Sarah Buszka

Biography

Sarah's career in higher education technology has been marked by a diverse and impactful journey. Beginning with brain imaging research, she progressed to leading six critical infrastructure and cyberinfrastructure services at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Currently, she serves as a trusted advisor and strategic partner on technology strategy within Stanford University's schools and departments. Throughout her career, Sarah has thrived in the higher education ecosystem, demonstrating adaptability and increasing leadership.

Committed to empowering young professionals in higher education IT, Sarah chaired the EDUCAUSE Young Professionals Advisory Committee (YPAC) from 2021–2023. She continues to advocate for young professionals as necessary strategic partners in the field. As co-host of the EDUCAUSE Rising Voices Podcast, she amplifies emerging voices in higher education technology. Additionally, Sarah serves on the EDUCAUSE Corporate Engagement Advisory Council (CEAC), advising on strategic directions, programming, and initiatives to support the evolving higher education technology market.

Sarah recently completed her Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree at Cornell University. Her research explored the intersections of education, technology, policy, and organizational culture, with the goal of preparing institutions and teams to address complex challenges. Her article in the Cornell Policy Review Journal, "Shaping our AI Future: A Policy Perspective on Ensuring Innovation and Safeguarding Democracy," showcases her expertise in AI policy.

Sarah's academic background also includes a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in neurobiology, psychology, and Russian language & literature.

Sarah is the recipient of the 2024 EDUCAUSE Rising Star Award.

EDUCAUSE Publications

  • Fostering a Culture of Belonging
    • Multimedia
    • Author

    This episode explores the role of belonging in the workplace and how mentorship, identity, and self-advocacy shape professional growth.

  • A Behind the Scenes Look at Mentorship in Practice
    • Multimedia
    • Author

    Mentoring is a powerful, evolving relationship that fosters growth for both the mentor and the mentee. This conversation delves into the practical aspects of mentorship, from initiating connections to navigating participants' needs to learning from every interaction.

  • Start with Storytelling: A Masterclass
    • Multimedia
    • Author

    Storytelling is an essential skill for higher education professionals, enabling them to connect with colleagues, make complex ideas more accessible, and drive meaningful conversation. In this episode, we explore the art of narrative storytelling techniques adapted expressly for IT professionals

See All Publications by Sarah Buszka

EDUCAUSE Presentations

See All Presentations by Sarah Buszka

Membership with EDUCAUSE

Status: Yes, current member

EDUCAUSE Involvement

  • Corporate Engagement Advisory Committee (CEAC)
    • Member: 2024 - 2026
  • EDUCAUSE Young Professionals Advisory Committee
    • Member: 2021 - 2023
    • Chair: 2021 - 2023
    • Vice Chair: 2021
  • EDUCAUSE Analytics Services Design Panel
    • Member: 2017 - Present