For years, her work unfolded behind the scenes, quite literally. She spent 20 years as a theatrical designer followed by five years shaping the next generation of creatives as a scenic design professor and coordinator for the Design and Technology BFA program at UWSP.
In 2022 she made the deliberate decision not to seek tenure to pursue other interests. With a two-year clock on her contract, she leaned into exploration. That path led her to the MBA program at UWSP, where collaboration with leaders like Dr. Lyna Matesi and colleague Jessica Andreae developed the early idea for what now is called the UWSP Ruth E. Salzman Center for Women’s Leadership, an initiative rooted in equity, leadership, and connection.
It was through this work that she first engaged with the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin. At a Community Lunch Hour, she and Lyna shared the vision for the Women’s Center, planting the seeds for what would become a much deeper relationship.
Not long after, a chance encounter changed everything.
Following a campus talk by Daryl Davis, the remarkable black Blues musician and activist who spent much of his life connecting with members of the KKK and convincing many of them to leave, she crossed paths with Jenny Riggenbach, our Community Foundation CEO. Inspired by the moment and guided by a willingness to step into the unknown, she expressed interest in the part-time leadership role with the Women’s Fund of Portage County.
What followed was a period of growth, learning, listening, and building relationships across Central Wisconsin. Today, as Director of Community Leadership, she plays a vital role in advancing the Community Foundation’s mission. Her work spans the Women’s Fund, the Community Grants Program, and Nonprofit Excellence initiatives, each grounded in a deep understanding of community needs and a commitment to meaningful, measurable impact.
Through her leadership, the Community Foundation strengthens nonprofit excellence, invests in priority issues, and fosters collaboration across sectors. By developing thoughtful strategies and clear indicators of success, the Community Foundation ensures that every grant, partnership, and initiative contributes to lasting change.
Her journey reflects the very essence of the Community Foundation’s impact: empowering individuals to bring their unique talents forward in service of something greater. In doing so, creating a stronger, more connected Central Wisconsin for all.
Thank you Sarah for your expertise, positive energy, and all that you do for the community.