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| Sarah Baker | |
Sarah Baker has been elected executive director of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, succeeding SCBWI co-founder Lin Oliver, who retired at the end of January. Baker previously was associate executive director and has worked for the organization since 2011.
"Alongside our members, I hope to make improvements that are rooted in community feedback and good process so that our changes are lasting and meaningful," Baker said. "The world and our industry are changing quickly, and I promise, both as SCBWI's executive director and as a children's book creator myself, to lead a team that is always growing and learning, and searching for new ways to elevate the art and reach of children's literature."
In the wake of the change in leadership, SCBWI is also refocusing its staff through promotions and new responsibilities.
Baker noted that in a letter to the membership last week, "I listed empowering staff, improving customer service, streamlining processes, and leveraging strategic partnerships amongst my objectives. I'm thrilled to announce the promotions of five of our staff members in accordance with this objective. Kim Turrisi, Tammy Brown, Sarah Diamond, Avery Silverberg and Laurie Miller have taken on new and crucial responsibilities and have done so with passion and energy, inspired by the mission of SCBWI and the vibrant community we work for. As I ask more of them, I do so with confidence that they will exceed expectations. I'm so excited for all that our tight-knit team can accomplish together on behalf of the children's book community."
Turrisi is now director, programming and content; Brown is director, marketing and communication strategy; Diamond is senior manager of awards and publications; Silverberg is social media manager; and Miller is manager, events and special projects. In addition, Chelsea Hall has been hired as administrative assistant. Joshua Smith, director of web development, database manager, and Brandon Clarke, logistics coordinator, continue in their current roles.