Odessa Sanchez
Background and experience
I live in Wellesley Housing and have advocated here every day for the last 12 years.
Before Wellesley, I lived in Norwood Housing (1998-2008), where I was a five-year Tenant Association Vice President. In Wellesley, I was vice president of Tenant Association (2018). I have experience working with residents, management, and maintenance staff; attending board meetings; building community relationships; positively presenting my ideas and suggestions for improving residential life; and knowledge of state guidelines. Through my daily life, I work as a teacher and coach so I m comfortable engaging with residents and many trust me as a neighborhood resource.
Wicked Local
I am a wife and hard-working mother of a blended African American and Latinx family. A 12-year resident, I have found Wellesley to be a welcoming community. Working in the private and public schools as a teacher and coach gives me a variety of experience collaborating with the School Department, Wellesley Police Department, Board of Health, Celebrations, local businesses and other committees/ boards. I ve gained tremendous insight into town affairs. I ve previously worked in scientific and corporate fields, understanding research and how to delegate appropriate tasks. Civic leadership and relationship building are necessary skills for a Select Board member. As a former room parent, PTO secretary, School Council Parent Elect (Wellesley High School), Dance Committee Chair (Wellesley Middle School), Cheer director and founder, Wellesley Housing Tenant Association VP, Community advocate, and Neighborhood Fridge Founder, I would use leadership and analytical skills to perf