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Board of Directors

Peter Casey

Peter Casey is the former director of news and programming at WBZ News Radio, the founder of Peter Casey Communications, and a senior strategic communications advisor with significant experience in media, management, and multi-platform communications. He advises senior corporate leaders on communications strategies, branding, storytelling and content creation, social media, crisis communications, and media training. 

Emily Costello 

Emily Costello is the Director of Collaborations + Local News at The Conversation, a mission-driven newsroom that partners with academic experts to explain the news. Beginning in the summer of 2023, Emily is working on an initiative to regionalize The Conversation’s model to better support local news organizations. She formerly served as the editor of the Winchester Star and the Newton TAB. Emily is a graduate of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Tara Hughes, President

Tara Hughes is a former practicing attorney and Town Meeting Member. She was appointed to the Communications Study Committee created by Town Meeting in 2021. Previously Tara was an active volunteer in the Winchester school system. She is interested in supporting a vibrant democracy through an informed citizenry.

Alison Swallow, Treasurer

Alison Swallow is a current Town Meeting member.  With a background in the financial services industry, she has served on the Winchester town Finance and Capital Planning Committees, and as treasurer of Family Action Network of Winchester (FAN) and various Winchester town election campaigns.  She has two children in the Winchester school system.  

Joyce Westner, Clerk and Winchester News Founder

Joyce Westner spent her professional career after serving in the Peace Corps, writing materials, both for newspapers as a stringer, and as a technical training materials developer and project manager. She was the corporate clerk for Brattle Systems, Inc., and held offices in various non-profits, including the Winchester Historical Society. With a Northeastern University degree in journalism, she specializes in publicizing the activities of local community groups.