The Council on Aging has been without a formal director since February, but Amy DiPietro will step into the new role starting November 7.

DiPietro has grown with the Council on Aging for the past five years. She started as its outreach coordinator in 2011, became the director of its Adult Social Day program in 2014, and has helped run the facility since the former director left.

As director, DiPietro will oversee all aspects of the CoA, but with only two other full-time staff and two part-timers (apart from the 16-staffer Social Day program), it’s a very hands on position, she explained after serving breakfast to visitors.

“We still have the same staff — friendly, warm, caring. Everyone is committed to serving the senior population,” said DiPietro.

DiPietro said she is still getting her bearings on the new position, but some rough ideas include expanding programming hours and fitness activities to reach the baby boomer generation.

"We're ready to take it to the next level," she said at the October 31 Select Board meeting, adding that she has already started working with state agencies and acquiring private grants. “It’s my intention to collaborate more with outside agencies.”

DiPietro said next week’s board meeting will produce a more solid plan for moving forward.

“I’m focused on the future, not the past. The reputation and work done here at the Council on Aging speaks for itself,” she said.

DiPietro was well-received by Select Board members at an interview on October 31.

"You have a great opportunity here," said Select Board Chair Stanley Mickelson. "You have a leg up on it. You've been here awhile."

DiPietro’s nomination followed failed contract negotiations with Elizabeth Connell in early October. Prior to that, director Heather Sylvia resigned resigned on January 28, after serving just five months in her position. She cited a "hostile and unmanageable" work environment in her resignation letter.