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Ahmet Corapcioglu of Shaker Road is running for Select Board

by Ahmet Corapcioglu  ·   Friday, March 7, 2025

I am honored to announce my candidacy for the Select Board. My wife Collen and I have been married for 38 years and raised three wonderful children. We moved to Harvard in 2022 to be near our youngest. I am running because I love this community—its values, its people, and what it stands for.

Since moving here, I’ve taken time to understand the challenges and opportunities our town faces. Harvard thrives on inclusivity, collaboration, and respect, and as it evolves, we need leadership that reflects and celebrates our diverse community. With 45% of our population being women and 20% from minority backgrounds, we must elect leaders who represent and respect everyone. I bring a fresh perspective and a commitment to ensuring every resident has a voice in shaping Harvard’s future.

With 35-plus years in business, technology, and education, I’ve tackled complex challenges, built high-performing teams, and driven innovation. As a founder and CTO/COO, I’ve led global organizations, managed large budgets, and delivered results. These experiences enable me to adapt quickly, make data-driven decisions, collaborate effectively, and ensure financial responsibility—all critical for responsible governance.

I am also an academic leader who built and led a graduate program in computer information systems, preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving world. My passion for education reinforces my commitment to ensuring Harvard’s schools have the resources needed to provide exceptional learning opportunities.

Public service has always been important to me. As a former Turkish naval officer, I learned the importance of honesty, teamwork, strategic thinking, and service. I believe in listening, respecting all perspectives, and finding common ground.

As a Select Board member, my priorities will include:

  • Transparent, inclusive leadership that celebrates Harvard’s diversity
  • Balanced and financially responsible development that preserves Harvard’s rural character
  • An expedited, fact-based decision-making process on Devens’ future
  • Support for schools to maintain educational excellence
  • Collaboration with all town departments.

I am eager to use my skills to serve Harvard and would be honored to earn your vote. I look forward to listening (ahmetkc79@gmail.com), learning, and working together for Harvard’s future.

Ahmet Corapcioglu
Shaker Road

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