Letter: Macksey Is the Experienced Leader North Adams Needs

To the Editor:

During this election season, it's important to reflect on the challenges faced both locally and beyond. Municipalities across the state are in need of much to sustain — increased affordable housing, repairs to infrastructure and ADA compliance; the creation, recruitment, or growth of businesses; increased tourism; and so much more. We need a leader who has years of municipal experience, dedication to the City of North Adams, and will unite us.

That experienced leader is Jennifer Macksey.

North Adams may be a small city by population, but it is clearly remarkably spirited. While all residents may not share the same views, it's important to recognize that we share a common vision: respecting the city as it currently stands, while remaining inspired and motivated for improvements to come. Mayor Macksey has the experience and understanding to continue moving our city forward.

Among her accomplishments as mayor, she has ensured grant funding for a host of projects, including crucial repair or replacement of sidewalks and other citywide projects ensuring ADA compliance. As a community oriented leader, Jennifer Macksey has also worked to bring engaging events and celebrations for all ages to our down street — this is in addition to the successfully established and well-loved North Adams Recreation Center. Mayor Macksey has also been exploring alternatives to the current digital network as reliable and affordable internet access is essential for our community.

I personally know Mayor Macksey: she is kind and cordial by nature. She cares about North Adams, and puts in the time and effort to prove it. You will always see her at sporting events, down street festivities, and community gatherings. Mayor Macksey is the experienced candidate we need in the corner office. I encourage you to cast your vote for Jennifer Macksey as continued mayor of North Adams.

Christa Sprague
North Adams, Mass.

MCLA Announces Four Finalists for Next President

03:46PM / Thursday, April 02, 2026

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts announced four finalists for the position of president, following a national search. 

 

The finalists were selected by the MCLA Presidential Search Committee and will participate in on-campus visits scheduled for the weeks of April 6 and April 13.

 

The successful candidate will replace President James Birge, who is retiring at the end of the term. 

 

The four finalists are David Jenemann, Michael J. Middleton, Sherri Givens Mylott, and Diana L. Rogers-Adkinson.

 

David Jenemann

David Jenemann is dean of the Patrick Leahy Honors College and professor of English and film and television studies at the University of Vermont, where he oversees recruitment, retention, curricular innovation, and advancement for an interdisciplinary college serving undergraduates from across the university, including UVM's campuswide Office of Fellowships, Opportunities, and Undergraduate Research. 

 

An internationally recognized scholar, he has published three books and numerous articles, with research spanning intellectual and cultural history, mass media, and the intersection of sports and society.

He holds a doctor of philosophy from the University of Minnesota and completed the Institute for Management and Leadership in Education at Harvard Graduate School of Education.