Women Leaders of Melrose
Written and Photographed by Nancy Clover
Melrose is fortunate to have strong, intelligent women shaping our community through leadership and public service. These dedicated leaders bring experience, passion, and a commitment to progress.
Kate Lipper-Garabedian - Represents the 32nd Middlesex district in the MA House of Representatives.
After graduating from Harvard Law School, she worked as a judicial clerk in the federal courts and as a consultant for states, school districts, universities, and nonprofit organizations on efforts to improve outcomes for children and students. Before joining the General Court, Kate served as the Chief Legal Counsel at the MA Executive Office of Education and was a City Councilor-at-Large in Melrose.
Mayor Jen Grigoraitis – Sworn in on January 8, 2024, she is the first female elected mayor of Melrose. She previously served on the City Council (2020-2024), including two terms as City Council President, and brings a wealth of experience in public service and community advocacy.
Lauren Grymek – As Chief of Staff in the Mayor’s Office, Lauren plays a key role in supporting the mayor’s administrative and strategic initiatives, helping drive effective governance.
Leila Migliorelli – City Council President and Councilor-at-Large, Leila made history as the first woman of color to hold this position in Melrose. Re-elected in January 2025, she is currently serving her third term on the City Council.
Maya Jamaleddine – Councilor-at-Large, working to represent the voices and concerns of all Melrose residents.
Manjula Karamcheti – Ward 1 Councilor, advocating for the interests of her district and contributing to citywide policymaking.
Kimberly Vandiver – Ward 5 Councilor, dedicated to addressing community needs and ensuring effective representation.
Cal M. Finocchiaro – Ward 6 Councilor, committed to serving the residents of her ward and strengthening Melrose’s future.
I would be remiss if I did not mention Gail Infurna.
Gail was Ward 5 Alderman from 1997 to 2018. The Board of Aldermen (now the City Council) elected her to serve as President in January 2018, and she became Mayor on February 5, 2018, when Mayor Rob Dolan vacated the seat. Mayor Infurna is the first woman to serve as Mayor of Melrose. She left office in 2019, after 22 years of public service.
These women are shaping the future of Melrose with their leadership, vision, and dedication. Thank you for your commitment to Melrose.
