Award recognizes innovative and successful leadership in people‑oriented transportation initiatives
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 15, 2026) — The Transportation Research Board (TRB) has named Diane Gutierrez‑Scaccetti, HNTB national practice consultant and senior vice president, the recipient of the 2026 Sharon D. Banks Award for Humanitarian Leadership in Transportation. The award recognizes innovative and successful leadership in people‑oriented transportation initiatives that reflect the humanity and service exemplified by the late Sharon D. Banks. The award was presented during the Chair’s Plenary Session at the TRB Annual Meeting on Jan. 14, 2026, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.
Gutierrez‑Scaccetti is recognized for her career‑long efforts to ensure transportation systems truly serve the people who rely on them. Throughout her public‑sector leadership — spanning the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), the New Jersey Turnpike Authority and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise — she has emphasized transparency, customer service and the foundational belief that transportation is the circulatory system of the economy, connecting communities and enabling opportunity.
Her dedication aligns closely with the ideals of Sharon D. Banks, the former AC Transit general manager and 1998 TRB Executive Committee chair, for whom the award is named.
HNTB’s Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti
Gutierrez‑Scaccetti joined HNTB in 2025 after more than four decades guiding policy, funding and delivery of major transportation programs. She most recently served as chief of staff to the Governor of New Jersey, where she helped advance major legislative and budget initiatives. Prior to that, as commissioner of NJDOT (2018–2024), she oversaw an eight‑year, $16‑billion capital program and led statewide transportation agency boards.
Her leadership history also includes serving as executive director/CEO of both the New Jersey Turnpike Authority and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, where she oversaw multibillion‑dollar work programs and delivered significant operational improvements.
“Sharon D. Banks showed our industry what true people‑focused leadership looks like. She championed service, inclusivity and a belief that transportation should uplift every community it touches. I am humbled to receive an award in her honor, and I remain dedicated to advancing the kind of humane, purpose‑driven work she championed throughout her life,” said Gutierrez-Scaccetti.
At HNTB, Gutierrez‑Scaccetti advises project and client teams nationwide on strategy, capital program development, funding, stakeholder engagement and accelerated delivery.
About the Sharon D. Banks Award
The Sharon D. Banks Award is a biennial honor that recognizes leaders who exemplify humanity, service and success in advancing people‑oriented transportation initiatives. The award commemorates Sharon D. Banks, former general manager of AC Transit in Oakland, Calif., who was known for her visionary leadership and commitment to community‑focused mobility.