About Sarah Polak:
I grew up in Exeter, Nebraska, which is roughly 60 miles west of Lincoln. After high school, I attended Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO, earning a bachelor’s degree in History. From there, I attended UNL, graduating with an MA from the Museum Studies program. My career has been museum administration. I spent four years as Director of the Plainsman Museum in Aurora, NE, then thirteen years at Chadron State College, working as Director of the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center before joining UNL.
What is your position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
Extension assistant, but am more commonly referred to as experience coordinator at Raising Nebraska.
What drew you to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
As a UNL graduate, this position was a way to reconnect with the University. The opportunity to work at a vibrant facility where I can share my love of Nebraska and dream big is a huge gift.
What aspect of working in an educational setting do you enjoy the most?
I love working with people who are passionate about what they do and want to share that passion with others. I also love that life-long learning is the rule, not the exception.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
My greatest professional achievement to date is working at the Louvre Museum in Paris.
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
In 2013, I completed the Bataan Memorial Death March at the White Sands Missile Range in White Sands, New Mexico. The 14.2 mile course honors the military service members who defended the Philippine Islands during World War II.
What is your life like outside of work?
Outside of work, my life is pretty quiet, but still seems busy and full of adventures. I live with my boyfriend, who has two cats that I am horribly allergic to but love anyway – and won’t leave me alone. We enjoy riding on the motorcycle when we get the chance, hopefully more this year than last year. I am amateur crafter, attempting to work in textiles; a Corvair enthusiast, and gargoyle collector.