Meet MAPE's New Human Resources Director, Shelly Chamberlain

MAPE's new Human Resources Director, Shelly Chamberlain, may have been destined to work for a labor union. She comes from a union family, got her start canvassing for social justice and health care causes, and has spent her career advocating for organizations and communities that make a difference.

Before joining MAPE three months ago, Chamberlain worked for The Link, a youth services organization that helps young people and families overcome the impacts of poverty and social injustice. The youth- and adult-led organization supports young people experiencing crises, including homelessness, sex trafficking and involvement with the justice system.

Prior to that, she spent nearly two decades with the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, one of the largest state nonprofit associations in the country.

Chamberlain said she was drawn to MAPE because of its commitment to addressing the economic pressures facing workers and defending democracy and worker rights.

"I believe in the power of people coming together and fighting for what's right," she said. "Issues like fair pay and workplace protections are important to me."

Since arriving at MAPE, Chamberlain has been impressed by the organization's energy and engagement. "Members, staff and the Board are all highly engaged," she said. "There is a lot of collaboration and a strong commitment to working together."

Chamberlain grew up in Arden Hills, where her father was a high school chemistry teacher, and her mother was a nurse. She graduated from Mounds View High School and earned a degree in political science from the University of Minnesota.

She and her husband, Greg, live in Arden Hills with their daughters, Finley and Teagan, and their two cats. Their oldest daughter, Finley, will be a sophomore at Irondale High School and Teagan will be a seventh grader at Highview Middle School this fall.

Away from work, Chamberlain enjoys spending time outdoors, walking, gardening, reading and traveling.

"I'm always planning a trip," she said with a smile.

Earlier in her life, she performed with an East Indian dance company, which gave her the opportunity to travel to Russia, India, Bali and Taiwan. Of all the places she has visited, Vietnam remains her favorite destination.

Most recently, she and her family traveled to Portland, Oregon, visited Mount Rainier and stayed on Coronado Naval Base during a trip to the San Diego area.

The family also shares a passion for soccer.

"My sister lives in Manchester, England, and we've visited several times," Chamberlain said. "We're big soccer fans and would love to attend a championship league match in England someday."

Both of her daughters play soccer, and Finley plays for Irondale High School and Minnesota Rush. The family also enjoys attending Minnesota Aurora matches together.