Her Story
About Sarah
Sarah J. Buszka, MPA, is an internationally recognized higher education technology leader, artificial intelligence policy expert, and strategic innovator with more than 15 years of experience advancing digital transformation across leading academic institutions. As Executive Director of the Applied AI Lab at Waukesha County Technical College, she leads a regional innovation hub that brings together higher education, industry, entrepreneurs, venture capital, government, and workforce partners to accelerate AI adoption, workforce development, and economic growth. She also serves as Managing Partner and Founder of Forward AI Consulting, helping organizations develop responsible AI strategies, governance frameworks, and AI literacy initiatives.
Prior to her current leadership roles, Sarah held technology leadership positions at Stanford University and the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she led enterprise technology strategy, data governance, AI policy initiatives, infrastructure modernization, and cross-functional digital transformation programs. A graduate of Cornell University with a Master of Public Administration earned summa cum laude, she combines expertise in public policy, nonprofit leadership, higher education technology, and artificial intelligence to help organizations responsibly implement emerging technologies while creating lasting institutional impact. She is also a Visiting Lecturer at Cornell University, where she teaches graduate learners how to develop practical, organization-wide AI and automation strategies.
Beyond her executive leadership, Sarah is deeply committed to developing the next generation of technology leaders. She co-hosts the EDUCAUSE Rising Voices Podcast, formerly chaired the EDUCAUSE Young Professionals Advisory Committee, and actively builds talent pipelines that empower students and early-career professionals to thrive in AI and higher education technology. Recognized with the prestigious EDUCAUSE Rising Star Award and the Business Relationship Management Institute Rising Star Spotlight, Sarah is widely respected for her collaborative leadership, commitment to responsible AI, and dedication to creating opportunities that strengthen communities, organizations, and the future workforce.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sarah
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being a first-generation college graduate and developing a strong work ethic from an early age after starting my first job at 12 years old. Those experiences taught me perseverance, resilience, and the importance of creating my own competitive advantage through continuous learning and dedication.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
You can learn something from anyone.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I believe every young woman should know that she belongs in this field. She deserves to take up space, and her unique perspective is valuable, necessary, and urgently needed. I encourage women to be confident in their abilities, contribute their ideas, and recognize the meaningful impact they can make.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe one of the greatest challenges facing higher education is changing public perception and reinforcing its long-term value. Artificial intelligence faces a similar perception challenge. Rather than fearing AI, we should embrace it responsibly, develop strong governance, and leverage it to expand opportunities for education, innovation, and workforce development.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Respect and self-respect are the values that guide both my professional and personal life. I believe treating others with dignity while maintaining confidence in my own values creates the foundation for effective leadership, collaboration, and meaningful impact.
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