Outstanding Alum: Impact on Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement
Billie C. Scruse has been the executive director at Hartford Food System, Inc. (HFS) for more than three years. She brings more than 25 years of exemplary and wide-ranging experience in communications, education, broadcast media, strategic planning, and organizational development to HFS, which is dedicated to finding long-term solutions for access to affordable and healthy food in Hartford.
In her current role, Scruse works hard to engage as many residents and community stakeholders as possible in the HFS mission, and leads projects to build new programs, solicit new investors, and increase the donor base.
In her previous positions, Scruse used her expansive skills for many landmark institutions, including the YMCA of Greater Hartford, where she directed youth, college success, and career development programs (YAchievers). She also worked for the City of Hartford, where she served as a press secretary for the mayor's office. For more than a decade, she was the communications officer for the Connecticut Department of Social Services and the Connecticut Department of Public Health.
Prior to receiving her Master of Public Administration from UHart, Scruse earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Southern Connecticut State University.
A Hartford native and resident of West Hartford, Scruse has always been active in her community and her church. She is a 35-year member and former executive officer of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Epsilon Omicron Omega Chapter) and vice president of The Links, Incorporated (Greater Hartford Chapter). In addition to her work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends.