Winter Park Library to Honor Sprinkel ’80MAT at 2026 Gala

Sarah Sprinkel ’80MAT, a former Rollins master of arts in teaching student, school administrator, and three-term city commissioner, played a pivotal role in the development of the Winter Park Library’s new state-of-the-art campus. Her vision for public access, family-centered leadership, and lifelong learning has helped shape Winter Park into the vibrant, inclusive community it is today.

“Sarah’s commitment to families, to learning, and to the future of Winter Park is unmistakable,” says Melissa Schneider, Winter Park Library executive director. “Her impact on this community will be felt for generations, and this award is one small way to celebrate her legacy.”

Sprinkel will be recognized on stage during the evening’s festivities, which include live music, themed entertainment, and a spirited silent auction, all in support of the library’s mission.

“If I’m remembered for one thing, I hope it’s for championing families,” says Sprinkel. “Whether it was city infrastructure or library programs like Summer Camp at Home, I always tried to be the voice asking, ‘How does this serve the family?’ Winter Park is, at its heart, a community of families, and that’s who I’ve fought for.”

Now in its 140th year, the Winter Park Library continues to serve more than 20,000 active cardholders with over 1,900 annual programs, free technology access, the region’s most-used children’s library, and dynamic collections for all ages. Proceeds from the gala help fund the library’s community programming and educational initiatives.