Serena Gruia is an accomplished civic engagement practitioner with extensive experience in program development and community-centered design. Currently serving as the Community Engagement Coordinator for Albemarle County, Virginia, Serena leads initiatives that foster inclusive public participation and strengthen local democracy.

Serena has successfully designed and managed high-profile events, developed the innovative Engage Albemarle online platform, and co-designed a $450,000 grant allocation project partnering with community-based organizations on resilience initiatives. Her work establishing the Community Engagement Field Office earned the 2023 NACo and VACo Achievement Awards.

With a passion for creating meaningful dialogue, Serena has produced and hosted the ""Let's Talk Albemarle"" podcast, developed Community Conversation Kits to expand civic participation, and regularly hosts ""How to Get Engaged"" pop-up events. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Affairs from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, bringing a strategic and detail-oriented approach to program management and stakeholder collaboration.

Serena's goal is to continue driving collaborative efforts that address complex societal challenges and promote civic engagement. She strives to be inclusive, generous, curious, and responsive to community needs with every project she is a part of.

Sidenote: She is proud of her work with the ELA program over the past several years!