Janel Schermerhorn

Janel Schermerhorn is an MSc student at the University of Edinburgh, a podcast producer, and a dedicated volunteer committed to strengthening communities.

With a professional background spanning business consulting, nonprofit leadership, and program management, Schermerhorn brings a wealth of experience to her work. Passionate about storytelling and advocacy, she actively contributes to initiatives that empower individuals and foster meaningful exchanges.

Professional Background

Janel Schermerhorn has built a diverse career across multiple sectors, balancing leadership, financial oversight, and community engagement. 

Currently, she serves as the Student of the Month Program Lead at the Rotary Club of Redmond, where she liaises with community contacts, conducts student interviews, and organizes award ceremonies to recognize academic and community achievements.

Previously, she held leadership roles in Germany, including Treasurer of Sport Club JFKS E.V. from 2019 to 2021, where she oversaw finances, managed payroll and bookkeeping, and facilitated engagement with families and local clubs. 

As President of the American Women’s Club of Berlin (2017-2019), she played a key role in overseeing club activities, managing finances, and coordinating philanthropic initiatives with local and global organizations.

Before transitioning into nonprofit leadership, Schermerhorn worked as a business consultant under Janel Schermerhorn Consulting in Seattle from 2010 to 2016. In this role, she provided business performance analysis, compliance recommendations, and employee training development to support organizational growth. 

Her earlier career included significant positions such as Senior Manager at Encore Capital Group, Senior Program Manager at Jack in the Box, and Researcher at Pacific Science & Engineering, demonstrating her versatility and expertise in both corporate and nonprofit sectors.

Education

Janel Schermerhorn is currently an MSc Student at the University of Edinburgh, studying Data, Inequality, & Society. As a lifelong learner dedicated to expanding her knowledge and professional skill set. She holds a BA in Psychology Studies and an MBA, equipping her with a strong foundation in human behavior, organizational leadership, and strategic management.

She is certified in Mental Health First Aid and Project Management, reinforcing her commitment to fostering supportive environments in both professional and volunteer capacities. 

A fluent English speaker with A1 proficiency in German, Schermerhorn is continually deepening her understanding of international cultures and languages to enhance her global perspective.

Volunteer Work

With a strong belief in the power of community, Janel Schermerhorn actively supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to social impact. 

She is a member of Nourishing Networks, a grassroots initiative that identifies and addresses critical human needs within local communities. Through their Food Box Program, she helps provide nutritious food to families experiencing food insecurity.

Schermerhorn has also contributed to Common Ground Berlin, an organization focused on fostering cross-cultural exchanges, and has played a vital role in the AWC Berlin Charity Auction, supporting philanthropic efforts across the city. 

As a dedicated storyteller, she is a two-time Moth Story Slam Winner, participating in workshops hosted by The Moth—a nonprofit that empowers individuals to share their personal stories in a way that inspires confidence and strengthens communities.

From leadership roles in global nonprofits to grassroots volunteer efforts, Janel Schermerhorn remains committed to making a meaningful difference. Her work across sectors, combined with her passion for storytelling and advocacy, continues to drive her forward as a student, producer, and community leader.