Spotlight: Sara Strope '96

 

Sara Strope, a proud graduate of the Albany Academy for Girls (AAG) Class of 1996, embodies the school’s enduring commitment to curiosity, confidence, and care. A trailblazer from her time as a student, Sara reflects on a vibrant and dynamic Academy experience that shaped her journey to becoming a Chief Marketing Officer and influential thought leader in the tech industry.

 

Sara’s years at AAG were filled with bold pursuits: from winning the Bacon Bat song competition three years in a row to joining the boys’ swim team and later founding the girls’ swim club. Sara reflects that what feels most memorable is how students were allowed and encouraged to push conventions, even when it was uncomfortable. Sara shared that in her senior year she refused to conform to the traditional “Beauty Row” seating at Guidon, choosing instead to sit in the bleachers with friends and family—a small act of defiance that echoed the values of independence and authenticity nurtured by AAG.

 

Her time at Academy wasn’t just about challenging conventions but also cultivating curiosity. Sara credits the rigorous coursework and inspiring teachers for fostering a mindset that has carried her through diverse roles, from Capitol Hill lobbyist to Chief Marketing Officer for high-growth software companies. The emphasis on asking “why” and exploring problems from multiple angles, along with performing Shakespearean monologues, laid the groundwork for her analytical and communication skills—essentials in her professional life.

 

Today, Sara serves on the Albany Academies’ Board of Trustees, lending her expertise to the school’s new brand identity. She views this initiative as an opportunity to unify two historic institutions into a single vision while preserving their rich histories. Her dedication to the Academies’ future is evident in her vision of a school where students turn curiosity into confidence, guided by caring faculty and a supportive community.

 

For Sara, the values instilled by AAG remain guiding principles: curiosity and compassion. Whether leading teams or navigating challenges, she ensures that the same caring environment she experienced during her father’s heart transplant during senior year influences how she supports others today.

 

Her advice to current students? Stay true to yourself, seize opportunities that spark joy, and never hesitate to ask for help. To alumnae and alumni, Sara offers a rallying call to contribute their expertise, share their stories, and embrace change while staying connected to the school’s core mission.

 

As Sara continues to lead with authenticity and passion, she exemplifies the transformative power of an Albany Academy education—building bridges between history and progress while inspiring future generations.