SAN ANTONIO – The journey of Sarah Carabias Rush to her current role as president and CEO of greater:SATX is a compelling tale that begins thousands of miles away in Alaska. Her story reflects a blend of personal connections and professional evolution that has shaped her leadership approach in the San Antonio region.
Rush recounts a touching family narrative, stating, “My dad decided he couldn’t live without her, followed her up there, which is a really sweet story.” This anecdote hints at the close-knit family values that shaped her upbringing. Notably, during her childhood in Anchorage, she had a unique experience when former Pope St. John Paul II blessed her during a visit, a moment that resonates with her spiritual and cultural identity.
After her family’s return to the mainland, they settled in Norman, Oklahoma. Growing up in a household with two English professors, Rush was immersed in a world of debate, literature, and stimulating dinner time discussions. “We debated, we read books like crazy, we had great dinner time conversations,” she recalls, emphasizing the intellectual environment that fostered her critical thinking skills.
Rush pursued her education at Austin College in Sherman, Texas, where she broadened her horizons through study abroad programs in Costa Rica, Chile, and Spain. These experiences not only enriched her academic background but also cultivated a global perspective that she brings to her current role. After completing her studies, she initially sought a director-level position but began her career at the Dallas Chamber of Commerce as an administrative assistant. Her talents were quickly recognized, leading her to a recruitment opportunity in San Antonio in 2022.
Now, as the leader of greater:SATX, Rush focuses on attracting employers and investment to the 10-county San Antonio region while simultaneously expanding workforce opportunities. “Our job is to sell the San Antonio region … to try to bring more employers here, create more job opportunities,” she explains, highlighting her commitment to economic development in the area.
Rush’s confidence in the region’s potential is palpable. She believes that San Antonio is exceptionally well-positioned for growth, stating, “We have nothing but runway.” This optimism is further underscored by her prediction that San Antonio and Austin will increasingly connect, potentially evolving into a “mega region” by 2040 to 2050. This vision reflects a forward-thinking approach that emphasizes collaboration and regional development.
For a deeper insight into Sarah Carabias Rush’s perspectives, viewers can watch the full episode of Pickup Lines, a digital talk show hosted by Ernie Zuniga, where Rush shares her personal journey along with other notable guests.
More Pickup Lines episodes can be found featuring a diverse range of guests, including executives and small business owners, as they offer personal stories and insights into their respective journeys.
