I urge all North Smithfield voters to support Beth Newberry for town administrator. I have known Beth for many years as a friend and neighbor. Our children were close in age, so we had a lot in common. She has a rare combination of compassion and empathy coupled with a hardheaded, clear-eyed vision of group dynamics and how to lead. Our town is at a crossroad. The small-town collegial atmosphere we all want has taken some hits in recent years. Too much infighting and divisiveness amongst otherwise good people has soured the mood. We need an administrator who can work with all residents and officials, bring people together; who leads by both example and consensus, knows she does not have all the answers, but collectively we do. We need someone who brings out the best in all of us. Beth is that person.
Mary Golouski, North Smithfield
Beth’s approach to leadership is truly inspiring. I’ve seen firsthand how she always takes the time to ask questions and make sure she fully understands the needs and concerns of her team and her community. Her genuine ability to listen and engage with others creates a sense of inclusivity, and trust that is rare to find.
Strong executive functioning skills combined with her high emotional intelligence make her an incredibly effective leader. She navigates complex situations with clarity and composure, always following through on her commitments. Even in the most challenging times Beth remains levelheaded and empathetic, leading with strength and sensitivity.
I’ve witnessed Beth lead by example and built consensus time and time again. She has an incredible knack for bringing out the best and everyone around her which is exactly what every town needs to move forward.
I have known Beth personally for many years, as a mother, a wife, a colleague, a mentor and a leader, and now I call her friend.
Throughout that time I’ve come to see her as someone that listens. Whether she agrees with the speaker or not, she listens. When asked for solutions, she looks ahead to actually solve a problem, and not just “fix it for now.” She doesn’t stand by when she feels her family, her team or her friends have been wronged. She stands up and puts her hat in to find a solution.
I look forward to seeing Beth in more leadership roles. I’d enjoy watching her as our Town administrator because I know her goal is to help North Smithfield continue to grow as a successful community that we can all be proud to live in.