Dara Eskridge, CEO of Invest STL, has been named to TIME’s 2026 Closers List, which recognizes Black leaders working to close racial equity gaps nationwide.
Eskridge is one of 18 leaders selected for the list, which highlights individuals advancing equity through policy, investment and community development. She was also named to TIME’s 100 Next in 2025.
An urban planner, architect and philanthropic leader, Eskridge works to expand opportunities for wealth building and community power in Black and other racially and economically marginalized neighborhoods. Under her leadership, more than $10 million has been aggregated and directed to St. Louis’ legacy Black neighborhoods.