Press Release: BOS Announce the Retirement for Dr. Dean Shankle, Jr.

December 30, 2024

DR. DEAN SHANKLE, JR ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
Amherst, NH - Dr. Dean Shankle, the Town Administrator of Amherst, New Hampshire, today announced his retirement, effective March 15, 2025. Dr. Shankle has dedicated his 37-year career to public service, serving New Hampshire communities including Hinsdale, Merrimack, Epping, and Hooksett, in addition to Amherst.
Dr. Shankle expressed his gratitude for the Board’s support during his tenure and the many wonderful opportunities he has had in his career of public service tackling difficult issues and achieving goals in the best interests of the town. He extended his high praise for town employees and the many dedicated town volunteers and credited them with providing a high level of service to town residents. Shankle is now looking forward to an active retirement, including doing more of the international training (eight countries so far) he has done during vacations for the last 25 years.
On behalf of the Board of Selectmen, Chair Danielle Pray expressed appreciation to Dr. Shankle for his service and contributions to the Town. “With over six years of service to the Town of Amherst, Dean has a number of significant achievements, and we want to thank him and wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.”
To ensure a smooth transition, Dr. Shankle will assist the Board in hiring his replacement and will prioritize completing several key projects before his departure. The Board will be assisted in the search for a new Town Administrator by Municipal Resources, Inc. Pending the appointment of Dr. Shankle’s replacement, the Board has requested Deborah Bender, currently the town’s Finance Director, also to serve as Acting Town Administrator and assume day-to-day management responsibilities, to ensure continuity of leadership and facilitate a seamless transition period.