Stephen Acosta is a fifth-generation Dedhamite who believes there is no challenge too large to tackle and no opportunity too small for our town to pursue. Stephen was elected to the Dedham School Committee in 2023, currently serving as Chair, and is seeking election to the Dedham Select Board in this April’s election. 

Stephen brings a thoughtful approach to public service, striving towards decisions that are informed, practical, and capable of being sustained. He isn’t afraid to try new things, and he always works to make sure different points of views and experiences are considered.

A proud graduate of Dedham Public Schools, Stephen knows firsthand the strength of the Dedham community, and the pride and passion that our residents share, because those same values were instilled in him growing up here. Stephen wants to make sure that Dedham continues to be a diverse community, welcoming and accessible to everyone, including those who grew up here, young families, seniors, and locally-owned small businesses.

Stephen works in the Massachusetts State Senate, a position that affords him a unique look at different communities and their approaches to local governing. Stephen knows that as great as the Dedham community is, there are new approaches to consider to ensure that the best services are being delivered to residents at a price they can afford. Exposure to the best practices of other communities and the statewide picture on issues has proven to be a benefit to Stephen’s service on the School Committee.

In addition to the State Senate and Dedham School Committee, Stephen volunteers on the boards of the Dedham Education Foundation and the Dedham High School Alumni Association, organizations that help invest in the success of the next generation. He and his wife, Sophie, also a DHS graduate, live just outside of Dedham Square.