Diana Echeverria

Community impact manager,
United Way of Central Iowa

Age: 27

Education: Bachelor of Science in supply chain management with a minor in biology - Iowa State University

Fiancé: Anthony Pawnell

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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

I serve as the programming chair on the Latina Leadership Initiative Board.

I am a member of the For Impact Leaders Advisory Committee.

I volunteer as a mentor at the Oak Tech Center.

I volunteered as a business adviser for Business Horizons.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

My greatest passion is seeing my community thrive. I believe when individuals have the support, resources and self-awareness to live by their core beliefs, they can create lasting change. Through philanthropy or personal development, I am driven by the impact of empowering others to grow and succeed for generations to come.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

Success is living in alignment with my values, finding fulfillment and making a positive impact. Personally, it means authentic relationships, growth and well-being. Professionally, it’s creating opportunities, driving change and empowering others. I’ve “made it” when my work and life reflect purpose, impact and continuous learning.

Tell us about an issue you think more people should know about.

One issue I believe more people should be aware of is the importance of empathy and staying curious. It’s easy to become numb or desensitized, leading to the belief that if something isn’t your struggle, it isn’t real. Issues like access to quality education, workforce development, fresh produce and mental health services are critical. True support starts at home, within your own community, and grows from there.

What's an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?

As a child, some of my most cherished memories come from my father’s Italian and Greek restaurant, where my family infused the values of service, community and love through food. We welcomed people from all backgrounds, embraced diverse demographics and even enjoyed different genres of music. I remember families staying for hours, sharing meals and deep conversations.

What are your aspirations for the future?

My future aspirations are to take on impactful roles that allow me to create and support initiatives focused on community development. I aim to design programs that empower individuals, invest in local communities and address community critical initiatives. I want to work within organizations that align their business goals with the betterment of society, offering opportunities for growth and positive, long-term impact both for employees and the community.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?

When you are unsure of your purpose, try something new. You might discover a passion, or at the very least, gain clarity on what does not work for you. Every experience offers valuable lessons, helping you grow and refine your path toward your next opportunity.

What's one regular habit that's made you successful?

Striving to grow beyond my past self, I actively seek feedback from mentors, colleagues and loved ones. Paired with self-reflection, this practice has been instrumental in my development. It has taught me vulnerability, deepened my self-awareness and reinforced the importance of embracing my core beliefs. In learning to show up for myself, I’ve also gained the capacity to do the same for others.

What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?

I would like to see leaders in Central Iowa take responsibility and speak their truth while fostering collaboration. While quick results may come from acting alone, lasting success comes from working together, combining strengths and building trust. Leaders should address the most challenging barriers in our community, creating environments where diverse voices are heard and valued, and guiding us toward shared goals and long-term, meaningful impact through collective growth and mutual accountability.

What's one fun fact about you?

I enjoy trying new foods and once spent a year eating food without salt, which was quite challenging, but it led me to appreciate the delicious flavors herbs can add to meals.

Hobbies:

Cooking new recipes; painting; gardening.

What is one word that best describes you?

Intentional.

What’s one food (meal, snack, dessert, whatever!) you think people must try in the Des Moines area?

Cheese empanadas from Mi Patria!

What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?

The most surprising and unforgettable moment for me was being proposed to last March. The one line I remember from my fiancé is, “The only vacation I want to go on with you is the rest of our lives.”

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

One of my favorite traditions is spending summer days under a tree at Water Works Park or attending the Asian and Latino festivals with loved ones.