Resume

Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations

Central Arkansas Christian Schools, 2022 - Present

Advances the school's development plan to strengthen annual giving and establish energy around capital investments by internal and external constituent groups. Builds and maintains strong levels of volunteer involvement that support the mission of the school. Directs all fundraising programs and manages grants, campaigns, major gifts and all related financial procedures.

Chief of Staff to the Mayor

City of Maumelle, 2020 - 2022

As strategic advisor and integrator, provided oversight and directed public and cross-departmental collaboration and communications. Built structure and processes for better functionality and operations. Ensured alignment and engagement with stakeholders. Acted as liaison between the city and outside agencies and organizations. Oversaw grant writing and management of infrastructure projects. Managed public relations and served as mentor and guide to the city's communications coordinator.

Director of Operations

Immerse Arkansas, 2017 - 2020

Directed and monitored the day-to-day activities and long-term trajectory of the organization to ensure the collective achievement of the mission, values, and goals. Areas of responsibility included directing financial operations, grant writing and reporting, human resources, project management, capacity-building, systems analysis, communications, and community engagement.

Youth Director

Pleasant Valley Church of Christ, 2000 - 2010

Provided vision and direction for the overall youth program for 7th-12th grades by incorporating learning, service, accountability and support. Organized, equipped, and encouraged a team of approximately 30 volunteers to reach 150-200 youth annually. Utilized the latest technological innovations to best reach teens. Taught classes and lead discussion groups. Mentored teen girls and trained other mentors.

• Constituent relations, public speaking, group facilitation, and training strategy

• Public finance, fundraising, and grant administration

• Proficient in EOS, WBS, and CRM systems in project management, communications, and operations

• Team leadership, mediation, conflict resolution, and staff development, including EOS implementation

CPM Program Advisory Council Member

Arkansas Public Administration Consortium, 2024

As a member of the Arkansas Certified Public Manager® (CPM) Advisory Council, Sarah provides essential guidance by offering recommendations for continuous improvement, shaping program goals to keep it relevant for the public sector, and promoting the CPM program as the premier training and development resource for public sector managers.

Inaugural Recipient of the Meriwether Endowed Scholarship

University of Arkansas at Little Rock, 2024

Established to support students pursuing a Master of Public Administration at UA Little Rock, the Meriwether Endowed Scholarship helps fund the education of future public servants committed to following in former Little Rock city manager Jack Meriwether’s footsteps.

Therapeutic Foster Parent

Benchmark Family Services, 2014-2018

Offered loving, therapeutic, in-home care for children in the foster system. Work with case managers, biological parents, support specialists, CASA volunteers, and the court system to ensure the best possible outcome for each child’s future.

Volunteer Drama Director

White River Christian Homeschool Cooperative, 2016-2017

Planned, directed and executed the annual children’s musical production, involving a cast of 36 students, ages 8-12. Recruited and guided volunteers. Maintained effective communication with parents, volunteers and board of directors. Managed the annual department operating budget. By drawing out the best in each student, produced an entertaining musical with excellence for families in our city and surrounding community.

Speaking Engagements

Sarah has delivered presentations for various agencies, including Dynamic Marriages, Making Connections Early Childhood Conference, Parenting with Love and Logic, BSF International, White River Christian Home Educators, and classes or retreats for various churches and youth groups.