Sarah Kneller doesn’t just innovate—she revolutionizes. As the Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer at August Interactive and an Emmy Award-winning former Executive Producer at Valve Software, Sarah has spent over two decades at the forefront of broadcasting and esports entertainment, blending cutting-edge technology with compelling storytelling to create unforgettable experiences for global audiences.
At Valve, Sarah led the charge in developing the world’s first multi-continental, real-time, multi-camera extended reality broadcast for The International – Dota 2 Championships. This groundbreaking achievement not only redefined the viewer experience but also earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Live Esports Coverage. Over her decade-long tenure, Sarah’s strategies elevated the tournament to become the world’s largest annual esports event, growing global viewership to millions and cementing her status as a leader in the industry.
Her accomplishments don’t stop there. Sarah’s work has earned multiple Emmy nominations, Webby Awards for Technical Achievement and VR Innovation, and recognition for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in live broadcasting. She holds patents for Systems and Methods for Incentivizing Content Exploration and innovations in game engines that adapt to players’ moods in real time, showcasing her ability to craft solutions that transform audience engagement and even promote mental well-being.
Now, at August Interactive, Sarah is channeling her creative vision into developing deeply personalized, immersive gaming experiences that foster community and create a positive cultural impact. A passionate advocate for collaboration and innovation, she leads teams that tackle challenges with creativity, purpose, and heart, inspiring the next generation of leaders in tech and entertainment.
Sarah’s commitment to learning is as relentless as her drive to innovate. She holds a Master of Technology in Technology Management from Georgetown University, advanced certification in Artificial Intelligence from MIT Sloan, and a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Communications from Washington State University.
Offstage, Sarah balances her dynamic career with life as a busy mother to Grace (11) and Carter (9). She loves cooking and traveling with her husband, Mike Harris, and embraces the chaos of family life with the same energy she brings to the esports stage. At the Edward R. Murrow Symposium, Sarah will share her insights on building an esports scene, power of creativity, technology, and bold ideas to transform industries and connect communities. Her journey is a testament to the extraordinary things that happen when passion meets purpose.