Hometown: Natural Bridge, Virginia 

Studies: PhD student, Pharmaceutics

About Sarah: Sarah was inspired by cardiovascular researcher and entrepreneur Leslie Leinwand, whose work showed how science and business can combine to create meaningful healthcare impact. Sarah is driven to apply this innovative mindset to her own research in mitochondrial oxidative metabolism and cardiovascular disease. She has pursued a broad range of coursework and interdisciplinary learning to develop new ideas and solutions.

Her goal is to translate basic science discoveries into life-changing therapies, focusing on improving cardiovascular health for underserved populations, especially in rural Appalachia where disease rates are high and access to care is limited. Sarah also values clear communication and hopes to make scientific findings more accessible to patients and the public.

In her free time, Sarah enjoys exploring Iowa’s many state parks, running, traveling, and has recently taken up painting as a creative hobby.