Ford, a Springfield resident, is the founder of Heart2Heartbeat Lactation and Wellness, which is committed to focusing on the communities need for lactation and breastfeeding care, support and education for mothers and families. She also serves as a Training Facilitator for the Children’s Trust Massachusetts. Ford previously worked as a Research Associate Lactation Consultant at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and is very active in the community serving on numerous boards and committees in support of mothers, babies and their families. Ford holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Temple University and is a Certified Lactation Counselor and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant. She is a member of the National Association of Professional and Peer Lactation Supporters of Color (NAPPLSC), Mass Lactation Consultant Association (MLCA), and Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition board of directors.
Mayor Sarno states, “I want to welcome Shenell Ford as the newest member of my staff. She is a very smart, passionate and talented young woman who cares deeply for our Springfield community. I have known Shenell and her two boys, who are the loves of her life, mom Vanessa – the songstress and golden voice of Springfield, and their family for a long time, and I am proud of the work they wholeheartedly do to support and advocate for our Springfield. She will be a tremendous addition to my staff and I know she is excited for this opportunity to serve our residents and business community.”
Mayor Sarno has previously partnered with Shenell and her Heart2Heartbeat Lactation and Wellness organizations over the past few years to help bring awareness and recognize the important of breastfeeding for moms, babies and families. Mayor Sarno has joined with Shenell and her team on the front steps of City Hall every August to increase awareness and to recognize National Breastfeeding Awareness Month in the city of Springfield with a special flag raising ceremony.
Ford stated, “I am truly humbled to serve my Springfield community in this capacity. With a heart full of gratitude, I want to thank Mayor Sarno and his incredible staff for their continued support and confidence in my abilities. I am blessed to begin this next chapter of my journey and look forward to supporting our residents."
Ford will begin her duties on Monday, October 31, 2022.
All members of the mayor’s staff are Springfield residents.
