Norman Khumalo, Hopkinton’s town manager, and Estela Shingleton, bank manager for Webster First Federal Credit Union’s Hopkinton branch, were elected to the 495/MetroWest Partnership Board of Directors for terms to begin in 2021.

“We are thrilled to welcome Norman and Estela to our board,” said Jason Palitsch, executive director of the 495/MetroWest Partnership, after the Dec. 2 vote. “Hopkinton is a fast-growing, vibrant community that is home to some of the region’s most important businesses and economic engines. With Norman and Estela joining our board we will benefit from their important perspectives on both Hopkinton’s municipal government and its business community.”

The 495/MetroWest Partnership, headquartered in Westborough and serving 36 cities and towns across the region, is a public-private collaboration with businesses, municipalities and other stakeholders focused on creating an environment that prepares for and cultivates sustainable growth. The partnership focuses on providing coordination, education and advocacy for solutions to regional constraints and limited natural resources. Its board of directors is comprised of representatives of area municipal governments, businesses, environmental organizations, planning agencies, higher education institutions, chambers of commerce and other stakeholders.

“The entire community applauds the selection of Norman and Estela,” stated Cristina Morrissiey, president of the Hopkinton Chamber of Commerce and vice president, area relationship manager for UniBank. “We are confident that they will both be strong advocates for the town’s and region’s economic interests.”

Said Khumalo: “I have always been a strong believer in the power and potential which arise from effective partnerships. The 495/MetroWest Partnership understands how partnerships work and I am pleased to represent Hopkinton on its board of directors.”

Added Shingleton: “I am proud to join a group of regional business government leaders who play an effective and important role in a wide range of issues, all with the goal of strengthening ties between the public and private sectors.”