Sarah Smith is a dynamic research administration leader known for driving operational strategy, regulatory compliance, and system-wide efficiency. As Co-Director of Pre-Award Services at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), she serves as an Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR), co-leading the submission, negotiation, and institutional management of sponsored research projects.
Sarah brings a uniquely versatile perspective to leadership and process optimization, built on a multi-disciplinary background spanning advanced research administration, education, and animal resource operations. Prior to joining the Office of Research and Technology Management (ORTM), she served as Associate Director of Pre-Award Research Support for CWRU’s Case School of Engineering. In this role, she spearheaded the design and rollout of a centralized pre-award model that streamlined cross-functional workflows and drastically reduced proposal submission turnaround times. Her foundational leadership at CWRU also includes serving as Cagewash Manager within the Animal Resource Center.
An active contributor to the national research community, Sarah is a member of the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA). She holds a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Veterinary Medicine/Biology and a Master of Education in Integrated Science from The University of Findlay, along with professional credentials as a Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR) and Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT).
Outside of her institutional role, Sarah remains deeply engaged in civic leadership, holding executive board positions with the West Geauga Recreation Council and her local sorority alumna chapter.