Sarah Grado is a nonprofit leader with more than 16 years of experience turning big ideas into programs, partnerships, and resources that make a difference for communities across Arizona. Her career has centered on building programs from the ground up, expanding school-based initiatives across the state, and bringing together educators, community partners, funders, and families around a shared goal.
A relationship-builder at heart, Sarah has extensive experience in fundraising, grant development, corporate and foundation partnerships, and events. She brings an energetic, people-first approach to leadership and is known for pairing big-picture thinking with a willingness to roll up her sleeves and get things done.
Outside of work, Sarah is a mom of five and knows firsthand how important it is to give students the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities they need to build strong futures. She is also an international speaker, a graduate of the ASU Lodestar Nonprofit Leadership Academy, and a recipient of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Courage in Action Award.
As Executive Vice President of the Arizona Council on Economic Education, she is excited to help grow the organization’s reach, strengthen partnerships across Arizona, and ensure more students and educators have access to high-quality economic and financial education.