Her Story
About Sara
Sara Acevedo, CRM, is a claims adjuster at Sedgwick and an emerging leader in the risk management and insurance industry. In her role, she manages workers’ compensation claims across multiple accounts, overseeing litigation processes, evaluating treatment recommendations, mitigating losses, and working toward fair and timely resolutions for all parties involved. Her background in both risk management and claims has equipped her with a strong foundation in analytical problem-solving, relationship building, and strategic decision-making.
Prior to joining Sedgwick, Sara gained experience in personal lines insurance and corporate risk management, including serving in the Risk Management Department at Academy Sports & Outdoors. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Risk Management and Insurance from the University of Houston–Downtown and holds the Certified Risk Manager (CRM) designation through The National Alliance. She is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Leadership at the University of Houston–Downtown.
A passionate advocate for professional development and servant leadership, Sara serves as President of the Gamma Iota Sigma Beta Kappa Chapter at the University of Houston–Downtown and as Co-Chair of the Gamma Iota Sigma Houston Alumni Chapter. Through mentorship, networking, and industry engagement, she is dedicated to creating opportunities for students and emerging professionals while helping strengthen the future of the risk management and insurance profession.
As a first-generation college graduate, professional leader, and lifelong learner, Sara is committed to empowering others through education, service, and leadership, leaving a lasting impact on both her community and the industry she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sara
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my children, who motivate me every day to work hard, continue learning, and strive to be the best version of myself. They inspire me to lead by example, and my hope is that one day they can look back and say that their mom made a positive difference in the lives of others.
I also attribute my success to perseverance, servant leadership, and a genuine passion for helping others grow. As President of the Gamma Iota Sigma Beta Kappa Chapter at the University of Houston–Downtown, I have focused on increasing student engagement and creating meaningful opportunities for professional development. Through networking events, educational programs, and industry partnerships, our chapter more than doubled in size within a single academic year. That growth was not simply about increasing membership—it was about building a community where students feel supported, connected, and empowered to pursue careers in risk management and insurance.
Those experiences have reinforced my belief that success comes from investing in people. Whether through mentorship, leadership, or creating opportunities for others, I am committed to helping develop the next generation of professionals one event, one connection, and one opportunity at a time.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
From a mentor at a networking event: look at everyone in the room, they might report to you or you to them or bring opportunities, so don't burn bridges and stay in contact with everyone you meet. This advice has stuck with me for the past 3 years.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Utilize your resources and build community with other women in the industry. Reach out, ask questions, speak up, and support each other. As women entering a traditionally male-dominated field, ensure your voice is heard and help others as you may need help in the future. Establish meaningful connections to get work done efficiently.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges facing the risk management and insurance industry is talent acquisition and a lack of awareness about the many career opportunities available. Many professionals currently in senior roles entered the industry without initially realizing the breadth of opportunities within risk and insurance. This highlights the need for greater visibility and education about the profession, especially as experienced leaders retire and organizations prepare to develop the next generation of industry professionals.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, perseverance, servant leadership, and family. I believe in doing the right thing even when no one is watching, staying committed through challenges, and using my experiences to help others grow and succeed.
As a mother, family is at the center of everything I do. My children motivate me to continue learning, pursuing new opportunities, and striving to make a meaningful impact. I want them to see that hard work, resilience, and kindness can open doors and create positive change.
Professionally, I am passionate about servant leadership and investing in the next generation. Whether through my work in claims, mentoring students, or leading Gamma Iota Sigma initiatives, I believe that success is not just about personal achievement but about creating opportunities for others. I am committed to building relationships, supporting professional growth, and helping individuals realize their potential.
Above all, I value making a difference. If I can leave people, organizations, and communities better than I found them, then I consider that success.
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