Dr. Cooper is the associate director for evaluation services at the Community Epidemiology and Program Evaluation Group (CEPEG) and a research associate in the Department of Community and Behavioral Health. With 20 years of experience in both quantitative analysis and mixed methods, Sara brings a comprehensive array of skills and experience in evaluation best practices, as well as innovative, theory-based evaluation strategies for programs, policies, and community initiatives. Since joining CEPEG in 2012, she has led evaluations of pilot and proof-of-concept initiatives in partnership with community-based health organizations; studied program development and implementation in hospital, clinic and non-traditional settings; conducted media impact assessments for innovative digital health interventions and education campaigns; and worked with local municipalities to measure the impact of seminal policy initiatives.

Currently, Sara oversees evaluation projects associated with CEPEG’s work as the technical assistance provider and program evaluation center for Colorado’s statewide tobacco control program. In addition to tobacco cessation, Sara’s research interests include maternal and child health, and injury epidemiology and violence prevention. She earned her doctorate in health and behavioral science at University of Colorado Denver, and her MSPH from University of Colorado Health Sciences Center.