On Jan. 5 Everett High School hosted the inauguration of new mayor Robert Van Campen, who recently defeated longtime incumbent Carlo DeMaria. The inaugural exercises were attended by many Everett residents who were there to witness the changing of mayors after 18 years. Accompanying Van Campen on stage was his wife Lisa, his son John and daughter Lily.
Governor Maura Healey and Ayanna Pressley from the United States House of Representatives were also present at the ceremony. Both women made speeches to congratulate Van Campen on his new role. Middlesex County District Attorney Marion Ryan was also in attendance. Everett’s own Senator Sal DiDomenico and Representative Joe McGonagle were a part of the group of dignitaries as well.
City Clerk Sergio Cornelio conducted Van Campen’s oath of office, then Mayor Van Campen delivered his inaugural address which focused on the growth of our city. He emphasized collaboration with the school committee and city council.
“Together we can make a great school system into an urban model of excellence and success,” Van Campen said, “ where teachers aren’t overwhelmed by packed classrooms and children get the attention they deserve.”
The mayor also showed his gratitude for his family and those who supported him.
The ceremony was followed by a reception in the EHS cafeteria. While people were eating and dancing downstairs, the city’s elected officials made their way to the library for their organizational meetings.
The night also made history because both the school committee and city council are majority women for the first time in Everett’s history. The new and returning members of these two bodies took their oath during the inaugural exercises as well.
The school committee meeting was first. Chairperson Samantha Hurley was nominated to lead the committee again this term. She was unanimously voted by her peers. The At-Large member was gracious in accepting the honor, thanking the committee, administration, and her family. Ward 5 representative Marcony Almeida Barros was nominated by the former vice-chair, Jeanne Christiano, for her seat next to the chair.
Christiano began by endorsing Barros, explaining how his commitment to our immigrant community and previous experience makes him the ideal candidate for vice-chairperson. Barros was elected and took his place next to Chairperson Hurley.
The school committee’s meeting concluded with Superintendent Hart taking his oath as secretary to the committee and a 10-0 vote adopting the rules and regulations for the coming term. The committee welcomed At-Large member Millie Cardello back and Mayor Van Campen into his new role as a voting member.
Following the school committee meeting, the city council began their organizational meeting. Stephanie Smith was elected as city council president by a unanimous role-call vote. “Collaboration between this Council and the Mayor’s office is essential,” said Smith. “and I am committed to building a respectful, productive partnership focused on the people of this city.” Smith thanked her family in her remarks and stated that she was proud to lead the first-ever women majority council. Councillor John Burley was nominated as the clerk of committees for 2026-2027.
January 5 left the city of Everett hopeful as this new chapter begins.
