Dan Fitzmaurice
First Selectman
Dan and his wife Sarah are raising two wonderful children who benefit firsthand from the outstanding education provided by Orange’s elementary and middle schools. With a career spanning leadership in public policy, education, nonprofits, and the arts, Dan focuses on solving problems and helping people succeed and thrive. In fact, he's currently leading the charge to get a child tax credit law passed in Connecticut! Stay tuned for more on this.
Dan’s happy to chat, take a walk, or grab a coffee with you to discuss Orange - your concerns, ideas, or what you love about our town.
Q&A
Why did you step up to run this year? I'm a problem solver, not a politician, and I want my kids see what it looks like when neighbors come together to protect and improve our community.
What is one recent improvement in town that you love? Composting at the transfer station.
What's one quote that inspires you? "Hope has never trickled down. It has always sprung up." (Studs Terkel)
What book, TV show, or movie are you recommending? I couldn't put down Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson and we couldn't stop laughing at The Four Seasons on Netflix.
What recipe do you make over and over again right now? King Arthur Flour's Deep-Dark Fudgy Brownies.
Orange Favorites
What’s one thing you love most about living here? Fantastic schools.
What’s your favorite local spot? Jesse's Toys - there's no better toy store in the world.
What’s one way you like to stay connected with neighbors? Taking an after-dinner walk anytime the weather is warm enough.
What’s your favorite town event? Tractor parade - hands down!
If a friend was visiting Orange for the first time, where’s the first place you’d take them? Racebrook Tract because it's dog friendly and easy for all ages and abilities.
Experience & Education
United Way of Connecticut — Director of Advocacy (Since 2024)
Orange Government Access Television — Committee Member (Since 2024)
Americans for the Arts — Chief of Staff (2022-2023)
Arts Council of Greater New Haven — Executive Director (2017-2022)
Community Leadership Program — Participant & Fellow (2016-2022)
Connecticut Arts Alliance — Board of Directors (2017-2020)
NHV Innovation Collaborative — Board of Directors (2017-2020)
Sustainable CT — Panelist (2017-2019)
Creative Arts Workshop — Executive Director (2015-2017)
Elm Shakespeare Company — Managing Director (2013-2015)
University of Massachusetts Amherst — Arts Management (2013-2014)
Pianist & Music Teacher (2004-2013)
Music Studio on Harrison Hill — Founder (2010-2013)
Bike and Build — Participant (2009)
Audubon Arts — Counselor (2006-2008)
Temple University — Bachelor of Music (2004-2008)
Bayview Beach — Lifeguard (2003-2006)
Fairfield College Preparatory School (2001-2005)
St. Mary's School (1991-2005)
