Sara Owre applies her strong background in program management, relationship management, and education / training to Groundswell’s Operations team in her role as the Director of Operations. She believes in the power of communication and learning every day through personal endeavors and interpersonal interactions. In 2022, she managed the final stages of the DOE LIFT project to deliver the LIFT Toolkit, an online resource for equitable community solar development. In her transition to the Operations team in early 2023, she has applied her skill set to embed LIFT research findings within Groundswell’s strategic priorities and organizational development. She continues to lead strategic operational initiatives and to build staff capacity as stewards of equity and justice in the clean energy transition.
Prior to joining Groundswell, Sara worked at a global public health organization to implement malaria intervention projects. As a lifetime French speaker, Sara primarily managed projects in West African countries, learning the strength and dynamism of diverse project teams through her work. Sara has always been passionate about strengthening informal and formal education systems, and she used her talents to develop several youth summer leadership programs in the DC area in 2021-2022. Sara is eager to continue strengthening informal networks of learning to bring the highest quality energy programs to local communities through Groundswell’s work.
Sara holds a B.A. in International Affairs and French Language from The George Washington University. While at GW, Sara volunteered with initiatives such as Jumpstart and Reading Partners to provide extracurricular support in DC public schools. Outside of work, Sara continues to work with local youth by coaching a Girls On The Run chapter in Arlington, Virginia, where she inspires each girl on her team to build self-confidence, teamwork, and athletic potential. She is also an avid runner. She enjoys painting, exploring nature, and novels.