Sarah Blanford is a seasoned international development leader with over 25 years of expertise in project management, stakeholder engagement, and strategic direction. As Program Director at the U.S. Energy Association (USEA), she leads high-impact, multimillion-dollar energy initiatives that advance economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability in emerging markets, particularly in South Asia, as well as parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. Sarah is known for her excellence in program design, donor engagement, and collaborative leadership across public and private energy sectors.

At USEA, she has guided complex portfolios focused on regional energy cooperation, utility reform, renewable integration, and inclusive energy policies. Her work has included launching new regional platforms, building global partnerships, and delivering technical assistance and training to energy professionals across more than 25 countries.

Sarah holds a Master of Public Administration and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Wooster. She is a committed mentor and active member of the energy and environmental community, including New England Women in Energy and the Environment (NEWIEE) and Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE).