Posted on October 12, 2021 at 11:44 AM by Steven Lawrence
Name
Sam Stagg
What is your hometown?
Ames, Iowa
Occupation and company you work for?
Architect at 10Fold Architecture + Engineering
What is a fun fact about your business or something you’re doing at your business that you’re excited about?
All but one of our professional staff are ISU alumni. The exception is from K-State...at least in the Big 12. :)
What is your role with the AEDC, and how long have you been involved?
I am a board member. I am in my second year.
What is the most interesting thing you have learned about local economic development by being involved in the AEDC?
The most interesting thing I have learned about is how critical it is to have an integrated approach to macro business development. An integrated approach not only within the business community, but a collaborative effort between the business community, Iowa State University (and the ISU Research Park), and the City of Ames. While some level of success can be had individually, our true potential can only be met when all three entities share a common vision and are working toward the same goal for growth and development.
Why do you continue to be involved in local economic development? Why is this an important issue for you?
Referencing the topic above, I believe more alignment can be made. I think there is room for improvement on both a micro and macro level. My business is integrally tied to the success of the larger community, region and state. My effort is helping both larger initiatives and my own personal business.
Also, I think economic development is a critical component for the success of other necessary socio-political community initiatives. Whether non-profits, groups or individuals who have been neglected or oppressed, a lack of finances and resources are often the obstacle for a wholistic realization of success throughout the community.
What other involvements do you have in the local community/county?
In recent past I have served as a board member and president of both the Ames Public Art Commission and the Octagon Center for the Arts. I'm currently the Vice-President of the board for Ames Mainstreet and the chair for the Economic Vitality Committee for Ames Mainstreet. I'm active in my local church, Cornerstone Church of Ames. I currently serve on a leadership committee for the state of Iowa chapter of the American Institute of Architects.
What are your favorite pastimes/hobbies?
Enjoying the outdoors with my family, skateboarding with my daughters, bike riding with my family, cooking/grilling, home horticulture, expressionist painting, and drawing.
Who are the members of your family?
My wife is Jessica Stagg. I have two daughters, Leah and Isabelle. They attend Ames High School and Ames Middle School respectively.
If you had only one hour a week to watch TV, what would you watch?
News and ESPN (SportsCenter)
