Daniel Garcia is the Town’s New Director of Senior Services

Source: amherstma.gov

Town Manager Paul Bockelman has announced that Daniel Garcia as the town’s new Director of Senior Services. The appointment was reviewed and approved by the Town Council at their meeting on June 15. Garcia is expected to start in this new role on July 20. 

Garcia brings more than two decades of experience in education, community engagement, and human services leadership to the role. Throughout his career, he has focused on helping individuals access resources, overcome barriers, and achieve their goals while building partnerships that strengthen communities 

Born and raised in Southern California, Garcia spent 33 years in Houston, Texas before relocating to Western Massachusetts in August 2025 with his wife, Angela Cardenas, and their two children. 

Garcia currently serves as Program Manager for Amherst’s Community Responders for Equity, Safety, and Service (CRESS) Department, where he has managed a major grant and developed community outreach initiatives, strategic partnerships, and supported residents through trauma-informed and equity-centered services. Prior to joining the Town of Amherst, Garcia spent more than 20 years in higher education leadership, directing federally funded student success programs and helping first-generation college students (like himself) navigate pathways to academic achievement. 

“Daniel has a strong work history in higher education and social services that is directly transferable to the work he will be doing with the town’s seniors,” said Town Manager Paul Bockelman. “In his time working for the town, I have observed Daniel quickly distinguish himself as a leader, bridge-builder, and dynamic member of a diverse team.” 

As Director of Senior Services, Garcia will oversee programs and services designed to support Amherst’s older adults and ensure the Senior Center remains a welcoming and inclusive community hub. His priorities include expanding programming for active and younger seniors; strengthening partnerships with organizations such as the Council on Aging, Friends of the Senior Center, and Amherst Neighbors; addressing food insecurity; improving transportation options; and reducing the social isolation that many older adults experience. 

“I am passionate about helping people thrive, building stronger communities, and creating engagement opportunities for seniors,” Garcia said. “My focus as Director will be to work with our talented staff, the Council on Aging, and Friends group to make Amherst a great place to be an older adult while addressing the shared needs of our senior community.” 

Garcia’s commitment to community service and collaboration has already been evident through his work with CRESS. He has helped strengthen partnerships with organizations including the Amherst Survival Center, local faith communities, and regional service providers to improve access to food programs, health resources, social services, and other community supports. 

“Dan has been a compassionate, conscientious, and adaptable member of the CRESS Department, consistently centering people in his work,” said CRESS Director Camille Theriaque. “I look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role as a valued partner.” 

Garcia holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of St. Thomas and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education degree. He is also a recipient of the Houston Business Journal’s Outstanding Diversity Champion Award. His professional and personal commitment to inclusion, community engagement, and service aligns closely with Amherst’s values and vision for supporting older adults. 

 A swearing-in ceremony and reception will be scheduled for a later date, with details to be announced in the coming weeks on the Town’s website.