Mary Jo Ondrechen » Directory

Candidate Statement

My name is Mary Jo Ondrechen and I am running for the Board of Health in Hopkinton. My decision to run was catalyzed by my concern about contaminants in the town water supply. I believe that my experience and expertise can help to contribute to solutions that ensure a safe, clean water supply. We also need to plan so that we are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to the next public health emergency. I am also concerned about the lingering mental health effects of the pandemic, particularly on our young people.

I earned a doctoral degree in Chemistry from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. Currently I serve as Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Northeastern University in Boston. The research group that I lead now consists of seven doctoral students, three Masters students, five undergraduates, and a Visiting Faculty Researcher from the University of Illinois Chicago. Our current and recent research endeavors span a variety of biomedical problems, including COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

Previously I have consulted for the Department of Energy on technologies to clean up toxic waste in the environment. I have played active roles in the Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council (ITRC) to evaluate innovative technologies for the remediation of environmental contaminants and to promote the regulatory acceptance of innovative technologies that prove to be effective.

I ask for your vote on Monday May 20th at the Hopkinton Middle School.