Sarah W. Rose serves as Chief Impact Officer at United Way of Greater New Bedford, where she leads the organization's community investments as a member of the leadership team. She works closely with the board and community partners to advance strategies that strengthen local capacity and expand opportunity across key impact areas. Sarah is especially passionate about developing innovative initiatives and securing the resources needed to help them grow.
Sarah brings a multidisciplinary perspective to her work, with a BA from Wheaton College, an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business, and an MAT from Simmons University. Her background blends analytical rigor with a human-centered approach to build strong, connected communities.
An active civic leader, Sarah contributes to several regional and national efforts, including the United Way Worldwide Impact Council, the Massachusetts Early Childhood Funder Collaborative Steering Committee, the Bristol Community College New Bedford Advisory Board, and the LEADS Southcoast Fellowship.
Sarah has called Greater New Bedford home since 2014 and she is inspired by the region’s resilience and cultural richness. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the SouthCoast’s natural beauty by biking the Rail Trail, boating on Buzzards Bay, kayaking the Slocum River, and swimming in Clark’s Cove.
A fun fact about Sarah - she grew up on a small island in Long Island Sound, where she developed her appreciation for close-knit communities.
Favorite quote:
“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” — Margaret J. Wheatley
