Member Spotlight: Sara Engelhart
1.Tell me a little about yourself.
I am a Des Moines girl through and through. I grew up in Urbandale and now live in Grimes with my husband, John, and our two daughters. I love living in a place where I can be anonymous one minute and discover multiple “seven-degree” connections at a coffee shop the next. I’m a naturally curious, creative person who loves good stories, good conversations and finding ways to bring ideas to life.
2. What drew you to public relations in the first place?
When public relations found me, I was a little hesitant at first. I was doing PR for a construction equipment manufacturer, so it didn’t initially feel all that glamorous until I went to my first trade show. My CONEXPO-CON/AGG people know what I’m talking about — it's always awe-inspiring. As a people person, what drew me in was the connections I was able to make and feeling like I was helping share stories that were important for people to hear.
3. What has your career path looked like? What is your current role?
The spark for sharing a good story was ignited when I landed a leading anchor role for Des Moines’ Channel 12 news show my senior year in high school, which was put on by Central Campus at the time. After graduating from Drake University with a degree in mass communications and journalism, I’ve been a digital editor for a national magazine; contributed to the Better Homes & Gardens Red Plaid Cookbook (15th edition); hosted a radio show; voiced video scripts; and authored countless press releases, radio ads, event scripts, employee intranet stories, and magazine articles. As a multi-passionate creative, I explored a variety of communications-related career endeavors. Working at Trilix as a Senior Communications Specialist, I love that I get the chance to pursue my wide range of interests all from one desk.
4. How did you get involved with PRSA Iowa?
I feel fortunate to be able to join through my employer. Trilix is supportive of my interest in growing as a communicator and getting me access to quality trainings and information. My leadership also knows I love meeting new people and being in the community. I knew I could find all of that at PRSA Iowa. I attended an OcoPRfest, recently joined a committee and am excited for more opportunities to get connected with my fellow members.
5. What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Rather than advice, a question I’ve been reflecting on is “How can you be ahead or behind in life when you are moving on a path that only you can take?”
6. What do you like to do in your free time?
I joke that my hobby is trying new, expensive hobbies. Over the years, I’ve been a competitive cyclist, yoga instructor, health and lifestyle coach, music enthusiast, rock climber, tarot reader, taekwondo brown belt and — most recently — baker and cake decorator. You can find my latest baking adventures at @goldenflourdsm on Instagram. Most of all, I love spending time with John and our girls. I’m lucky when I can get everyone where they need to go and still squeeze in a Peloton workout.
