Sarah Kott
Sarah Kott, MPH is a dedicated public health professional currently serving as a Population Health Manager with the Virginia Department of Health. With a strong commitment to improving community well-being, Sarah leads initiatives that focus on advancing population health outcomes through collaboration, education, and evidence-based strategies. Her work centers on addressing health disparities and supporting programs that create lasting, measurable impacts across Virginia.
Before joining the Department of Health, Sarah gained valuable experience in clinical research and behavioral health. She served as a Research Team Coordinator at Virginia Tech and a Clinical Research Coordinator at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, where she supported studies aimed at advancing cancer care and improving patient outcomes. Earlier in her career, she worked as a clinician with Family Preservation Services, helping individuals and families build healthier lives through mental health support and intervention programs.
Sarah holds a Master of Public Health from the University of Lynchburg and a Bachelor’s degree in History from Longwood University. Her career reflects a deep passion for community engagement, prevention, and health equity—guided by the belief that improving population health begins with understanding the people and stories behind the data.
• University of Lynchburg
• Longwood University
• Summer Intern at Piedmont Senior Services
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, purpose-driven leadership, and a deep personal connection to improving community health. Losing my sister and brother to cancer inspired me to advocate for early detection, access to care, and health equity, especially in rural communities. In my role as a Population Health Manager, I lead initiatives that improve maternal health, chronic disease management, and community resources, creating meaningful, lasting impact for the people I serve.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to focus on upstream solutions and not be discouraged by systemic barriers. Supportive colleagues and leaders have encouraged me to think beyond traditional approaches and develop programs that truly meet the needs of rural families.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering this field to stay passionate, curious, and patient. Population health is challenging and emotional work, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Let your “why” keep you grounded, learn to navigate funding challenges, and embrace creativity when resources are limited.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now include funding cuts, rural provider shortages, hospital service closures, and limited resources for chronic disease management. At the same time, there are tremendous opportunities to create grassroots community programs, improve population health outcomes, and innovate around transportation, food access, and maternal health initiatives.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Compassion, community, and advocacy guide Sarah’s work and life. She values being present for her family, acting with integrity, and ensuring that every initiative she leads genuinely improves lives. Personally, she enjoys reading, supporting her children’s activities, and creating meaningful experiences with her family.