Age 39, Manchester resident
General Manager, XMA Corporation
Birthplace: Exeter
Family: Husband, Dana Dexter; parents, Fred and Linda Richard; sister, Angie Dane
High school: Trinity High School, Class of 2002
College/post grad degrees: SNHU, BS Business Administration
What motivates you to give back to your community?
From an early age, my grandmother’s deep involvement in our hometown left a lasting impression on me. Whether serving as a the chair of the school board or leading the local historical society, she maintained a close connection with our community, promoting positive transformations. These values have been handed down to me, fueling a desire to see the City of Manchester prosper. Recognizing our community’s untapped potential, my participation in Leadership Greater Manchester and Leadership New Hampshire have shown the power of asking tough questions, challenging the norm, and how one person’s passion can truly ignite positive change.
What advice would you give your 22-year-old self?
Embrace uncertainty and change. Remember that mistakes are valuable learning experiences, and they contribute to personal growth. Stay true to your values, learn from different perspectives and trust in your ability to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
What would make New Hampshire more attractive to young professionals?
Continue to capitalize on our economic opportunities, embrace our natural resources, and our proximity to mountains, lakes, oceans, major cities, and the strong sense of community that defines us. We must overcome NIMBYism and double down on efforts in making housing more affordable, enhance public transportation for better regional connectivity, and critically assess our state funding models. Striking a balance between preserving our identity and fostering the necessary economic growth and diversity is key for a sustainable future.
Do you see yourself living and working in New Hampshire at age 55-plus?
Absolutely, but with a twist! Ideally, by age 55 I will be retired, which would take working in New Hampshire off the table! In all seriousness, New Hampshire will always be home, but might look different than it does now. I would like to maintain a residence in the Lakes Region for the summer, fall and the occasional ski trip and a home in a warmer climate to enjoy during the winter months.
Volunteer activities: Trustee, NH Civics; chair, Leadership Greater Manchester; board member, Webster House Children’s Home; board member, NH Tech Alliance; past president, Manchester Area HR Association; trustee, Manchester Historic Association; commissioner, Manchester Heritage Commission; member, Palace Theatre Advisory Board.
Last major achievement: Receiving the 2023 Business Excellence Award in Manufacturing from New Hampshire Business Review.
