Re-elect Cathy Dowd — Needham Select Board
Vote: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Leadership that listens. Experience that matters.
A little bit about me…
My husband Sean and I moved to Needham in 1997 and have raised our two daughters here. We are so happy to be part of this wonderful community where everyone feels like a neighbor. Civic engagement has always been important to me, and I volunteered for many years with the League of Women Voters and as a Town Meeting Member.
In 2007, after working in the public and private sectors, I became a social studies teacher, and for 15 years I taught US History and AP Government at Needham High School. Teaching in Needham brought home to me how strong our public school system is, and how much our residents care about the next generation.
Three years ago, I felt I had experience necessary to run for the Select Board. My first term has been remarkable. Serving as on the Select Board within our nonpartisan town meeting form of government energizes and inspires me. I have learned that when we work together with open minds, we can make positive change in Needham. I have relished the opportunity to serve the town on the Select Board, and I am eager to continue.
Town Government Experience
My time on the Select Board is grounded in years of showing up for Needham. From Town Meeting to specialized committees, I’ve learned the howand why of our local government so that I can deliver value for everyone.
Current Vice Chair, Needham Select Board
Needham Select Board (2023 – present)
Town Meeting Member (2017 – 2023)
Town-Financed Community Housing Oversight Committee (T-CHOC)
General Bylaw Review Committee
Subcommittee to Study Minuteman High School
Advisory Committee on Municipal Electricity AggregationMy priorities are:
Improving our quality of life
Creating a welcoming community
Fiscally sustainable decision making
Engaging Needham residents to develop a shared vision for Needham’s future
Civil discourse
Qualifications
I bring a unique mix of experiences to the table: the perspective of a longtime Needham resident and Needham High School teacher, the analytical background of an MBA, and a current deep dive into the legal frameworks that will shape our town's future.
Northeastern School of Law – J.D. candidate (2023 – present)
Needham High School U.S. History and AP Government teacher (2007 – 2023)
Work experience in government and consulting
Wharton School – M.B.A.
Needham League of Women Voters member
Needham resident since 1997
What Guides My Decisions
I believe that local government works best when we prioritize civil discourse, fiscal responsibility, and the simple goal of making everyone feel truly at home in Needham. My priorities are:
Improving our quality of life
Creating a welcoming community
Fiscally sustainable decision making
Engaging Needham residents to develop a shared vision for Needham’s future
Civil discourse