Why are you running for School Committee?
What are your qualifications relative to this position?
What are your top priorities for Dedham's future?

2021 Candidates for Library Trustee (Contested)

There is one open 3 year term seat for the Trustees of the Public Library.
​The board of library trustees shall have general charge of the care and management of town libraries, and of all property of the town relating thereto. 

Robert William Desmond

No statement has been submitted.

Annette Raphel​

Why are you running for this office?
I am currently a trustee and have been a Friend of the Library, as both an admirer and a happy patron. The Library is a welcoming, responsive, free, useful, multipurpose and equitable institution and its health is an indicator of the health of the community. The joyous and open nature of the library deserve support and diligence to ensure it meets the community's needs and that it remains compliant with certification requirements. Libraries need champions for their staff, communicators about their programming, good listeners to make sure they meet citizen's needs, learners to assess outside suggestions and ideas, and attenders-to-details to monitor budgets and compliance issues.

What are your qualifications relative to the position you are running for?
I have spent nearly five decades as a teacher and school administrator. As a principal and head of two schools, I was responsible for library spaces, hiring librarians, budget oversight, and the collection of print and non-print materials. In each case, our library served as a vibrant center where children and their families were always welcome for guidance, recommendations, books selections and a host of programs. I am collaborative and both a good supporter and responsive listener.

What are your top priorities for Dedham's future?
I hope that the library continues to expand its programming to meet the needs of each of Dedham's citizens and that it remains a welcoming place for ideas and community gathering. I have lived in Dedham for nearly forty years and am heartened by increased diversity, inclusivity, and creativity. Because of my years spent in education, I am particularly interested in how we best serve our younger citizens so that they both can benefit from thoughtful changes we are making as well as encouraging them to consider how they might contribute as they grow older. I believe that learning, whether in schools, at the library, at the historical society, and in other venues should be prioritized.

Candidates for Town Wide office (contested races)

School Committee
​Board of Health
Parks and Recreation Commission

Candidates for Town Meeting (To find out what precinct you live in, click here.)

Precinct 1
Precinct 2
Precinct 3
Precinct 4
Precinct 5
Precinct 6
Precinct 7
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