always try to make sure I am pushing myself outside of my comfort zone to keep improving and growing.

Also, it’s never just me doing everything alone. I’m not a one-woman show, it truly takes a village! There is so much talent at POWERHOUSE that helps us serve our clients effectively.

What does it mean for you to receive Marymount’s Distinguished Alumni Halo Award?

It’s wonderful to be recognized by Marymount. My career is a direct result of the education and internship opportunities I had there. If it weren’t for that experience, I wouldn’t be where I am today. My first college roommate from Marymount is flying in to attend the awards ceremony and watch me be recognized. The experiences I had and relationships I formed at Marymount have been incredibly meaningful to me, and I am so glad I get the opportunity to celebrate everything Marymount has done for me.

What is your advice for Marymount students as they prepare for graduation and beyond?

Go to your classes, that’s number one! I didn’t miss a single class, and that was one key to my success. I learned so much because I took the time to invest in my education and explore different fields to find what I truly wanted to do. When a professional opportunity presented itself, I was ready and able to go for it because I’d spent time really preparing for what was next.

Also, make sure you take advantage of internships early and be proactive. Ask questions, volunteer and get involved as much as you can. My first internship turned into a full-time job and over three decades of an incredibly rewarding career. Invest in your professional skills and put yourself out there. The more you put into the experience, the more you’ll get out of it.