Holyoke School Committee member Devin M. Sheehan was recently elected president of the National School Boards Association (NSBA) for 2025-26.
NSBA is a federation of state associations and the U.S. territory of the Virgin Islands. The organization was founded in 1940. Through its member state associations that represent locally elected school board officials serving millions of public school students, NSBA advocates for equity and excellence in public education through school board leadership.
“It is an incredible honor to serve as president of the National School Boards Association,” Mr. Sheehan said. “As someone who grew up in public schools and has spent my career advocating for students, I know firsthand the power of public education to transform lives. In this role, I remain deeply committed to advancing and protecting our nation’s public schools—standing up for equitable resources, supporting our educators, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed. Together, we will continue to be strong voices for the future of public education.”
Mr. Sheehan was appointed as an at-large representative to the Holyoke School Committee in June 2024. He also previously served on the Holyoke School Committee from 2010 to 2022. Over the years, he has taken on increasing leadership responsibilities within the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC), culminating in his role as president in 2019. At the national level, Mr. Sheehan has been an active contributor to NSBA, serving on regional nominating committees, chairing multiple board committees, and advocating consistently for educational equity. He also serves on the board of directors for the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association.
Professionally, Mr. Sheehan is the chief of staff to State Senator Jake Oliveira. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Franklin Pierce University and a Master of Public Policy from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.
“Devin Sheehan’s election as president of the National School Boards Association comes at a pivotal time for public education. As schools across the country navigate significant federal changes and evolving challenges, we need steady, experienced leadership more than ever,” said Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia. “His deep roots in Holyoke, his decades of advocacy, and his proven commitment to students make him the leader we need right now. We’re proud to see him representing our community on the national stage.”
HPS Superintendent Anthony Soto echoed Mayor Garcia’s sentiments.
“Mr. Sheehan continues to provide critical leadership on the Holyoke School Committee, and I know he will provide excellent leadership on a national level. His commitments to stakeholder engagement and inclusivity have helped create an environment where people feel valued and known. As he takes on this national role, I know he will continue to champion equity, access, and opportunity for every student—just as he has here in Holyoke.”