Sarah Zetterli serves as Director of Aspen Ideas: Economy, a premier public forum of the Aspen Institute that convenes leaders from business, government, philanthropy, academia, media, and entrepreneurship to explore the forces shaping the future of our economy and human flourishing.
Sarah is a leader and convener with more than 20 years of experience at the intersection of finance, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity. Throughout her career, she has built partnerships across sectors, strengthened organizations, and advanced initiatives that expand opportunity and foster inclusive economic growth. Before joining the Aspen Institute in 2019, Sarah held leadership positions in banking, social enterprise, and nonprofit organizations across the United States, Asia, and Africa, gaining firsthand experience with the opportunities and challenges facing communities, entrepreneurs, and financial systems around the world.
Sarah earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Anthropology from Harvard University and a Master of Science in Financial Management from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. Her interdisciplinary background and international career have shaped her enduring interest in how communities build opportunity, resilience, and prosperity.
Known for her collaborative leadership style, Sarah has extensive experience managing complex partnerships involving foundations, corporations, nonprofit organizations, financial institutions, and public-sector leaders. She is passionate about creating spaces where diverse perspectives engage in meaningful dialogue and where ideas lead to practical action. At the Aspen Institute, she has been recognized with the 2022 Staff Award for Equity & Inclusion and the 2025 Collaboration Catalyst Award.
After living and working across three continents, Sarah now lives in Bethesda, Maryland, with her husband and two sons. Her unique last name, Zetterli, combines Zetter, from her Swedish husband, and Li, reflecting her own Chinese roots.
