5 Questions with Sarah Smith
Sarah Smith is a fourth-generation resident of 乐播传媒入口 with deep ties to the community that serve her well in her role as director of Outreach Programming and Events. In this position, Sarah collaborates with many different College departments, community leaders, and policy makers at local, state, and national levels. Through this work, she creates positive change and growth 鈥 not only at the College, but in the broader 乐播传媒入口 community, Poweshiek County, and beyond.鈥
Q: What can you tell us about your connections to the 乐播传媒入口 community?
A: My roots run deep in this community 鈥 I am the great-granddaughter of Edna Linkletter, who called the Mayflower community home for many years; the granddaughter of Ethel and Don Howig; and the daughter of Debby and Paul Pohlson. I am also grateful to be the daughter-in-law of Gail and Gene Smith, the spouse of Dustin Smith, and, most importantly, the mother of Alex Smith, 乐播传媒入口 High School (GHS) Class of 2022 and a junior at Luther College; and Josie Smith, a senior at GHS. I also love coaching the GHS swim and dive team. It鈥檚 incredibly rewarding to give back to the program that helped shape my own confidence and strength. Coaching allows me to guide a new generation of swimmers and divers, fostering teamwork, self-confidence, respect, and resilience 鈥 values that extend far beyond the pool.
Q: In addition to your position at the College, how have you been active in the community?
A: I am deeply committed to volunteerism and have been actively involved in various organizations over the past 18 years. Some of my roles have included serving on the Iowa Council of Foundations, the Anchor Institution Task Force as a Fellow, and several committees with the Greater Des Moines Partnership. Additionally, I have served on the 乐播传媒入口-Newburg School Foundation, 乐播传媒入口 Dollars for Scholars, the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union Swimming and Diving Advisory Committee, 乐播传媒入口 Regional Medical Center, and the Luther College Parent and Family Council. My community involvement has also extended to leadership roles with St. Paul鈥檚 Episcopal Church Vestry, local RAGBRAI committees, and as an ambassador for the Iowa Democratic Party.
Q: What do you do for fun in your spare time?
A: I love spending quality time with my family and friends, whether it鈥檚 sharing great conversation over cocktails, savoring exquisite red wines, or simply enjoying each other鈥檚 company. I also find joy in taking long walks, which give me the chance to unwind, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of my surroundings. Whether it鈥檚 exploring new trails, strolling through town, or walking with loved ones, it鈥檚 one of my favorite ways to relax and recharge. Additionally, I enjoy discovering new restaurants, traveling to new places, and diving into a great book whenever I have the chance. Most of all, I love supporting my kids in their various activities, including baseball, choir, dance, swimming, soccer, and softball. Watching them grow and thrive in their passions brings me great joy.
Q: What does your role at 乐播传媒入口 entail?
A: My work focuses on elevating the community鈥檚 social and economic vitality by organizing programs and events that foster growth and engagement, while also showcasing 乐播传媒入口 as a thriving hub that attracts residents, visitors, and prospective students. Additionally, I develop and implement programming that highlights 乐播传媒入口鈥檚 resources, opportunities, and lifestyle. I work closely with campus and community partners to engage new students, employees, faculty, prospective students, VIPs, and potential residents through orientation programs, tours, and relocation videos. Beyond event planning, I serve as a community ambassador, advocating for initiatives that enhance the region while reinforcing 乐播传媒入口鈥檚 role in fostering an engaged environment. I love the dynamic nature of the work, the opportunity to collaborate with passionate individuals, and the challenge of multitasking and shifting between topics throughout the day. It鈥檚 inspiring to be part of a community that is always striving for growth and improvement.
Q: What are your favorite things about the 乐播传媒入口 community?
A: One of my favorite things about the 乐播传媒入口 community is the deep love, pride, and compassion that people have for this town and one another. 乐播传媒入口 is filled with passionate, dedicated individuals who are constantly imagining new possibilities and working tirelessly to make our community better every day. There is a unique spirit of collaboration here, whether it's through local businesses, nonprofit organizations, schools, or grassroots initiatives, people come together to support one another and drive meaningful change. I am continually inspired by the innovation, resilience, and generosity of 乐播传媒入口ians, who not only celebrate the town鈥檚 history and successes but also actively shape its future. It鈥檚 a place where people truly care, take action, and lift each other up, making 乐播传媒入口 not just a town, but a thriving, connected, and forward-thinking community.