Darlene Shuler

Joined The Staff

July 2021

Favorite Thing About ACF

My favorite part of working in the Akron Community Foundation office is having an opportunity to work with a team of people who provide resources that support the needs of the community. In this short time, I have learned so much about nonprofit organizations and philanthropy, and the importance of giving back to the community.  As an educator, I've always had a passion to help and serve others, but being a part of the community foundation provides a different perspective on what it means to support my community. As the partner liaison for Akron Public Schools, I've had the opportunity to meet some amazing nonprofit organizations whose staff selflessly give their time and talent to support our community, including support of the College & Career Academies transformation. I'm so pleased that my work allows me to help these students learn about the important work happening in the community and how they, too, can make a difference.

What She Does

Darlene's role as the partner liaison for Akron Public Schools is funded by Akron Community Foundation. Darlene is responsible for finding and engaging with local nonprofit partners who commit to supporting Akron Public Schools College & Career Academies at the middle school level, through both in- and out-of-school engagement and hands-on learning opportunities. Through these nonprofit partnerships, students will learn about the value of giving back to the community, as well as explore possible career paths in nonprofits.

What She Did Before

Darlene has enjoyed a long career in education, both within Akron Public Schools and as a diversity recruiter for several public and private institutions, where she was responsible for increasing diverse enrollment in select graduate and undergraduate programs. During her years with APS, Darlene has served as the Online K-12 Program Manager, College and Career Services Program Manager, Online Mentor and substitute teacher. Her most recent role before returning to APS was as a corporate diversity recruiter.