AKELA WOODARD-MARDIS
Houston,TX
Summary
Community Engagement and Public Affairs professional with proven experience leading outreach initiatives, building strategic partnerships, and advancing public-facing programs. Demonstrated ability to manage cross-sector collaborations, analyze community needs, and implement engagement strategies that increase access, trust, and participation. Strong leadership background supported by advanced education in juvenile justice, human resources, and public policy.
Overview
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1
Certification
Work History
Community Outreach Coordinator
Fort Bend County
- Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of countywide outreach initiatives supporting public programs.
- Build and sustain partnerships with residents, community organizations, and external stakeholders.
- Conduct research and data analysis to inform outreach strategies and improve program effectiveness.
- Manage outreach data, reporting, and documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Serve as a liaison between departments and the public to promote transparency and trust.
Administrative Associate to the Dean
Prairie View A&M University
- Provided senior-level administrative and operational support to academic leadership.
- Coordinated leave and workforce reporting for accrediting and regulatory agencies.
- Supervised administrative staff and student workers to maintain efficient operations.
- Supported compliance, reporting, and internal communication initiatives.
- College of Nursing
Administrative Assistant
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center
- Coordinated scheduling and administrative support in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
- Drafted professional correspondence and maintained organized records.
- Ensured accurate documentation and adherence to organizational policies.
Education
Master of Science - Juvenile Justice
Prairie View A&M University
Master of Legal Studies -
Texas A&M University School of Law
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Prairie View A&M University
Skills
- Community & Stakeholder Engagement
- Public Affairs & Communication
- Program Development & Coordination
- Strategic Planning
- Data Analysis & Reporting
- Event Planning & Outreach
- Team Leadership & Supervision
- Policy & Compliance
- Microsoft Office Suite
Certification
- Certified Mediator
- Human Resources, Employment Law, Policy & Management
- Notary Public – State of Texas
- Property Tax Professional (Certified)
Accomplishments
- Awarded a Certificate of Recognition for Community Service by the Texas House of Representatives, presented by State Representative Ron Reynolds.
- Earned multiple advanced degrees, including a Master’s in Juvenile Justice and a Master’s in Legal Studies, demonstrating strong subject-matter expertise in justice systems and legal frameworks.
- Oversee and manage Fort Bend County’s Youth Employment Program, supervising 20 interns (ages 16–21) and coordinating professional development and workplace readiness activities.
- Successfully designed and implemented structured internship programming combining administrative work with career exploration and professional skill-building.
- Recognized as a Notable Graduate by Prairie View A&M University upon completion of a master’s degree.
- Certified Texas Mediator and Notary Public, providing conflict resolution services and facilitating legal and administrative processes.
- Founded ANM Mediation Services, delivering alternative dispute resolution services under the mission “Resolving Conflicts, Restoring Peace.”
Affiliations
- Member, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
- Certified Texas Mediator
- Notary Public – Texas
- Community Outreach & Youth Development Advocate
- Prairie View A&M University Alumna
Timeline
Master of Science - Juvenile Justice
Prairie View A&M University
Master of Legal Studies -
Texas A&M University School of Law
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Prairie View A&M University
Community Outreach Coordinator
Fort Bend County
Administrative Associate to the Dean
Prairie View A&M University
Administrative Assistant
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center