He tweets, loves to vacation at Disney World, and is a North Carolina native.  Danny Pleasant, Director of the Charlotte Department of Transportation since 2008 (and Deputy Director since 2002), was born in Raleigh, attended North Carolina State University (BS) and Texas A&M (Master of Planning), and advises others to “begin with the end in mind” (Stephen Covey).  As the Director of CDOT, Danny’s most satisfying part of his job is being able to play a key role in shaping the future of the community.

Danny has taken this passion to ULI as well.  He has been a ULI Rose Fellow, presenter at national meetings (see ULI Spring Meeting article), and a resource for ULI members throughout the country.  Danny believes that “having a healthy imagination, passion for the work and a strong work ethic, while also possessing and expressing a sincere appreciation for the talents and successes of others, is critical for leaders.”

Personally, Danny hugely admires his son Jordan, who struggles daily with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, yet maintains a positive attitude and loving spirit.  Danny is married to Bettie, has a daughter Madison (21) and son Jordan (19, and is passionate about the Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy.

“ULI allows professionals to have a safe place to discuss both public and private interests that can be achieved through high quality real estate development,” says Danny.  One of his favorite quotes is by Christopher Alexander, “Every increment of construction must be made in such a way as to heal the city.”  Danny is the Chair of the Academic Development Committee for ULI Charlotte which oversees UrbanPlan, the Hines Competition and our relationships with UNC Charlotte and Providence High School.