Published on May 13, 2026
The San Marcos City Council recognized Amber Ter-Vrugt Tuesday with the Civic SMILE Award, short for “San Marcos Inspiration, Leadership and Excellence.”
San Marcos City Council members each nominate one SMILE Award recipient a year. Council Member Ed Musgrove selected this month’s honoree:
“Amber joined Scripps Health in 2014 and serves as AVP, Government Relations and Community Benefit. Amber oversees Scripps community benefits and government relations departments and is responsible for Scripps legislative agenda where she works with elected officials and regulators on the unique issues facing Scripps in alignment with Scripps mission and corporate priorities at the local, state and federal level. She also manages Scripps’ community relations programming in coordination with corporate and marketing priorities. Amber represents Scripps with industry associations, public issue groups, and regional business, civic and community-based organizations.
Among her leadership roles in the community, Amber serves on the board of Lifeline Community Services. Prior to joining Scripps, Amber had been working in government relations in Southern California for 12 years, most recently with Sempra Energy Utilities. She has received accolades throughout the years including the 2022 American Hospital Association’s champion award for California. Amber earned her master’s degree in public health from California State University, San Marcos as well as a bachelor’s degree in communications from California Polytechnic University, Pomona.”
Created in 2021, the SMILE Award celebrates individuals and organizations that embody the community’s spirit of service and dedication. See the full list of honorees on the city’s website.