Sam Salopek was raised in Pittsburgh’s South Hills, and was shaped by the legacy of her late grandmother, a Southside community organizer and longtime Democratic Committeewoman. From her, Sam learned that collective engagement has the power to transform communities and that shared purpose can move institutions toward meaningful change.

In 2009, driven by a call to service, Sam enlisted in the United States Air Force. Her years in uniform strengthened her resolve to confront the inequities faced by women and other marginalized groups as well as her commitment to preserving a healthy and representative democracy. She served eight years with distinction, earning two Achievement Medals and a Commendation Medal, receiving the Below the Zone promotion, and graduating first in her class from the Defense Information School’s Photojournalism Course.

Guided by the findings of the 2019 Pittsburgh Gender Equity Analysis and her experience living abroad during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sam returned home, settling in Green Tree, determined to push for a more just and equitable region. She works as a Communications Manager in the nonprofit sector, supporting programs that help individuals build stability, economic mobility, and long-term independence.

Sam is a passionate community advocate committed to advancing social justice and expanding opportunity. Her work earned her the 2024 AAUW Gateway to Equity Award. She serves on the leadership team of Pittsburgh for CEDAW, where her efforts directly supported the reestablishment of the Pittsburgh Gender Equity Commission. She continues her work in advocating on behalf of countywide gender equity policy.

Sam previously chaired the Social Justice and Anti-Racism Commission at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mt. Lebanon. She supports CeaseFire PA’s gun safety efforts and continues to champion anti-violence legislation. 

Sam is a member of the Green Tree American Legion and the Green Tree Woman’s Civic Club, and currently serves as Vice Chair for Aiken Elementary’s PFO. Additionally, she is the co-founder of Democrats for Green Tree, a community-based, advocacy organization. 

Sam holds a B.A. in Digital Journalism and Media and a Diversity Certificate from Penn State University.

She loves exploring the world with her spouse, two daughters, and their Boston Terrier, Nellie Bly, and watching football and soccer - always cheering on the black and gold.

As a Committee member, Sam looks to bring with her over 10 years of experience in mission-driven communications, community organizing, and political campaign management. 

She looks forward to the work ahead and is committed to building a strong Democratic community that will grow and thrive for generations to come.