About me

Over my two-decade career in public health, I have blended creative approaches with evidence-based knowledge. I strongly believe in the power of communication to improve health systems and save lives. I am driven by my passion for sexual and reproductive health for all, and that has been the primary focus in my career. However, I have worked across topic areas—from communicable disease elimination to HIV prevention and COVID-19. I love learning and applying my skills to new areas of health.

My main areas of programmatic expertise include advocacy, knowledge management, storytelling, multi-sectoral approaches, and social and behavior change. I also have particular interests in gender integration, integration of climate change and health initiatives, and adolescent/youth engagement in health programs and services. A natural connector, I love collaboration and partnerships. In addition, I value coaching and mentoring—I have supervised individuals, managed teams, and mentored dozens of public health professionals, particularly young people in early stages of their careers.

I have facilitated workshops for a range of audiences—including health service providers, donors, journalists, research staff, policy makers, and clients. My work experience spans a variety of international settings in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and North America. I have written and produced guidebooks, journal articles, blog posts, and podcast episodes, among other products. A Spanish speaker, I particularly enjoy working with Spanish-speaking communities.

I received my BA in Religious Studies and Latin American Studies from Grinnell College (2001), and my MPH (Maternal and Child Health) from the University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health (2005). A native Texan from the border region of El Paso, I also recognize the importance of applying global health principles to our own communities in North America.

I reside in Durham, North Carolina, USA, with my two sons. When not working, I enjoy spending time outdoors and playing music.

Contact me

Interested in working together? Email me at sarah.harlan@gmail.com or connect on LinkedIn and I will get back to you shortly!

Photo: Sarah V. Harlan