Meet Amber Black, TESS Operations Manager

Q: What is your role at TESS Research Foundation?

I am the Operations Manager (and mom to Superhero Rowan)! I started this position on May 1st and am currently learning about all the hats I am going to be wearing for TESS. My role includes assisting with our website, managing our various databases, helping with external communications, providing administrative support, supporting fundraising events, raising awareness, and more!

Q: How does the work you are doing have the potential to help those with SLC13A5 Epilepsy?

My goal is to provide my TESS team members with the support they need to do their jobs in the most effective way possible. Helping out wherever needed will allow the team to drive the foundation’s initiatives forward efficiently and with ease so TESS can gain all the resources we need to find a treatment or cure for our children.

Q: What inspires you to contribute your time and skills to TESS?

The answer is simple – my sweet Rowan. Rowan was born with SLC13A5 Epilepsy and he motivates me every day to help make the world a better place for everyone impacted by this severe disorder. As a medical mom you never feel like you’re doing enough, especially when you see your child having uncontrollable seizures (despite being on five anti-seizure medications) and not reaching their milestones like other children their age. This can make you feel defeated on a daily basis but Rowan’s smile and perseverance through it all makes me want to hit the ground running every day. Contributing to the TESS team makes me feel like I can, and will, make a difference.

Q: Have you learned anything through your work with TESS Research Foundation that you’d like to share?

I have learned that if you put in the time and energy, a small team can be mighty and move mountains. I am used to working for a large company so it is really inspiring to see what TESS has done already and what we have planned for the future. I am beyond grateful to be part of such an incredible and inspiring team.