Manchester Community Library Welcomes Four New Members to the Board of Trustees

Manchester, VT–The Manchester Community Library (MCL) is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Trustees. Becky Burke, Caralee Kennedy, Cristina Maddocks, and Hilary Oskam bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the community, further strengthening the Library’s mission to foster learning, creativity, and connection for all.

“We are pleased to welcome Cristina, Caralee, Becky, and Hilary to the MCL Board. Each brings a unique perspective and broad experiences that will contribute greatly to our dialogue going forward,” said John Clark, President of the MCL Board of Trustees.

Meet the New Board Members:

• Becky Burke – Originally from Duchess County, NY, Becky Burke moved to Manchester full-time in 2001 after building a seasonal home with her husband Bill in 1988. With a background in country club business, real estate, and floral design, Becky quickly became an active community volunteer. She has served in various roles with organizations such as the Bart Center Adaptive Ski Program, Hildene, VT Komen Race for the Cure, GMALL, and the Garden Club of Manchester, among many others.

• Caralee Kennedy – A Vermont native, Caralee Kennedy is a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch and an advocate for financial literacy. She holds degrees in business, marketing, and finance and is passionate about empowering individuals of all backgrounds with the tools needed to achieve their goals. Caralee also leads CommUNITY, a local organization focused on cultural diversity and equity work, and serves as secretary for the Rutland Area NAACP. She resides in West Pawlet with her husband, Seth, and their blended family of five children.

• Cristina Maddocks – A seasoned mental health professional with 20 years of experience, Cristina has worked in Vermont’s designated mental health agencies, early education, and nonprofit settings. She is passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and advocating for youth and families in their home, school, and community environments.

• Hilary Winston Oskam – A lifelong lover of books and learning, Hilary has dedicated much of her time to volunteering in schools, churches, and community organizations. Originally from Pelham Manor, NY, she holds a degree in History from Fordham University and has lived in multiple states and Canada before settling in Dorset, VT. She has managed a school thrift shop, coached middle school field hockey, and worked in retail management while staying deeply engaged in her children’s education and faith communities. Hilary currently volunteers at MCL and the Community Food Cupboard and is passionate about fostering a love of reading in the community.

As members of the Board of Trustees, Becky Burke, Caralee Kennedy, Cristina Maddocks, and Hilary Oskam will play an essential role in guiding the Library’s strategic initiatives, ensuring its long-term sustainability, and enhancing its programs and services to enrich the lives of Manchester residents.

About Manchester Community Library:
Manchester Community Library serves as a hub of learning, exploration, and community engagement. Through innovative programs, dynamic resources, and welcoming spaces, MCL is committed to supporting literacy, lifelong learning, and cultural enrichment for all.

For more information about the Manchester Community Library or to learn how you can get involved, please visit at 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT or online at mclvt.org.

From left to right: Cristina Maddocks, Becky Burke, Caralee Kennedy, and Hilary Oskam