What makes Greater Phoenix so great: Samantha Pinkal

Published: 06/24/2021
Updated: 03/23/2023

How long have you lived in Greater Phoenix?

12 years

What city do you currently reside in?

Phoenix

Where are you originally from and why’d you decide to move to Arizona?

I’m originally from southwest Nebraska. During college, I interned in both Phoenix and Salt Lake City and ultimately the weather, the people, the lifestyle and the career opportunity I had brought me back to AZ.

If you graduated from college, where did you attend and what was your degree?

Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Pittsburg State University.

Where do you currently work and what is your title?

Greater Phoenix Economic Council, Vice President of Business Development.

What do you like to do in Greater Phoenix on the weekends?

I love to stand up paddleboard (SUP), play sand and indoor volleyball, attend concerts and art exhibits, and try new restaurants.

What’s your favorite restaurant and why?
  • For pizza: Federal Pizza
  • For mac & cheese: The Vig
  • For a chopped salad: The Gladly
  • For meatloaf & pretzel bites: Culinary Dropout
  • For a burger: The Stand
  • For pho: Saigon Kitchen
  • For sushi: MOIRA Sushi
  • For a breakfast burrito: Chef Sergio at the Uptown Farmers Market

Why? Because I can’t pick just one!!

How do you stay “cool” in the Arizona summers?

I spend as much time on the water as possible. I love spending weekends finding new water to drop my SUP into. So far, the paddling 15 miles down the Colorado River has been the best spot!

What do you like about our winters and why?

I grew up in frigid winters and so spent most of the season inside. I love how much more time I spend outdoors in the winter in Arizona!

What do you love most about living in Greater Phoenix?

I love getting to witness the transformation of the city. Greater Phoenix is so young compared to the other major metros in the U.S. and to be part of shaping its identity is a special experience.

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