Tolland BOE Vice Chair Endorses Democratic BOE Candidates

This year, Tolland has the opportunity to elect a slate of exceptional, student-centered leaders to serve on the Board of Education. I am honored to endorse Mackenzie Manning Elish, Joel Lopez, Jayden Regisford, and Dana Philbin—four individuals of integrity, dedication, and proven service to our community. Each brings unique strengths, deep commitment to public education, and our shared belief that students must always come first in every decision we make.
Together, this team offers:
• Strategic vision
• Professional expertise
• Experience in public service
• Commitment to transparency and collaboration
• Respect for students, families, and educators
These candidates are prepared to work together to strengthen academic excellence, maintain fiscal responsibility, and support the success and well-being of every student in Tolland.
________________________________
Mackenzie Manning Elish
Mackenzie is a passionate advocate for educational excellence and equitable opportunities for all students. Her 15 years of public service include board leadership roles with United Way and other Connecticut community organizations. Professionally, she serves as a Program Management Executive in the defense industry, where she leads complex strategic initiatives and oversees multimillion-dollar budgets.
Her academic background includes:
• Undergraduate degrees in Politics & Government, Economics, and Political Economy from the University of Hartford
• MBA from Villanova University in Strategic Management and Data Analytics
• Collegiate teaching experience
Mackenzie has been actively engaging with residents, attending local events, and listening deeply to community priorities. She will bring strong analytical thinking, financial insight, and heartfelt advocacy to the BOE.
________________________________
Joel Lopez
Joel is a retired Naval Officer with over 30 years of service, bringing outstanding leadership, accountability, and strategic planning skills to our Board. He currently serves on the Tolland Planning & Zoning Commission and previously served on the Tolland Veterans Recognition Commission, demonstrating his commitment to civic responsibility and community service.
Education & experience:
• Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts
• Master’s in Public Administration
• Extensive budget management and emergency operations leadership
As a current TPS parent and school volunteer, Joel values real-world problem solving, safety, and common-sense decision-making. He will serve as a steady and practical advocate for students, families, and educators.
________________________________
Jayden Regisford (Incumbent)
Jayden has served on the Board of Education for the past four years and is a proud graduate of Tolland High School. He brings a thoughtful and student-centered perspective to all board discussions. His professional role as a Program Manager for 5th and 6th grade students in Manchester gives him direct experience in instructional programming, youth development, and social-emotional learning.
Community involvement:
• Youth sports coach in soccer, baseball, basketball, and flag football for over 7 years
• THS Football PA announcer for nearly a decade
• Service on Policy & Curriculum Committees and Tolland Mental Health and Substance Abuse Task Force
Jayden is a strong advocate for literacy, STEM, and student well-being. His knowledge of district policy and student needs makes him an invaluable voice on the BOE.
________________________________
Dana Philbin (Incumbent)
Dana is a respected and hardworking BOE member with six years of dedicated service. She understands the complexities of school governance and is known for her thoughtful, balanced approach to every issue. She currently serves as Chair of the Policy Committee and has served on numerous others, including Curriculum, Finance & Facilities, Communications, and the Birch Grove Building Committee.
Professional & community experience:
• Over 25 years in business leadership, currently Branch Manager of a water solutions company
• Experienced in budgeting, logistics, and strategic planning
• Volunteer leader in Tolland Soccer Club and Tolland Little League
• Local coordinator for international student exchange programs, hosting multiple students in her home while supporting others throughout Connecticut
Dana brings collaboration, compassion, and strong fiscal understanding to board work and always keeps students at the forefront.
________________________________
A Team Tolland Can Count On
These four candidates offer the right balance of experience, strategic thinking, and community values. They listen. They lead responsibly. And most importantly, they care deeply about our students and the future of Tolland. I look forward to working alongside them for the next two years.
Vote for Mackenzie Manning Elish
Vote for Joel Lopez
Vote for Jayden Regisford
Vote for Dana Philbin
On November 4th – Vote for students. Vote for the future. Vote for Tolland.

Jenn Gallichant

Vice Chair, Tolland Board of Education