2 weeks Ago By Manchester Journal staff
MANCHESTER — The Manchester Community Library (MCL) has appointed four new members to its Board of Trustees: Becky Burke, Caralee Kennedy, Cristina Maddocks, and Hilary Oskam. The additions "bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the community, further strengthening the Library’s mission to foster learning, creativity, and connection for all," stated a press release from the library. “We are pleased to welcome Cristina, Caralee, Becky, and Hilary to the MCL Board.
Each brings a unique perspective and broad experiences that will contribute greatly to our dialogue going forward,” said John Clark, President of the MCL Board of Trustees. Burke is originally from Duchess County, NY, and moved Manchester full-time in 2001 after building a seasonal home with her husband Bill in 1988. With a background in country club business, real estate, and floral design, Burke quickly became an active community volunteer.
She has served in various roles with organizations such as the Bart Center Adaptive Ski Program, Hildene, VT Komen Race for the Cure, GMALL, and the Garden Club of Manchester, among many others. Kennedy is a Vermont native and a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch and an advocate for financial literacy. She holds degrees in business, marketing, and finance and is passionate about empowering individuals of all backgrounds with the tools needed to achieve their goals.
Kennedy also leads CommUNITY, a local organization focused on cultural diversity and equity work, and serves as secretary for the Rutland Area NAACP. She resides in West Pawlet with her husband, Seth, and their blended family of five children. Maddocks is a seasoned mental health professional with 20 years of experience, Maddocks has worked in Vermont’s designated mental health agencies, early education, and nonprofit settings.
She is passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and advocating for youth and families in their home, school, and community environments. Oskam describes herself as a lifelong lover of books and learning, and has dedicated much of her time to volunteering in schools, churches, and community organizations. Originally from Pelham Manor, NY, she holds a degree in History from Fordham University and has lived in multiple states and Canada before settling in Dorset.
She has managed a school thrift shop, coached middle school field hockey, and worked in retail management while staying deeply engaged in her children’s education and faith communities. Oskam currently volunteers at MCL and the Community Food Cupboard and is passionate about fostering a love of reading in the community. As members of the Board of Trustees, Becky Burke, Caralee Kennedy, Cristina Maddocks, and Hilary Oskam will play an essential role in guiding the Library’s strategic initiatives, ensuring its long-term sustainability, and enhancing its programs and services to enrich the lives of Manchester residents, according to the library.
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