Sarah daSilva is the associate director of strategic initiatives at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI). She leads strategic planning and organization-wide projects that support NZCBI’s mission and long-term priorities. She also oversees the Zoo’s human resources, academic appointment and volunteer programs.

Before returning to NZCBI in 2026, daSilva served as a senior advisor at the National Air and Space Museum, advising museum leadership on workforce planning, internal communications and other organizational priorities. She previously served as the museum’s director of visitor experience, leading staff, volunteers and daily visitor operations at both museum locations.

Earlier in her career, daSilva served as NZCBI’s director of animal care operations, overseeing the operational and administrative work that supports the Zoo’s animal care teams. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from Longwood University.