DURHAM, N.C. — Therapy Smarts is proud to announce that Sarup Shah, MBA, Chief Financial and Operations Officer (CFOO), has been named one of the 2026 Triangle Business Journal Corporate Leadership Awards winners. The annual awards recognize exceptional CEOs and executive leaders who are driving innovation, organizational growth, and lasting impact throughout the Triangle business community.

Shah joins an outstanding group of executive leaders from across the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill region who have demonstrated excellence in leadership while helping their organizations achieve significant growth and success. The Triangle Business Journal selected this year’s honorees for their vision, strategic leadership, and commitment to strengthening the businesses and communities they serve.

Since joining Therapy Smarts in 2025, Shah has played a pivotal role in the organization’s rapid expansion and operational success. As Chief Financial and Operations Officer, he oversees financial strategy, business operations, organizational growth, and long-term planning across the company’s pediatric therapy clinics. His leadership has helped position Therapy Smarts as one of the fastest-growing pediatric therapy providers in North Carolina while maintaining a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional care for children and families.

Therapy Smarts Founder and CEO Avani Shah, M.Ed., CCC-SLP, praised Shah’s leadership and contributions to the organization.

“Sarup has been instrumental in helping Therapy Smarts grow strategically while ensuring we never compromise the quality of care we provide to our families,” said Avani Shah. “His ability to combine thoughtful financial leadership with a genuine passion for our mission has strengthened every aspect of our organization. This recognition is incredibly well deserved, and we are proud to celebrate this achievement alongside him.”

The recognition continues a landmark year for Therapy Smarts. Earlier this year, Founder and CEO Avani Shah was recognized as a Triangle Business Journal Health Care Leadership Award Honoree, reflecting the organization’s commitment to excellence in both clinical care and executive leadership.

Founded in 2016, Therapy Smarts has become one of the Triangle’s leading pediatric therapy providers, offering speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), mental health therapy, and psychological evaluations. The organization recently earned national recognition as an Inc. 5000 company, ranking No. 1,792 among America’s fastest-growing private companies, and has been voted Best Therapists in Durham and Best Physical Therapists in Chapel Hill by readers of Durham Magazine and Chapel Hill Magazine.

As Therapy Smarts continues its growth throughout North Carolina, Shah remains focused on building sustainable operations, expanding access to pediatric therapy services, and supporting the organization’s mission of helping every child turn their challenges in triumphs.