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

  • Mentorship Matters: Cultivating Mentor-Mentee Connections
    • Multimedia
    • Author

    To celebrate National Mentoring Month, we discuss the transformative power of mentorship in higher education, exploring the qualities and impact of a successful mentor-mentee relationship, and the value of both formal and informal guidance.

  • 5 Keys to Collaborating with Young Professionals
    • Multimedia
    • Author

    In this episode, hosts and guests discuss five essential principles for effectively managing or collaborating with young professionals, including the importance of feedback, meaningful work, transparency, personalized support, and a culture of continuous learning.

  • Fostering Brave Space: Reflections on Brené Brown's Dare to Lead
    • Multimedia
    • Author

    In this episode, the discussion centers around leadership insights from Brene Brown’s book <em>Dare to Lead</em>, exploring themes like authenticity, vulnerability, and building trust in the workplace. Hosts Wes Johnson and Sarah J. Buszka also share tips for making the most of your EDUCAUSE 2024 Conference experience.

EDUCAUSE Presentations