MADISON, Wis. – Sara Sahli was recognized as the country’s top government relations professional by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in honor of her exceptional work advocating for cancer-fighting public policies.
ACS CAN presents the award to a staff person who has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence in the areas of advocacy and public policy.
“Sahli has demonstrated invaluable leadership in Wisconsin, elevating strategic advocacy efforts across the state,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “She has deepened her role as a trusted voice for those affected by cancer, ensuring their experiences shape impactful public policy solutions. Her leadership not only advances our campaigns but also inspires everyone who has the chance to work alongside her.”
Sahli is ACS CAN’s Government Relations Director in Wisconsin. Between her grassroots and government relations advocacy, she has served the state for over 20 years.
Sahli has established key relationships with legislators and their staff and other elected officials, including the governor’s office, meeting with state agency heads, connecting with important partners from both industry and nonprofit organizations, and building coalitions. Under Sahli’s leadership, the 2025 – 2026 state legislative session included historic victories for cancer patients, survivors, and those at risk for cancer across the state. These wins included passage of Gail’s Law, eliminating financial barriers to medically necessary follow-up breast imaging and expanding access to earlier breast cancer detection. Wisconsin became the 49th state to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months, ensuring mothers have access to critical health care during their first year after birth.
The award was presented on Sept. 13 as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. Over 750 cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones met with their elected officials and urged them to prioritize cancer research and prevention programs, along with other proven cancer-fighting policies, highlighting the real-life impact these investments have on patients, families and communities nationwide.
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About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.