| Honored by: | Bradley S. Smith |
| Brick location: | E:2 map |
Was born in June 20, 1961 and grew up in Lima, Peru. Daughter of Rafael Fernandez a contractor in Lima-Peru and Dominga Garcia. She was the fifth of eight children and the oldest of three sisters. In 1985 she graduated from the National University of Engineering (Universidad Nacional de Ingenieria) in Lima Peru with a degree in Sanitary and Environmental Engineering. After that she worked in designing projects as a consulting engineer.
Sara come to the United States on a Fulbrigth Scholarship in 1992 and she obtained a Master of Sciences degree from Iowa State University in Environmental Engineering in May 1995. First woman in her family to speak fluent English and travel outside of Peru. She was an outstanding student and she graduated in first place in her high school class and first place in the Faculty of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering at her college. Sara was also involved in church activities.
She grew up in the Catholic church and was a Confirmation Cathequist in Saint Rose-Maryknoll Church. She was also part of the Pope Guard during his 1987 visit to Lima Peru. She was also very active in sports and practice volley ball with other young people in her home town. Sara’s sense of strength independence and courage along with her joy caring and kindness is an inspiration to me.
2/14/95