It started with a sidewalk.
I began volunteering with the local Democratic Committee and educating myself on local government because I wanted my children, and everyone else, to be able to safely walk to school or to the train station, to be able to wait safely for the bus or walk their dog without concern. Many of our streets are difficult to traverse, and ever-increasing traffic is a real issue.
I’m originally from New Jersey, but lived in Brooklyn, NY and Austin, TX before finding my home here in Lower Merion. My family and I have enjoyed putting down roots in Bryn Mawr and I’m enthusiastic about serving this community as an open-minded listener, a determined advocate and a force for getting things done. I don't believe that political office should be a club of like-minded individuals. I believe in service. I believe that diversity of experience and diversity of thought are vital for progress. I believe that we need to put sustainability and social justice into every decision.
I’m a graduate of New York University with a Master’s degree from CUNY Brooklyn College. I spent twenty years as an educator and school leader, first in urban schools through Teach for America and, most recently, here at The Baldwin School in Bryn Mawr. As an environmental science teacher and department head, I focused on environmental justice and teaching data-based curriculum with student mental health at the forefront of consideration, a topic on which I have spoken on at national conferences. Last year, I took the leap to pivot my career and focus on growing my leadership skills within the private sector. Currently, I work in program management and facilitate cross-functional teams, inclusive of research, product design and business partners. As a manager, I support my team and prioritize psychological safety and transparency.
My children, ages 17, 15 and 10 are students in the Lower Merion public schools and have thrived in the academic, athletic, service and arts programs we are so lucky to have here. I’m running for this position because it would be a privilege to serve my neighbors and because I know we can and should ensure that what’s already wonderful about Lower Merion is available to all of its residents. And I know we can do even more to grow together as a community. It started with a sidewalk, but now it’s about making sure our local representatives hear and consider the voices of all residents equally; it’s about protecting the natural beauty of Lower Merion for now and for generations to come; it’s about protecting and including our LGBTQ+ neighbors; it’s about so much more than a sidewalk, but that’s a great place to start.
My platform
Performing community outreach with the goal of bringing more diverse voices into local government
Reducing Lower Merion's carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy infrastructure
Improving walkability and bikeability township-wide
Maintaining community safety and partnerships with our emergency services
Strengthening relationships with local institutions
Assisting homeowners with water conservation and healthy soil maintenance
Being an aware, available, and attentive advocate for the residents of Ward 11
Why Suypport Maggie
"I am proud to endorse Maggie Epstein for Lower Merion Commissioner. We need knowledgeable and compassionate leaders like her at every level of government, and I know that her experiences in education and business make her the right fit for Lower Merion."
US Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon
