New Beginnings for Long Time Board Member and President Stacie Bloxham

Being a frequent Main St. walker and commuter, Stacie Bloxham passed by Tri-Town Council’s office regularly, and was often curious about the organization—who they were and what they did. With two young children at Steward Elementary in Topsfield, she soon became familiar with TTC through their Horizons after-school enrichment offerings. Being a licensed mental health counselor working primarily with children and families, Stacie was drawn to the mission of Tri-Town Council. One winter day in 2014, as she was walking by the TTC office, she decided to pop in and say hello, and was warmly greeted by Lisa Teichner, TTC’s former Executive Director. That winter day proved to be the first step in a meaningful journey with Tri-Town Council. Stacie joined the volunteer Board of Directors in the Spring of 2015.

Working on the intervention side of family and youth services is very challenging work and can easily lead to feelings of discouragement. TTC’s focus on prevention and strengthening healthy foundations and families was the “breath of fresh air” that Stacie needed. Her work on the board revitalized the “energy and passion she had for the work she was doing everyday.” TTC’s programming, speakers and events aligned closely with her work and she was able to take information gleaned back to her staff and the youth and families she served. And the benefit was mutual. Stacie’s professional experience informed TTC’s initiatives and programs.

Not surprisingly, her knowledge, expertise, leadership skills, and commitment to Tri-Town Council and the community led Stacie to serve 4 terms as board president starting in July of 2018. As board president Stacie faced transitions and challenges. During her tenure, together with board colleagues, she guided and shaped the transfer of leadership upon Lisa Teichner’s departure in 2019 after more than 10 years of service, doubled board membership, activated board sub-committees, updated board policies, and much more. In the midst of her service, the global pandemic hit. Stacie was a trusted advisor and worked closely with the TTC staff and fellow board members as they navigated the challenges of the pandemic. Expressing appreciation for her colleagues, Stacie reflected, “our board did some amazing work during COVID and made some real headway on outstanding organizational needs.”

Stacie’s involvement with TTC nourished her. “Anytime I have the opportunity to give back is amazing but working with this organization made the volunteer experience more meaningful than I ever could have imagined.” For Stacie, part of what made the experience so meaningful was working alongside the TTC team. She expressed her gratitude, “One cannot say enough about the staff. They are a dedicated, hardworking and committed group of individuals that remain true to the mission of TTC. They were willing to work days, nights, weekends, overnights (for the grad party) and always did so with smiles and energy. Their passion for kids and the community seems limitless. It was inspiring and energizing.” Stacie’s fellow board members are equally grateful for her service. Randi Brown expressed appreciation for Stacie’s leadership. “Stacie was welcoming and inclusive from day one. Her leadership during unprecedented times was remarkable.” Long time board member and secretary Beth Beringer shared, “Stacie was such a valued leader of TTC for many years. With Stacie at the helm, we always knew that our board meetings would be productive, organized, and infused with a sense of fun.”

Current Executive Director Meredith Shaw reflects, “TTC is incredibly fortunate to have board members who volunteer their time, wisdom and expertise to support the health and well being of our kids and community. Stacie was incredibly generous, not only with sharing her professional knowledge, advocacy and experience but also with her time. Over the years, we spent many Saturday nights chaperoning Open Gyms, a couple of All Night Grad Party overnights, early weekday mornings planning before her work day started, and mastering how to effectively facilitate Covid-era Zoom meetings. Stacie was a joy to work with. Under her board leadership, in spite of the challenges wrought by Covid, TTC emerged a better organization, and our board and team will continue to build on the strong foundation upon which she, and those that served before her, left us.” Beth summed up Stacie’s service and spirit perfectly. “Stacie is a dedicated member of the Tri-Town, always keeping young people’s well-being at the heart of what she does. We are so lucky to have her in our community!”

Stacie’s tenure as board president has come to an end, and she is off to begin new adventures - sharing her talents and expertise with other local non-profits. TTC is deeply grateful to Stacie for her long-time service. She will always be part of the TTC family!