New director of recreation appointed in Andover

  • 2024-08-14
Joseph Connelly has returned to Andover as its new Director of Recreation.

Connelly will replace Christopher Dempsey as Director of Recreation for the town as Dempsey has become the Director of Youth Services. A comprehensive search process was employed that selected Connelly for the position.

Such appointments often call for business card printing services.

Connelly has close to 30 years of experience in municipal recreation, having served as the first Director of Community Services in Andover from 2016 to 2019. Most recently he has been the Director of Recreation for the town of Arlington and the Executive Director of the North Suburban YMCA of Greater Boston. His other leadership roles include serving in the towns of Reading and Winchester.

Connelly has a wealth of expertise in community engagement, capital project management, and budgeting and has experience with recreational and municipal facilities, including playgrounds, recreational beaches, and ice arenas. When he previously worked in Andover, he initiated the renovation of the senior center and launched the successful Kid Care program,

Andrew Flanagan, Town Manager, said that Connelly is one of the most accomplished individuals and well-respected voices in the field of municipal recreation in the state. Flanagan added that no one is more committed to public participation in a process and to the public in general than Connelly and is ideal for the position.