Meet Kathleen Buckley, Holliston’s Assistant Town Administrator and Human Resource Director.  Hired in November 2021, Buckley has already published the premier edition of newsletter Holliston Hometown, recently introduced to residents and available on the Town’s website. (https://www.townofholliston.us/sites/g/files/vyhlif706/f/uploads/holliston_hometown_newsletter_spring_2022_final_0.pdf)

A short time ago, we met with Buckley in her basement Town Hall office, formerly the lower level conference room.  The office of Cheryl Houle, HR Benefits Specialist, adjoins Buckley’s welcoming space.  A beautifully serene framed photo of Factory Pond welcomed us into the space.  Buckley said she chose it intentionally to calm any apprehension of visitors.

Needham is home to Buckley; her adult twins now reside together in Boston.  She’s proud of her two, one working in finance, the other attending University of Boston Law School.  Trips to the city to visit the twins make her happy, as does the idea that the two are roommates.  Prior to joining us in Holliston, Buckley worked in Wayland, but has already become a great asset to Holliston with education, certifications, and experiences to aid her in wearing two hats. 

In her former position with the State Senate, Buckley worked in the HR department.  She described her work in benefits and constituent services, learning employment law, and “helping people doing good work.”  She worked with 3 Senate Presidents, including a few months with Karen Spilka, presently serving.  According to information shared at the March 14 Select Board meeting, Holliston will be a recipient of resources from the State.  “It’s an exciting time,” said Buckley.

Commenting on Holliston’s Town Administrator Travis Ahern’s new cable access (HCAT) program, “Ask the TA,” Buckley said that the program provides residents with a way to ask questions and communicate through email.  This less-public arena may encourage more interaction.  (You may email your question to asktheta@holliston.k12.ma.us or catch the latest episode on https://hcat.viebit.com/player.php?hash=qGPYKUzMjpaN).

One of Buckley’s goals is to become a resource for the town.  Every day Buckley walks around town.  She wants residents as well as businesses to see her as a resource.  With feedback to her from town employees, she already knows that they feel good to have someone to turn to with questions and concerns as she  begins making an impact by providing guidance.

Additionally, Buckley in interested in having conversations with neighbors and groups regarding equity and inclusion, herself being a liaison between these groups and the town.  She spoke to the possibility of the Cultural Council grants supporting actions and events that bring more attention to Holliston inclusivity.   Looking to the future, Buckley noted that the Farmers’ Market, the Blair Square “remodel,” and the upcoming 300th Anniversary of Holliston each present an opportunity to highlight the present and developing inclusivity of Holliston. 

“I feel like I’m a part of something,” said Buckley.  She works closely with Cheryl, Travis, and Technology Director Chris Meo, “Who are all good people,” Buckley explained.  Borrowing and posting a phrase from Ted Lasso on her HR bulletin board: “Believe.  Be a goldfish.” This is Buckley’s subtle way of endorsing the strength of the 10-second goldfish memory. Lasso believes this makes the goldfish the happiest of creatures. 

People may make mistakes, but putting them into perspective, moving on is often the best course of action…We’re believers.  Meet Kathleen Buckley, and we think you will be, too.