About Sarah
Let me introduce myself: I’m an award-winning author, researcher, and communications professional based in Hamilton, Ontario.
I have over twenty years of experience delivering communications initiatives and high-level research for some of Canada’s most respected organizations, including national and local publications, the University of Toronto, and a global professional services firm. I specialize in developing results-focused outreach strategies that raise brand awareness through effective market positioning and targeted audience engagement.
A former journalist, I have written hundreds of articles for online and print publications. I’ve contributed pieces on social, political, and economic issues to weekly newspapers, such as the Kitchener-Waterloo Echo, Pulse Niagara, and View Magazine. In the course of my work, I interviewed global thought leaders, local activists, and elected officials at all levels of government in order to provide readers with cutting-edge news and analysis. I’ve also authored celebrity profiles and entertainment reviews for the national publication Inside Entertainment.
My focus on high-level execution resonates throughout my work. A seasoned professional, I emphasize accessible and transparent leadership in all my endeavours. I have led large teams in agile environments, comprehensively educated
new and existing staff on complex procedures, and utilized change management best practices to inspire openness to organizational shifts.
My professional background is complemented by extensive university training in communication theory, sociology, and ancient languages. I earned my bachelor’s degree (hons.) from York University, where I graduated summa cum laude at the top of two rigorous programs. I also hold a Master of Arts degree from the University of Toronto’s Department for the Study of Religion, a top-ten internationally-ranked program, and completed PhD coursework at York University’s Department of History. I also hold a certificate in Strategic Public Relations (University of Toronto) and am committed to staying on top of the latest developments in the field.
My original academic research has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences in North America and Europe. My work has won numerous awards, including the CSSR Essay Prize (Master’s Level), the YUFA Scholarship (for having the highest GPA in a faculty of 9,000 York University students), and the prestigious Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship, which is awarded to Canada’s highest-calibre scholars. I was also a national finalist for the SSHRC Vanier Graduate Scholarship, the highest award for PhD researchers in Canada.
A full overview of my academic career can be found here.
I am fluent in digital marketing strategies and website development—I’ve built and managed over thirty blogs, newsletters, and websites for a variety of organizations. I have considerable training in and experience with content management tools, digital imaging, and SEO techniques, as well as desktop publishing and social medial management. My first-rate communication and digital production skills offer a unique advantage for those seeking effective communications outreach.