I am writing to support Jamie Daniels for Amherst Town Council at-large.
Jamie is a newcomer to town politics, but not to Amherst, having grown up in Amherst and having sent her three children to Amherst public schools. She is a practicing psychotherapist who owns her own business (Polestar Therapy), and she has graduated recently from the Smith School for Social Work, where she earned a doctoral degree in social work.
Jamie is not a traditional politician, but she has had significant experience serving on community boards and within organizations. She describes herself as a “lifelong activist” in her advocacy for young people and families. She decided to forgo endorsements from both Amherst Forward and the Progressive Coalition to better achieve her vision of building a united Amherst.
Her goals are my goals: building an inclusive and welcoming community, promoting sustainable economic development, advocating for affordable housing and working on the infrastructure needs of Amherst. Most importantly, she has the experience and skills to guide us as citizens in overcoming our differences through civil discourse.
Jamie would bring many skills to the Amherst Town Council. As an educator for seven years at the Smith School for Social Work, she understands how to listen to diverse points of view, and to summarize and present arguments and evidence clearly and succinctly. As a board facilitator, she has demonstrated organizational development skills and has guided various organizations to change directions and solve problems. She possesses advanced mediation skills and has worked effectively as a diversity, equity and inclusion consultant.
Jamie also understands budgets as a small business owner and within organizations. I think that Jamie Daniels’ experience and skills make her an excellent candidate for Town Council and I support her enthusiastically.
Susan J. Tracy
Amherst
