Sarah Smith

As Director, Learning and Evaluation, Sarah is responsible for developing the organization’s overall approach to learning and evaluation to help the Foundation and its partners understand progress, generate insights, and develop and refine strategies. She works with the team to foster a culture of learning to strengthen and accelerate the Foundation’s work toward its vision, mission, and values.

Sarah joined the Blue Cross NC Foundation in early 2020. Prior to joining the organization, she worked at Missouri Foundation for Health as a Learning Officer where she was responsible for developing structures and systems to monitor progress and assess effectiveness on multiple programmatic and operational teams.

Sarah received her bachelor’s degree in music and psychology from the University of Washington in Seattle and both a Master of Social Work and Master of Public Health from Washington University in St. Louis.

What I love about my work:
I believe learning and evaluation practices can bring people together to make progress on work that doesn’t lend itself to a linear path. I love working with individuals and groups to help them make their thinking visible, challenge existing assumptions, and develop new ideas to approach complex issues.

When not at my desk:
You will likely find me reading a book, volunteering with a local nonprofit to establish housing in the Triangle area for people with disabilities, attending a concert, connecting with family, or exploring the local restaurant scene.

Favorite thing about North Carolina:
I love the state’s art, music, trails, food, and sports!