Angela Howard joins Borough Council

DOWNINGTOWN » The Borough Council has a new member.

Borough Mayor Phil Dague said in January the council appointed Angela Howard to fill a vacancy left after the resignation of Charles Rogers, who moved to West Bradford.

The Borough Council reviewed the applications of six candidates who applied to join the historic municipality’s governing body. Borough Council voted in favor of appointing Howard to the role, as previously reported.

The mayor said all six of the local candidates vying for the role “were highly qualified residents of the borough.”

Howard is filling a vacancy on the Borough Council that shall expire at the end of the year.

“My short-term goals are to obtain a deeper understanding of local government, listen to constituents, and respect individuals regardless of the dynamic of the relationship,” Howard said on Tuesday.

What inspires her most about living in the borough, she said, is “the passion for my community and desire to build strong relationships with those around me.”

Howard has lived in Downingtown since 1992. She was born and raised in West Chester.

“I have witnessed the tremendous growth,” Howard said. “I would like to contribute and support the continuous improvement of the borough’s infrastructure.”

Today, Howard serves as interim director for the Center for International Programs at West Chester University. “As a higher education professional, I am committed to developing strategies to extend access to global educational experiences to prepare students to compete for careers as advances in education, technology, and communication extend beyond national borders,” the councilwoman said.

With more than 25 years of experience in higher education administration, Howard has served in a variety of roles in admissions, social equity and alumni relations.

“My experience as a Fulbright Scholar to Japan afforded me an opportunity to study international higher education, structure, grading system, and academic program offerings,” she stated.

“The global pandemic has exposed many vulnerabilities within our society,” Howard said. “The pandemic has shown us that there are disparities in education among communities. Access to technology such as computers and internet are limited and has provided challenges for lowincome families. However, this presents opportunities for communities, corporations, and organizations to come together to help close the gap.”

As for the greatest lesson she learned in 2020, Howard responded: “I’ve learned to appreciate and be thankful for each day God has given me.”

Howard said the greatest hero in her life was her mother.

“She modeled for my siblings and I an impeccable work ethic emphasizing education first,” Howard said.

The councilwoman represents the East Ward of Downingtown Borough.