To the editor:
I am running to represent Hopewell Borough on the Board of Education. Gordon Lewis, who has held this seat for the past six years, is not running for re-election and I am grateful for his hard work and dedication to our schools these past six years. (Thank you Gordon!)
When my husband and I moved from Massachusetts in 2005, we sought out Hopewell Borough based its reputation for great schools and a strong sense of community. Eleven years and two sons later, we are deeply embedded and actively involved in our community and school related activities. Our sons, now in third and fifth grade, attend Hopewell Elementary School.
Professionally, I have built my career across the spectrum of mission driven non- and for-profit organizations. The first half of my career I focused on improving and expanding education and youth programs. I began my career as a public school teacher in Maryland, bringing a hands-on science and technology curriculum to a historically underserved community. I have developed programs and managed logistics for cultural exchange programs; and was the director of afterschool and summer programs in urban Massachusetts. These experiences helped shape my community development skills, my passionate commitment to high quality educational programs, and my dedication to collaboration and transparent communication.
I have spent the past 10 years working with Fortune 500 companies to use technology to structure, manage, and grow their charitable giving and volunteer programs and help them to connect with non-profits around the globe. This work has enabled me to build my business and management experience, strengthened my commitment to positive organizational development, and enabled me to grow my financial and project management skills.
I am an active and enthusiastic volunteer for Hopewell Borough events and local committees. In 2014 I started Food Truck Fridays, serve on the Economic Development Committee and am a Harvest Fair volunteer. For three years I sat on of the Parent Committee for the Before and After Care Program and last year was a member of the Principal’s Parent Advisory Committee at Hopewell Elementary.
The next years are important as the district implements the plans passed in September’s referendum. I am looking forward to putting my skills, experiences, and deep commitment to our community to work while serving on the Board of Education. I would very much appreciate your vote on Election Day.
Susan G. Pollara
Hopewell Borough
