Sarah Garibova

About Sarah Garibova

With a PhD in history and a strong foundation in linguistics and international studies, I bring a distinctive mix of analytical rigor and relational insight to my leadership in higher education operations.As a systems thinker, I turn strategic vision into scalable workflows that enhance service delivery. I excel at creating clarity from complexity—whether designing systems to improve cross-functional collaboration, developing policies and documentation, or reimagining service models. My portfolio spans budget management, fundraising, space planning, and systems design and administration. Drawing on my multilingual and international research experience, I navigate logistical challenges with flexibility and engage diverse stakeholders with ease.My background in teaching and mentorship deeply shapes my leadership philosophy: I cultivate a strengths-based culture that values initiative and diverse perspectives. I believe the best solutions emerge when people feel empowered to contribute and innovate.Outside of work, I’m usually knitting, learning a new language, or enjoying the wonders of New England. Music and dance are lifelong passions, and I’m a proud member of a local Yiddish chorus.

Experience

1. Director of Operations

   Boston University Center For Career Development

   Nov 2025 — Present

   Lead operational strategy and infrastructure for Boston University\'s Career Development Center, ensuring seamless delivery of career education and support for all students and alumni. Oversee budget planning, technology platforms, and cross-functional projects, designing systems and processes that facilitate seamless service delivery. Design and launch BU\'s Career Champions program, galvanizing faculty and staff engagement in career education by building awareness of resources and confidence in fielding career conversations with students.Member of the Career Strategy Working Group (2025-Present).

Education

• Saint Petersburg State University

  Russian

• University of Michigan

  PhD, History

  2017

• Nassau Community College

  General Studies

• Middlebury College

  Hebrew

• University of Washington

  BA, International Studies: Europe (REECAS concentration) & Russian Language and Literature

• Uriel Weinreich Program in Yiddish Language, Literature, and Culture

  Yiddish

Skills

• Coaching & Mentoring
• First Generation Students
• Academic Advising
• Independent Thinking
• International Students
• University Teaching
• Public Speaking
• Teacher Training
• Student Programming
• Editing
• Nonprofits
• Analytical Skills
• Data Analysis
• Student Development
• Mentoring
• International Travel
• Pedagogy
• Training Facilitation
• Non-Traditional Students
• Writing
• Data Management
• International Relations
• Qualitative Research
• Critical Thinking
• Interpersonal Communication
• Academic Writing
• College Funding Strategies
• Facilitation
• Discussion Facilitation
• Cross-Cultural Communication Skills
• Multi-Cultural Team Leadership
• Archival Research
• Fellowships
• Organization Skills
• Higher Education
• Student-Centered Learning
• Intergroup Relations
• Teaching
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration
• Community Colleges