Amber Shirk recognized as one of Tacoma’s top volunteers

Alum Amber (Monson) Shirk has always been involved in her community, but her engagement has only deepened since graduating from the M.A in Policy Studies (MAPS) program in 2017. This June, Shirk will receive a City of Destiny Award from Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards and the City Council for her contributions to the city’s economic development. Shirk is Digital Marketing Chair for Tacoma Waterfront Association, Event Coordinator for Friends of the Foss’s annual Free Summer Concert Festival Series, and was recently voted in as Chairwoman for New Tacoma Neighborhood Council. She is also a board member with the Community Council of Tacoma.

“I have had many awesome experiences since leaving UW,” says Shirk. “After obtaining my masters, I went out in my community and started volunteering. It has brought me great joy and increased my network immensely.”

This month, Shirk begins a new position as Community and Outreach Coordinator for CHOICE Regional Health Network where she will build, foster, and deepen relationships with community members, community organizations, and stakeholder agencies. Shirk is thrilled with the direction her career is taking. “None of these things would have been possible had I not found my passion for the community during my graduate program. My time in MAPS program opened doors and propelled me to be an active volunteer in Tacoma.”