For more than 25 years, Sara has been passionate about health and well-being, a commitment that carries through to her professional work. She believes thoughtfully designed recreation and wellness environments have the power to inspire lifelong well-being and strengthen communities.
In her role as Recreation Practice Leader, Sara advocates for the importance of both community and collegiate recreation centers as the embodiment of Moody Nolan’s core values. Impacting tens of thousands of students and community members each year, Sara’s practice focuses on all dimensions of human well-being—physical, mental, social, and environmental. Her work spans more than 20 years of licensed practice, from the Santiago Community Center in Santa Ana to the career-defining nine-story University of Pittsburgh Recreation and Wellness Center.
Her influence extends well beyond individual projects. Sara co-authored Facility Building & Renovation, part of the NIRSA Campus Recreation Essentials series (forthcoming, 2026), and is the only architect among its five authors. She has presented at national forums including NIRSA, Athletic Business, and the Big Ten Recreation Conference, and contributed to AIA Ohio, AIA Ohio Valley Region, and AIA Florida. Equally committed to the profession itself, Sara has championed emerging professionals through mentorship, AIA leadership at the local, state, and national levels, and the formation of Moody Nolan’s Emerging Professionals program. She received the AIA Ohio Mentor Award in 2018, in recognition of her service.