Name: Leslie Wright

Title: Economic Development Coordinator

How long have you been at TARCOG and what do you do? I have been at TARCOG for two years and I manage the economic development side of the Economic Development and Planning Department which includes keeping track of all our open grants as well as working with our member governments and local nonprofits on project development and funding applications. I also oversee our Revolving Loan Fund.

What did you want to be when you grew up? What haven’t I wanted to be when I grow up? I’ve been lucky enough to be able to try out a few different life paths, but I have been considering being a Pilates wife more and more.

What do you hope to accomplish within the next year? To be honest … the Universe usually decides what I accomplish from year to year, not me. So, I am eager to find out what’s in store for me as well!

Who is your hero and why? Do obsessions count? I’m a stan of a fair amount of people … we don’t have time for a list.

If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be? I love experiences. So, if money wasn’t a factor, and if there’s anything cool or fun happening within a reasonable driving distance, I’m there.

What is the best piece of advice someone has given you? “Nothing lasts forever.” It’s a good motivator to take chances in life. For instance, nothing lasts forever so you might as well take the chance while you have it … but also, if you take the chance and you don’t like it … nothing lasts forever so you can always just go try something else until you find the best fit.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done?  I actually jumped off a bridge before … and it hurt … a lot. So, I learned my lesson.

Who knows you the best? I’m pretty mysterious … but there’s also never been a time where I haven’t told a stranger my whole life’s story.

What would you do if you won the lottery? I’m fiscally liberal … so likely I would book a whole bunch of trips with my friends. Catch me cruising in Mallorca with the non-drowsy Dramamine.

 Congratulations, Leslie! Thank you for all that you do!