Sarah Lux, 32

Occupation: Public Information Officer and Crisis Communications Leader, Lake County Board of County Commissioners

What I do: I manage the communications for the entire county, including messaging from all our departments, including Fire Rescue, Emergency Management and Public Works. I also oversee the county’s many social media pages, and interact with and assist journalists, plan events and create print material.

How I got here: My first communications job was in 2012 as a marketing coordinator for private higher education. While I have a master’s in public relations, my bachelor’s in anthropology piques people’s interest. I chose it specifically to understand audience diversity before I learned generalized communications strategies. Now I feel like I can communicate more effectively as I better understand differences in cultures, beliefs and needs.

Notable Achievement: Getting my master’s degree.

I’m passionate about: Continuing to help others through the most challenging situations they have likely faced. 

Words of Wisdom: Don’t stop learning! Even as you grow and are recognized for your leadership, once you have the confidence and ability you can make teaching others a priority and mentor up-and-coming professionals.

Outside the office: I read books, play with my dogs and search for good food with my husband. 

Life after 40: I plan to stay focused on helping communities with inclusive, easy-to-understand communications. I hope, at that point, I can inspire and mentor young PIOs entering the field.