Sara R. DialChief development officer, Discovery Triangle Development Corporation

Dial is president and CEO of Sara Dial & Associates, a consulting firm specializing in site selection, government relations, and economic and community development. She also helps lead the Discovery Triangle, a nonprofit services company that hopes to form a coordinated, regional force for urban redevelopment.

Surprising fact: “I was a nationally-ranked competitive swimmer as a child. It taught me the skills to be successful in business and life: self-discipline, focus, drive and teamwork.”

Biggest challenge: “In 2008, Mayor Phil Gordon challenged me to create a big idea around urban revitalization. After months of research and outreach, the Discovery Triangle, a new approach to regional urbanism, was born. Today, the Discovery Triangle region is thriving.”

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