Amber Shrodes has joined the Harford County Public Library as its new director of philanthropy and community engagement.
Shrodes is responsible for cultivating strategic partnerships; implementing fundraising and development strategies to support programs, services and capital initiatives; providing advocacy and support for the Library’s Foundation Board; and promoting awareness of the library’s vast collection of resources and services.
Shrodes served as the library’s foundation director from 2011 to 2014. In December 2014, she was appointed director of community services for Harford County Government by the Glassman administration. She was reappointed as deputy director of community services by the Cassilly administration.
In her roles with county government, Shrodes strengthened communities, directed operations and strategic planning to meet community needs and created innovative programs to support at-risk populations. During her tenure, the National Association of Counties recognized Community Services 10 times for programs and best practices that raised awareness about addiction; supported youth, seniors and individuals of differing abilities; and provided resources for individuals who have been involved with the criminal justice system.
Under her direction, Harford County Community Services introduced numerous new programs including the Children, Youth and Family Resource Festival, Second Chance Job and Resource Fair, Harford County Day of Service Program, Pledge Program, Night of Conversation, Socktober, Harford County Veterans Collaborative, the Wheelchair Costume Workshop and the Sensory Trail at Shucks Road Park.
ABOUT AMBER SHRODES
Resides in:
White Hall (Harford County)
Education:
Bachelor of Science in marketing, University of Maryland, College Park
If you had not chosen your current profession, what profession would you choose and why?
If I didn’t work at the library, I would be a Walt Disney Imagineer. The Imagineers, the research and development team responsible for the design of Walt Disney World theme parks, resorts and cruise ships, are renowned for their innovation and creativity. I love the opportunity to create magical experiences. When people visit the library, they also want to be transported to a different world, to explore new ideas and immerse themselves in adventure.
Recent vacation:
My 13-year-old daughter, Maddie, and I took a “run-cation” in Florida in April completing a 5K, 10K and 10 miler in one weekend.
When I want to relax, … :
I love to read and hike with my Australian shepherd, Scout.
Favorite books:
I am an avid reader with eclectic tastes in genres. Recently I’ve enjoyed reading works by two up-and-coming local authors – “Serendipity by the Sea,” by Jennifer Vido and “Pedaling West,” by E.A. Coe.
Favorite quotation:
“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” — Henry Ford
T
Credit:Source link
