Hi, I’m Sarah.

I am a community-driven developer, researcher, and consultant. 

I’ve been developing things my whole life. Maybe I got it from my dad, who modeled entrepreneurship by opening his own tool and die shop at the age of 30. Or maybe it was from my mom, who showed me determination by going back to school for her Masters at the age of 50. Or maybe it is from my stepdad, who demonstrates creativity and patience by tending to a large garden like it is his child. I am a product of their work ethic, intelligence and resilience. 

Many of us are developers, in the same way that our families are. 

I believe that development is not exclusively reserved for the important, rich, or well-connected people. It is about taking something - a garden, a home, a business, an idea - and working at making it reach its full potential. So this is a place for development in all its forms.

I’ve helped to develop things in downtown Windsor, ON, alongside many other residents who caught a vision and wanted to better their neighbourhood. Then, it happened to be gardens, art programs, and resident-led projects to improve safety and physical appearance. Now, it is houses, buildings, and vacant lots … As well as ideas and optimism that our neighbourhoods can reach their full potential.

And I want to help you develop yours.

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Photo courtesy of Emma Davidson Photography

A little more about me

The current hats I wear …

PhD Student (2020- Present)

University of Toronto
Geography & Planning

See Profile

Developer (2020-Present)

Tiny Home
ADUSearch

See Projects

School Board Trustee (2018-Present)

Greater Essex County District School Board
Wards 3, 4 & 10

See Bio & 2022 Campaign

 

The past hats I’ve worn …

Community Development Coordinator (2015-2020)

Downtown Windsor - DWCC
Engagement & Advocacy

See More

M.A. & Graduate Research (2013-2020)

University of Windsor
Political Science

See Example

Mentorship & Learning Program (2012-2017)

University of Windsor
Mentor & Research

See Work

Other fun hats I put on …

Parent

Harvest Elizabeth Cipkar
Beautiful, exuberant 7 year old

See Hashtag

Avid Urbanist

Proud Downtown Windsor Resident
Thinker & Explorer

See Advocacy

Amateur Gardener

Community Gardens
Monarch Waystation

See Projects