Sarah Burns

Studio intern

Sarah Burns is an incoming senior studying international relations through a joint degree program between the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA, and the University of St Andrews in St Andrews, Scotland. Between the two universities, she has been involved in Amnesty International, an Appalachian music ensemble where she plays the cello, and William and Mary’s Institute for Integrated Conservation as a GIS intern.

Originally from northern Indiana, she developed a passion for community building, especially in rural and low-income communities. This passion developed during the summer after her freshman year of college when she interned for her local Trustee Office, where she helped community members with applications for rental and utility assistance. She was drawn to The Harwood Institute because of its commitment to healing divided communities across the United States, and in particular because of its work in rural and midwestern areas. This summer, she is excited to help with the Harwood School’s engagement and networking, as well as assist with the partnership between the Institute and William and Mary for the university’s Year of Civic Leadership.

Outside of work and school, Sarah loves to travel and be in nature. She has been to various national parks and over 25 countries. A proud Canadian-American, she especially enjoys spending time outdoors with her family in New Brunswick and Alberta. On a typical day, you can find Sarah with her family and friends or planning her next adventure.