Senior Spotlight: Sarah Kingsford ’25

With a fierce commitment to the environment and a voice that resonates both on stage and in advocacy, Sarah Kingsford ’25 is redefining what it means to be a Changemaker. Known for her intelligence, grace and fierce defense of the environment, Sarah’s activism shines through both her leadership and her music.

Sarah’s environmental advocacy began early. “My mom helped me request pet goods for the SPCA instead of birthday gifts,” Sarah recalls. “In seeing that I could create a better life for a dog or cat, I realized that I had more power in changing things than I had initially believed.” That early spark quickly caught on and by Middle School she had shifted her focus to climate justice — learning from and with her father and members of the Sierra Club about global environmental issues, and taking local action to reduce single-use plastics and promote sustainable practices.

She hasn’t just talked the talk. As a leader in the School’s Environmental Club, Sarah has worked to educate others, organize cleanups and led school recycling efforts. She also wrote regularly on climate issues as a contributor and designer for The Chronicle, the Upper School newspaper, earning recognition from the National Scholastic Press Association.

As President of Mouse Interns at The Kind Mouse, a local food bank, she coordinated donations, events and teams of teen volunteers. Sarah's efforts were honored last year with the Anne Frank Humanitarian Award. “Her impressive contributions to The Kind Mouse, USF Pediatrics and the Seabird Sanctuary showcase her unwavering commitment to creating positive change,” said Dean Stacy Alexander. “She embodies the spirit of selfless service.”

Academically, Sarah has soared. By graduation she will have completed one of the most demanding curriculums Shorecrest has to offer with 10 APs and 13 Honors courses, excelling particularly in science and English—and earning accolades from National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Tri-M, and other Honor Societies.

And then there’s music. As the vocalist in the Upper School rock band, very real, Sarah has brought both discipline and soul to the stage. She wrote and released nine original songs, many focused on mental health and environmental awareness.

“Though there was an inherent stress in organizing three opinionated high school boys,” she said with a laugh, “the band became a haven. I uncovered myself through my voice, and in doing so, I felt empowered.”

Sarah also performed in Shorecrest theatre productions like Sweeney Todd and Mamma Mia! Off stage she expresses herself through jewelry-making, natural fragrance design, and hands-on volunteering.

Sarah’s future is bright. She plans to pursue a doctorate and a career as a scientific researcher. She has been interning with the University of South Florida’s Pediatrics Department since ninth grade, contributing to ongoing research—and may soon be published as a co-author on the resulting scientific paper.

“Sarah’s extensive research into global issues and potential solutions reflects her desire to be an agent of change,” said Meghan Schneider, Senior Associate Director of College Counseling and Upper School Diversity Coordinator. “She acts with compassion and empathy for all beings near and far.”

Sarah reminds us that real change starts with one voice and the courage to keep showing up. She will help shape the future at Colorado State University in the fall.