To Katie Dupont, a successful election process is one where voters have access to accurate information and voter turnout is strong.

As the new town clerk, Dupont will be administering Swampscott elections in town in just two months starting with the Town Election on April 28. Swampscott’s local vote, though, won’t be her first. In 2020, Dupont helped out in Peabody as a town intern.

“My appreciation for the work grew, and it became a career goal of mine to be a clerk for a town or city,” said Dupont, who most recently served as assistant town clerk in Beverly.

In her first three weeks in Swampscott, Dupont has focused on getting to know people and creating a welcoming environment at town hall. Preparations are underway for April’s election as candidates have started to take out nomination papers. Voting machines and paper ballots are starting to be readied for action.

“I want the town to know that this is an open office,” said Dupont. “We have an open door and anyone can come by at any time to ask questions. I don’t want anyone to be afraid to pick up the phone and ask anything, whether it’s little or complex.”

The town clerk is the primary agent responsible for serving the public through the provision of public records, vital statistics and general information, reads the position’s mission statement. Dupont said the role of town clerk is slightly different in every town. Right now, she said she is learning exactly what the role entails and how the community interacts with its town clerk.

One of Dupont’s goals in her new role is to ensure the community is engaged with the election process through outreach and social media.

“It’s rewarding knowing that we have an impact on people’s lives,” said Dupont.

The feeling of successfully administering an election stuck with her. Dupont said clerks aim for as big of a turnout as possible because it means the voting process was accessible.

“Behind the scenes, success also means well trained staff, tested equipment, and strict adherence to state law and established procedures,” said Dupont. “When voters can participate confidently and the community trusts the integrity of the results, that’s the best measure of success.”

Attention to detail, organization and a strong commitment to accuracy are keys to success in the position, according to Dupont.

“I focus on staying organized, meeting deadlines, and communicating clearly so expectations and information are consistent,” she said.

Outside of the office, Dupont is often hanging out with her dog, Fred, a mix of a German pointer and Pitbull. She also enjoys creative activities, like painting.