On Wednesday, October 22nd, Timothy Christian School held our first STEM Scholars luncheon of the 25-26 schoolyear. These luncheons focus on giving current students an opportunity to interact with those who are paving the way in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. At this particular luncheon, our STEM Scholars had the opportunity to hear from TCS alumna, Sara Chipps, class of 1999, a trailblazer in the world of technology. Joining her was Mrs. Wendy Gall, beloved long-time TCS computer teacher, who helped spark curiosity and confidence in countless students who passed through her classroom.
After the luncheon, Sara sat down with senior Lacey King, a current member of the TCS STEM Scholars Program, for an engaging and thoughtful interview about her journey from TCS student to accomplished software engineer, nonprofit founder, and technology leader.
A Community That Encourages and Inspires
Reflecting on her time at Timothy, Sara shared that what she loved most was the encouragement and sense of community that set the school apart:
“I went to public school before TCS, and where I went, it wasn’t cool to do well at school or sports. Here at TCS, everyone was really encouraged to do that, even our peers encouraged us,” she recalled. “People know each other, families know each other, and it seems like people care.”
Sara fondly remembered Spirit Week and Riot Night, especially the “refrigerator box race” in the gym which she described as one of her favorite TCS memories.
She also explained why it was important for her to attend TCS:
“I think I wouldn’t be a programmer, if I didn’t attend TCS. It allowed me to find out what I wanted to do with my life, meet Mrs. Gall, and it was really neat to be part of a small class where you knew everyone you went to school with.”
Faith, Learning, and Preparation for the Future
When asked how faith and learning were integrated at TCS, Sara noted how classes were consistently taught from a biblical perspective. She also credited her time at TCS with preparing her well for college and beyond:
“I learned to write essays! I remember my teacher saying a five-page essay is nothing when it comes to college and it’s true. I think TCS did a lot to prep me for college.”
A Career of Learning, Leading, and Giving Back
Since graduating from Timothy, Sara has built an impressive career in technology. She’s worked as an engineering leader at LinkedIn, co-founded a nonprofit supporting women and girls in tech called “Girl Develop It,” and has led teams of engineers across major organizations.
“The thing I like about my career the most is that I’m always learning,” she said. “You never stop learning, ever, and I really like that part.”
Among her proudest accomplishments, Sara highlighted founding a nonprofit that continues to thrive independently. She shared that it is neat to see something she started, continue to grow and help people, even when she stepped away.
Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Others
Sara also spoke candidly about some of the challenges she has faced as a woman in a male-dominated field:
“Often, I was the only person like me in the room. It can be daunting, but learning to communicate confidently and stay comfortable in those situations has been a big part of my growth.”
Her openness and encouragement deeply resonated with the students, especially those aspiring to pursue STEM fields themselves. Senior interviewer Lacey King shared afterward,
“This was probably my favorite STEM lunch ever!”
We are grateful to Sara Chipps and Mrs. Wendy Gall for investing in the next generation of Christian innovators and leaders, especially the girls who will follow in their footsteps. Their stories are a powerful reminder that from the classrooms of TCS to the global tech world, God is using our alumni to make a difference.