The Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center (ChesMRC) has appointed three new members to its Board of Directors: William Akridge, Dr. Stuart Bounds and John Ford.

William Akridge is an Eastern Shore native and a lifelong educator with a passion for helping others in the community and improving public education; he is founder of the Maryland Eastern Shore Charter School Alliance.

Dr. Bounds served as fourth President of Chesapeake College, retiring after nearly 25 years and earning the title of President Emeritus. In addition to serving on the ChesMRC Board, Bounds is a member of the Executive Committee of Shore Regional Health, serving on their board and the boards of Mid-Shore Community Foundation and the Country School.

John Ford presently serves as President of the Easton Town Council and Facilities Manager for the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels. Ford’s volunteerism is extensive, serving as President of the Historic Cemeteries of Easton and assisting with Talbot Hospice, First Night Talbot, Waterfowl Festival and the Plein Air Easton Art Festival.

Said Kat Stork, President of the ChesMRC Board, “All three men are long-time residents of the Eastern Shore and extremely active and dedicated members of our community. Their experience and knowledge of the locality are integral to furthering the ChesMRC’s communication and outreach mission, and we are excited to bring their expertise to our organization.”