SARA LUM

Bio:

Sara is the Vice President at Startup Sioux Falls. She earned a B.S. in Design from the University of Nebraska, an MArch from Rice University, and an MBA from the University of South Dakota. She is a versatile leader who thrives working with multi-disciplinary teams to solve problems across diverse industries and bring visions to reality through consistent execution. She is a licensed architect and lifelong learner with a passion for making a positive impact on her community.

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How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?

I decided I wanted to be an architect when I was 12 years old. I don’t think I knew exactly what that meant, but I was artistic and loved to create and make things. I have also always been sensitive to my surroundings, which informed my decision.

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What do you do?

I lead our program and events, internship program, grant writing, metrics management, and provide project management leadership. I served as the owner’s representative and operational lead for the organization’s downtown relocation project.

What excites you in the work you do?

The thrill of transforming abstract ideas into tangible realities is exhilarating. Whether it's launching a business program or overseeing a construction project, seeing the community benefit and thrive from our efforts is immensely rewarding.

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Who or what inspires you professionally?

The entrepreneurs and creatives I work with every day inspire me. Entrepreneurs take incredible risk to solve problems and build a better world.

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What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?

During my time at Startup Sioux Falls, I have led the launch of the CO.STARTERS business accelerator program, an organizational rebrand, and a successful $1 million grant application, which expanded the CO.STARTERS program to serve many more people.

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Featured Project Name: 

Startup Sioux Falls

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Featured Project Location: 

Sioux Falls, SD

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Featured Project Completion Date: 

February 2023

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Role in Featured Project: 

Owner's Representative

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Featured Project Description:

Startup Sioux Falls is a 5,500 square foot building at the corner of 6th and Phillips in downtown Sioux Falls. The building was built in 1894 as a freight depot. With its wraparound deck, exposed stone, original wooden beams, and thoughtfully designed spaces, Startup Sioux Falls is a welcome home to entrepreneurs, remote workers, and the business community. Startup Sioux Falls empowers founders and ignites innovation in the Sioux Falls region.

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Photography Credit:

Jesse Wilkens