He is most proud of his service in the United States Navy, and to have visited numerous state universities, libraries and cities for book tours and signings since publishing his first novel in 2005.
CARBONDALE, PA, July 20, 2023 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Richard A. Hurd has been included in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Drawing on over three decades of diverse expertise, Mr. Hurd specializes in science fiction writing and music education. Since 2018, he has found much success as a transcript advocate at Penn Foster Career School International. In this capacity, he transfers high school credits of enrollees to Penn Foster's online program. Prior to this role, he was active as a facility manager at the Services Management Systems from 1997 until 2018. In addition to his primary vocation, Mr. Hurd serves as science fiction and fantasy novelist of two series, The Mythosian Chronicles
Series and The Photon Series. The Mythosians Chronicle Series were originally written as fan fiction and originally geared as a trilogy. However, readers suggested he turn the series into his own work, using his own characters and settings, and to expand the trilogy into nine novels. Following fan advice, Mr. Hurd did that with the Photon Series. The books are, in order, Photons & Fairies, Photons & Felines, Photons & Fillies, Photons & Furry Tales, Photons & Fangs, Photons & Feathered Feet, Photons & Fur Balls, Photons & Friends, and Photons & Foes. The books are dedicated to David Wilson, a Navy buddy, who encouraged Rich to become an author, as the books were originally just letters the two friends wrote back and forth to each other over the course of 20 years. Why "photons"? One, no one could remember or spell "Mythosian". Second, it hints that the books are not to be taken seriously and makes for "light" reading.
Mr. Hurd initially began his career serving in the United States Navy as a surface warfare specialist and a damage control petty officer of the supply division from 1983 to 1987. Between 1987 and 1997, he worked a variety of jobs across the United States and upon graduating from college, he served as a music director at the Calvary Christian Academy in Ypsilanti, Michigan for almost two years. He continued to garner expertise as an educator at such institutions as the East Stroudsburg Area School District, the Bald Eagle Area School District and the Abington Christian Academy. During this time, Mr. Hurd also excelled as a store manager at the Arts and Music Emporium Inc.
During his professional journey, Mr. Hurd pursued an education at the Baptist Bible College, where he obtained dual bachelor's degrees in pastoral ministry and music education in 2002. As a commitment to his field, he has been certified as a music teacher in the State of Pennsylvania and was active as a member with the Slate Belt Band, the Ypsilanti Community Choir and Band, and the Roseto Coronet Band. Likewise dedicated to civic advocacy, Mr. Hurd contributes to local animal shelters and serves as a volunteer, deacon, pianist and organist at the Finch Hill Baptist Church. He has been a Pastor at Port Matilda Baptist Church, Port Matilda PA and Bethel Baptist Church, Scranton PA.
Among his professional accomplishments, Mr. Hurd is most proud of his service in the United States Navy, and to have visited numerous state universities, libraries and cities for book tours and signings since publishing his first novel in 2005. Additionally, he is gratified to have participated in the University of Michigan's "Author Day," where he was honored for his work by his former students. Reflecting on his career, he attributes much of his success to his Christian faith and the support of his loving wife Barbara and mentors, including his pastors, professors, fellow service members and parents, who instilled in him a strong work ethic and the drive to succeed. Looking toward the future, Mr. Hurd aspires to successfully retire, become a full-time author and embark on international book tours.
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