Meet Sawyer

Sawyer has a passion for community development and resilience. Growing up in rural parts of Spartanburg, SC, amidst rapid urbanization, allowed Sawyer to understand the importance of sustainable growth and equitable resource distribution. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Clemson University, Sawyer distinguished himself as the President of Clemson Mappers, fostering leadership and collaboration within the academic community. Their commitment to practical application led them to conduct impactful research with the National Emergency Response GIS Team in Jamaica (NERGIST), where Sawyer gained insights into disaster management and mitigation strategies.

After college, Sawyer worked for FEMA, where he directly engaged with communities in Montana following the Yellowstone Flood of 2022. This hands-on involvement fostered his passion for the intricacies of disaster recovery and community resilience. Currently working as an intern at Gap Strategies, Sawyer contributes to project and community development initiatives, leveraging their expertise in risk mapping and strategic planning, while simultaneously pursuing a Masters in Community and Regional Planning (MSCRP) from UT Austin. Sawyer is committed to honing his skills to effect positive change in urban redevelopment post-disaster, aspiring to create more equitable and resilient communities.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Sawyer finds joy in cooking, biking on the weekends, and fostering meaningful connections with friends and colleagues.