Type Of Business:
1) Museum 2) Government agency
Major Product/SVS:
1) Caribbean art 2) Legal services
Hobbies/Sports:
Reading; The water; Swimming; Tennis; Sailing; Doing outdoor activities
Education Degrees:
Clerkship in New York City for Wong and Chew Law Offices (1982-1984); Legal Coursework, Hofstra Law School (1977-1979); Coursework in Land Use Development and International Law, London School of Economics (1978); Bachelor's Degree in Women's Studies, Politics, Economics and American Studies, SUNY College at Old Westbury (1977)
Affiliations Awards:
New York State Bar Association; Virgin Islands Bar Association; Former President, United Way St. Croix
Number Of Years In Profession:
26
Number Of Years In Current Position:
14
What Does He/She Attribute Success To:
She attributes her success to her family and background, having passionate role models, learning from her mistakes and always pushing ahead. She was taught to leave the world a better place than she found it.
Why did you become involved in your profession or industry?:
She became involved in her profession at college because the faculty was socially conscious and socially active. The faculty said she should go to law school. Later, when the time came for a major change, she decided to go to St. Croix.
Extended Bio Profile:
Ms. Atwater Shields supports environmental associations, historical organizations and botanical gardens. She founded the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts in 1992.
Position Responsibilities and Duties:
1) Fundraising and grant writing; Overseeing the volunteers and staff; Cleaning; Painting; Working with design contractors; Dealing with energy grants and rehabilitation grants; Offering classes and courses; Publishing an annual fine arts calendar 2) Acting as one of the assistant attorney generals who handle 8,000 cases in St. Croix; Conducting hearings; Going to court; Interviewing clients and customers; Representing the best interests of children; Pulling files; Dealing with belligerent parents, judges, administration hearing officers, office managers and staff
Education Certifications:
Licensed Attorney
Where Will You Be In 5 Years:
In five years, Ms. Atwater Shields would like to see major changes in the family law system and work to pass legislation creating a more concerned and involved community support group. She wants to bring people back to basics.