Taking over the position of executive director of the Children’s Advocacy Center for the 31st Judicial District is Sarah Loud, who moved to McMinnville a year ago.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Loud went to college in Santa Barbara, where she met her husband. Before moving to McMinnville, Loud spent 14 years in San Diego working as a director of advocacy and research for a public sector labor union.

“We moved here to be with my husband’s family and have our kids raised with extended family,” said Loud. “The second I saw the job description I was so excited because I never thought there would be such an opportunity in McMinnville for management of an advocacy.”

As for qualifications, Loud’s experience includes nonprofit management, working with a board of directors, fundraising, human relations, legal writing, and contract negotiations.

“I look forward to being a part of an organization that is so good for the community and using my skillset and education to further such an important cause,” said Loud. “I have two children in the Warren County School System, a kindergartener and first-grader at Hickory Creek, and just being able to do this on behalf of the local children is great.”

When asked about her plans for the Children’s Advocacy Center, Loud said fundraising is one of her major goals to increase revenue in terms of grants and private donations.

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised coming from a big city because a lot of organizations are pretty anonymous and I initially thought I would be educating the public,” said Loud. “I’ve been really impressed with how much the public is already aware of as far as the organization, what it does, and its reputation.”

Loud has been job shadowing current executive director Martha Phillips since Nov. 13 to learn more about the position along with networking with those she’ll be working with closely.

“I hope she continues with the relationships that have been established,” said Phillips. “I also hope she takes the CAC and evolves and continues to grow our prevention and outreach campaign along with our mental health program.”

Loud said she is really happy to be here and hopes to bring a fresh perspective and skillset to the area. Loud’s first official day as executive director is Monday, Dec. 3.