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Nial Patel
Principal and Director,
Cornerstone Government Affairs
Recognized as a top young leader and known for his volunteer activism, Nial Patel established himself as one of Gov. Bobby Jindal’s longest-serving senior staff members before joining Cornerstone in 2011. At Cornerstone, his areas of expertise are economic development, education, energy and environment, technology and telecommunications, and transportation and infrastructure. He serves on the leadership boards of numerous local organizations.
EDUCATION
Master’s degree in economics, LSU E. J. Ourso College of Business
CAUSES I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT
I strongly believe that an excellent education is the only way for Louisiana to succeed in so many areas. It creates economic opportunities leading to better health outcomes and infrastructure while reducing crime and fostering a vibrant quality of life.
THEME SONG FOR MY LIFE
“Humble and Kind,” by Tim McGraw
LAST BOOK THAT MADE AN IMPACT ON ME
The Tipping Point, by Malcolm Gladwell. It discusses the law of the few, and it helped me realize I shouldn’t try to be someone I am not. I am a connector and love bringing people together for a greater good.
HOW I STAY HEALTHY
Walking
MOST VALUABLE LESSON FROM A DIFFICULT EXPERIENCE
Life is short, so live each day as if it’s your last. Also I am trying to work on being sure I give flowers to those who are meaningful in my life.
DESTINATION OF CHOICE
New York City
FAVORITE LOCAL HIDDEN GEM
Ivar’s for sure. I’ve had too much fun and very deep conversations there as well.
BEVERAGE OF CHOICE
I love a very cold Coke, but I typically just order tea these days.
FAVORITE MOVIE CHARACTER
Michael Corleone from The Godfather
QUOTE THAT HAS STUCK WITH ME
Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.
PROUDEST MOMENT
It meant so much to be recognized as Young Businessperson of the Year and Volunteer Activist of the Year. My dad wasn’t able to celebrate with me, but he was very heavy in my heart on those days because I learned so much about service from him.
ON MY BUCKET LIST
I want to see Mount Everest.
SUPERPOWER OF CHOICE
I’d love to be able to read people’s minds. It would be so interesting and efficient in trying to negotiate things.
ADVICE ON HOW TO MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON THE CAPITAL REGION
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
HISTORICAL FIGURE I’D MOST LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Dwight Eisenhower. His leadership and insights on getting things done in challenging times would be very interesting.
MOST MEMORABLE JOB
I loved waiting tables at Albasha during my time in college. It taught me a lot about relationships, service, hard work and managing money.
