Remarks After 2024 Oath of Office

Bio

Dean, a proud first-generation Greek-American, is Maplewood’s first openly LGBT representative for the Township Committee. Dean moved from Manhattan with his partner, George Forbes, and together they’ve fallen in love with the town’s unique charm and vibrant community.

Dean’s roots trace back to the working-class neighborhoods of 1970s downtown Philadelphia. Raised by immigrant parents who fled poverty and political turmoil in Greece, he grew up learning the value of hard work and community. His parents opened a diner where Dean and his brother worked, giving them a firsthand understanding of the importance of customer service and business operations. This early experience shaped his lifelong commitment to advocating for community engagement and support for local businesses.

A dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion, Dean has a robust history of community engagement, both in his previous home of New York City and here in Maplewood. He served on various boards and worked with local officials to address key issues including pedestrian safety, affordable housing, and promoting small businesses. In Maplewood, he is actively involved with the Maplewood Library Foundation, the South Orange/Maplewood Community Coalition on Race, and the Maplewood Green Team, among others.

Dean's passion for equality and civil rights is equally evident in his advocacy work for marriage equality and against conversion therapy. As a former Co-Director of Legal Affairs for Marriage Equality USA, he played a crucial role in advocating for LGBT rights at the national level. He has also worked with organizations like Lambda Legal and New York State officials to protect and advance LGBT civil rights.

In addition to his advocacy work, Dean has a strong background in business, finance, and law. He represented JPMorgan Chase on Wall Street, worked as a Managing Director and Executive Recruiter, and served as an attorney for the Public Defender’s office, where he gained firsthand insight into the criminal justice system.

As a committed member of the Maplewood Township Committee, Dean is focused on tackling key issues such as affordable housing, public safety, and school equity. His approach to governance emphasizes collaboration, consensus-building, and working directly with stakeholders to craft equitable solutions. Dean is particularly committed to creating better policies for senior citizens, increasing public safety, and ensuring that Maplewood’s growth benefits all residents.

Dean’s leadership is grounded in his belief in unity and community. He is dedicated to preserving Maplewood’s rich diversity and ensuring that all voices are heard in the process of building a brighter, more inclusive future. His vision for Maplewood is one where every resident feels safe, valued, and engaged in the town’s governance, and where collective action fosters positive change for everyone.

With his deep roots in advocacy, legal expertise, and business acumen, Dean is committed to making Maplewood a place where all can thrive. He is excited to work alongside the community, fellow elected officials, and residents to create a Maplewood that is stronger, more equitable, and full of opportunity.