Sarah Hagan, LT'24

Reflections from the Current Class: Sarah Hagan, LT’24

Engaged leadership is the foundation of thriving communities.

For 40 years, Leadership Tomorrow has worked at the forefront of civic engagement to cultivate a network of inclusive, courageous, and curious leaders across Puget Sound. As we celebrate this special milestone, we are proud to highlight stories from LT alumni who continue to shape our region into a vibrant, vital community where all can thrive. Explore moments from their leadership journeys, past and present, as we consider collectively what challenges and opportunities lay ahead in the next 40 years—and beyond.

Left to right: Kristin Misner-Gutierrez, Lt’24, Sarah Hagan, LT’24, Nicole Marshall, LT’24

How has LT influenced your approach to leadership?
LT’s focus on collective leadership shifted my perspective of leadership from “leader-led” to “leader-cultivated.” In other words, moving from a top-down model to an environment where individuals can lean in based on their strengths. As someone with positional power at work, how can I foster a work environment such that everyone can share their perspective of the work we’re doing? How can I ensure that the quiet voices are heard? How can we work together to change the norms of traditional leadership so we are the change we wish to see in the workplace? 

How has your experience in LT contributed to your understanding of the region’s challenges and opportunities? 
It’s easy to perceive the greater Seattle area’s problems with a lens of what the media shows, but most of the time, that lens is shaped without the experiences of those most affected. LT highlighted where some of the region’s opportunities could be strengthened if we listen to those most affected in combination with what the data is telling us, and how to account for lived experience in broader action planning.

Photo: Sarah with her lab teammates

Why do you think LT is important in 2024 and for the next 40 years? 
LT is the first time I have been surrounded by individuals who are all trying to make this region a better place. While originally anticipating a “doom and gloom” environment, I have been overwhelmingly impressed with every individual—across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors—trying to make the Puget Sound region a better place through community stewardship. While we have a long way to go, LT members from the past, present, and future will continue to help our region change with dedication and a positive mindset.

Have you experienced any unexpected benefits from the program?

While I knew LT is a cohort-based program, I was delightfully surprised at how cohesive our cohort became, almost immediately. Belonging is an LT value, and starting with the first retreat, I immediately felt the interconnectedness of our group and commitment to each other’s well-being that has persisted throughout the year. I look forward to maintaining my connections with some of the greatest humans I’ve been blessed to meet.