Heather’s foundation in service began early. A Beacon High School valedictorian, she pursued her passion for learning at Cornell University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. Her academic path sharpened her ability to understand complex systems, think critically, and approach challenges with curiosity and care—skills that have guided her throughout her career in education and youth-focused nonprofits.

Councilmember Heather O'Dell

Heather O'Dell earned a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences from Cornell University.

Councilmember Heather O'Dell - Town of Wappinger

She began her professional journey as an educator, teaching science and math in schools across South Dakota, Arizona, and England. In every classroom, she worked closely with diverse student populations, including English Language Learners, ensuring all students felt supported, capable, and connected. These early experiences cemented her belief that every child deserves access to caring mentors and enriching environments that nurture both confidence and curiosity.

Heather’s impact deepened during more than a decade with Vacamas Programs for Youth, where she served as an education coordinator, after-school program leader, and longtime summer camp staff member. She recruited students from underserved communities, mentored educators, and coordinated academic support and summer opportunities for thousands of children each year. Her work helped bridge gaps between families, schools, and community partners—all in service of expanding opportunity and creating welcoming spaces for young people to grow.

Since 2014, Heather has served as Operations Manager at SCOPE (Summer Camp Opportunities Promote Education), where she plays a pivotal role in delivering camp scholarships to youth nationwide. She oversees grant allocations, donor gift processing, reporting systems, partner communications, and event support—ensuring that resources reach children efficiently, transparently, and with care. Her leadership strengthens SCOPE’s mission of providing life-changing summer camp experiences that build confidence, connection, and long-term success.

Heather currently works as an operations manager at SCOPE (Summer Camp Opportunities Promote Education). She previously worked as an educator teaching science and math in schools across South Dakota, Arizona, and England, and served as an education coordinator, after-school program leader, and summer camp staff member with Vacamas Programs for Youth.

Ward 2 Councilwoman Heather O’Dell represents the southern areas of Wappinger which consists of Chelsea and Swartwoutville hamlets, Cedar Hill, Fleetwood Manor, Osborne Hill Road, Smithtown Road, Meadowwood, Lookout Point, Watch Hill neighborhoods, White Gate and Pavilion complexes, and the southern part of the US Route 9 corridor. Councilwoman O’Dell began serving on the Town Board in 2026.

Wappinger Town Board
The Town of Wappinger is governed by a Town Board consisting of the Town Supervisor and four Councilmembers. The Town Supervisor is the presiding officer of the Town Board. The Board adopts resolutions, ordinances and local laws, and approves the annual budget and tax levy. The four Councilmembers are each elected to represent their ward, 25% of the Town, for a two-year term.

Wappinger Town Board

Heather currently serves as Wappinger's Ward 2 councilwoman. She began serving on the Town Board in 2026; council members are elected to two-year terms.

2026 New York General Election

As of October 26, 2026, Heather O'Dell did not have a website or any information online.

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Heather O'Dell

As of October 26, 2026, Heather O'Dell’s website did not contain information on this issue.