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Dawn Sweeney
Former President & CEO-National Restaurant Association / Advisor / Board Member /Executive-In-Residence at Georgetown University
Dawn Sweeney is a prominent business leader and public company director, currently serving as an Independent Director at SITE Centers Corp., a role she has held since October 2018. In addition to her position at SITE Centers, she is the Chairman of The Bryce Harlow Foundation and the Vice Chairman of Save the Children Action Network. Sweeney also serves on the boards of several other organizations, including MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital and RIV Capital, Inc..1
Educational Background and Early Career: Sweeney earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Government from Colby College in 1981 and later obtained an MBA from George Washington University in 1989. Her career began at the International Dairy Foods Association, where she worked in various roles including education coordinator and lobbyist. She subsequently became President and CEO of AARP Services, Inc., where she significantly increased revenue and product offerings for AARP's members.12
Leadership Roles: Sweeney is notably recognized for her tenure as the longest-serving and first female President and CEO of the National Restaurant Association from 2007 to 2019. During her leadership, she advanced the interests of the restaurant industry, overseeing substantial growth in membership and revenue while implementing significant governance reforms.23
She has been actively involved in various philanthropic efforts, including her long-standing association with Save the Children, where she has contributed to governance reviews and strategic initiatives.2 Sweeney's leadership skills are complemented by her commitment to diversity and inclusion within corporate environments.
Recognition: Dawn Sweeney has received multiple accolades throughout her career, including being named "Trade Association CEO of the Year" twice and recognized as one of Washingtonian Magazine's "Most Powerful Women" for several consecutive years.23 She is also a certified director through the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) and has participated in leadership programs at prestigious institutions like Harvard Business School.13
In summary, Dawn Sweeney is a highly accomplished executive with extensive experience in nonprofit management, corporate governance, and advocacy, making significant contributions to both the business community and philanthropic initiatives.

