20 Under 40: Sarah Crowell

What do you do? (job, community involvement)

I work for the National Institutes of Health, where I lead a group that does business optimization research. Because my job is remote, it has been important for me to find ways to contribute to Duluth. To this end, I have worked and volunteered with several community organizations since moving here five years ago, including the Junior League of Duluth, University of Wisconsin-Superior, Northland Human Resource Association, WDSE/WRPT, Hartley Nature Center and St. Luke's.

How do you spend your free time?

I enjoy spending free time with my spouse and our two kids, as well as finding creative ways to connect with extended family and friends. Before COVID, I also enjoyed exploring Duluth's creative arts scene, including Zenith City Horror, Duluth Playhouse, Zeitgeist and Renegade productions, Wise Fool Theater, and Superior Ballroom classes.

Tell us about an influential person in your life.

My parents. My dad was the kind of inspirational preacher that made you want to jump out of the seat and say "Amen!" He was a great organizational leader, too. My mom is a pioneer, a woman who has become a leading legal ethicist, in addition to being a great mom. I learned a lot about the importance of family and servant leadership from their example.

Where is your favorite place in Duluth/Superior?

Any spot that connects me to Lake Superior. I especially like Brighton Beach.

What have you learned in your time spent at home during the pandemic?

The importance of flexibility and resiliency.