The Chamber is delighted to introduce a fresh spotlight series that focuses on showcasing the accomplishments, narratives, and significant contributions of our members to the community. We trust that the stories shared will inspire and captivate you, serving as testimonials to the vitality of the Frederick County business and nonprofit community.
A conversation with Dr. Eric Louers-Phillips, Associate Superintendent of Public Affairs, Frederick County Public Schools
Chamber Committee(s) you Volunteer on:
Leadership Frederick County Council
How long have you been a member of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce?
Via my employment at FCPS I’ve been a member since 2003. I’ve served on the LFC Council since summer of 2023
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Spend my spare time hiking, camping, attending various visual & performing arts productions, and eating great food.
I’m actively involved in my faith based community as a Bible teacher. I also serve as a member of the United Way of Frederick County Board.
Started as an educator in 1998. I’ve served as a 5-8 grade teacher (Montgomery & Frederick Counties); assistant principal; elementary social studies curriculum specialist; and supervisor of equity & achievement. I currently serve as the Associate Superintendent of Public Affairs for Frederick County Public Schools. I support systemic and crisis communications, audio visual production, community & stakeholder engagement and partnerships, multi-media graphic arts, and communications. I also serve as the spokesperson for the school system.
Please share what motivated you to become a volunteer for the Chamber of Commerce. What inspired you to get involved?
I was inspired by various Chamber members that I’ve had the opportunity to interact with professionally. Seeing their commitment to supporting various organizations and businesses in the community encouraged me to offer support through my work as an employee in our county.
Volunteering often provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. In what ways has your experience as a Chamber volunteer helped you develop new skills, expand your knowledge or further your career?
Volunteering has helped to broaden my understanding of the various services and individuals within our community ready to support opportunities and growth across the county. I’ve also benefited by working with and learning from other leaders in the Chamber.
How has your volunteer experience enriched your connection to the local business community?
I’ve been able to learn about the successes, challenges and needs of local businesses. Interacting with business owners has increased my appreciation for the role they play in contributing not only to economic growth in our community but also to the various services available to members of the county.
Reflecting on your volunteer activities, what has been the most rewarding experience or achievement during your time with the Chamber? Can you share a specific moment that stands out to you?
Participating in Leadership Frederick County (LFC) was the most rewarding. It’s challenging to pick one stand out moment; the overall experience allowed me to pull off my blinders and better see and understand how inter-connected we are as a county. LFC provides participants an opportunity to learn about the various pieces (e.g. non-profit, the arts, safety & emergency management, economics, government, history, education, etc) that make our county whole.
Any advice for people who are thinking of getting more involved with the Chamber?
Reach out to a Chamber member and ask them about their experience with the Chamber.
Favorite quote or advice that are inspired or live by:
“Be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.” These are not my words but the advice reminds me of the importance of listening to understand so that one is able to best support the needs of others.
Frederick Chamber Insights is a news outlet of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. For more information about membership, programs and initiatives, please visit our website.