BRATTLEBORO — Our town is lucky to have Daniel Quipp, who is running for a one-year seat on the Brattleboro Selectboard.
Daniel's work - both with SEVCA, helping local people make sure their homes stay warm, and as a community organizer with Vermont Interfaith Action - points to his dedication to making sure our neighbors' basic needs are being met. When someone works on behalf of people who are struggling and demonstrates a drive to be helpful to others, I take notice.
Daniel's actions and behavior on the Selectboard benefit Brattleboro and the people who live here. He is deliberate and thoughtful in his decision-making. He takes time to research the background of issues. He collaborates well, and when he disagrees, he does so with clarity and respect.
As a leader, Daniel is a hard worker and good listener who demonstrates a willingness to view multiple sides of an issue. He seeks and takes in a great deal of information and perspectives before deciding - he is not rash, and he treats all people, even the difficult ones, with care.
Daniel embodies the leadership style of “leading, rather than ruling.” His actions indicate he'd rather share power - and empower others - as much as possible.
I know these things because for the last few years I've worked closely with Daniel at WVEW, Brattleboro's non-commercial, all-volunteer, community radio station, where I am a program host, active volunteer, and music director.
When Daniel was elected president of the station's board of directors, the culture there changed quickly, noticeably, and in a positive direction. We have more volunteers helping to run the station, our community connections are stronger, our finances are stable due to the generosity of local supporters, and we have more program hosts now than we've ever had, which ensures a better experience for our listeners.
Daniel has contributed to a beautifully positive and welcoming culture at the station, and that's why more people want to be part of it.
Integrity: deeds matching words. Humility: actively listening and caring for others. Collaboration: empowering others. Intelligence: doing one's homework before deciding. That's what I look for in a leader.
That's why I'm voting for Daniel Quipp for the one-year Selectboard seat on March 3. I hope you'll join me.
See you at the polls!