Sarah J. Kopac

Position: Executive Director

Sarah J. Kopac serves as the Executive Director of the Jack McGovern Coats’ Disease Foundation, where she has played a vital role since 2017. Previously serving as Community Engagement Manager, Sarah led the Foundation’s communications and outreach strategies to raise awareness of Coats’ Disease, expand fundraising initiatives, and strengthen connections among patients, families, researchers, and medical professionals worldwide. Her leadership in digital communications, donor stewardship, and community engagement has been instrumental in advancing the Foundation’s mission and impact.

With more than two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, communications, and marketing, Sarah brings both strategic vision and hands-on expertise to this position. Prior to joining the Foundation, she served as Executive Director of the Performing Arts School of Central Pennsylvania, where she oversaw all aspects of organizational management, including fundraising, financial stewardship, board relations, and community outreach. She also held senior communications and marketing roles with the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet and worked extensively as a freelance writer, graphic designer, and communications consultant, supporting organizations across education, healthcare, hospitality, and the arts.

Sarah earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communications from The Pennsylvania State University and began her career in public relations, writing, and design. Over the years, she has developed deep expertise in nonprofit management, fundraising campaigns, digital engagement, and storytelling that inspires action.

As Executive Director, Sarah is committed to leading the Jack McGovern Coats’ Disease Foundation into its next chapter of growth—strengthening partnerships, advancing research, and ensuring that every family affected by Coats’ Disease has access to support, resources, and hope.

Sarah lives in State College, PA with her husband and two daughters.

FAQ

At the Jack McGovern Coats’ Disease Foundation, we are often contacted by anxious parents or patients who are seeking information after receiving a diagnosis of Coats’ Disease. The questions below are provided as a resource to assist you as you and your doctor decide the best approach for treatment. These questions do not constitute any form of medical advice or diagnosis. Each patient is unique. An experienced retinal specialist who has examined the patient is the best source of information for diagnosis and treatment. We always recommend getting a second opinion.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor (Download PDF)

  • Ahead of any treatments or procedures, it is important to ask yourself and the doctor the following questions:

    • How do you know that this is Coats’ Disease?

    • Has your doctor treated other patients with Coats’ Disease?

    • Have you sought a second opinion? If not, please consult our Doctor Directory for knowledgeable doctors in your area.

    • What Stage of Coats’ Disease is he/she in?

    • Will his/her vision get worse over time?

    • Will the eye have pain?

    • Will his/her eye start to turn out? Is muscle corrective surgery an option?

    • Are cataracts likely?

    • How likely is glaucoma? (due to retinal detachment)

    • Is there calcification?

    • What is the anticipated disease progression?

    • Is there a thorough vision exam available?

    • Where is the vision affected? (central/peripheral/distance)

    • Does he/she have depth perception? (3D visibility)

    • What about the non-Coats’ eye?

    • To what extent is his/her vision affected?

    • Will we be able to use this as a baseline to measure progress/decline?

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