Manchester, CONNECTICUT DTC
Current Officers
Mike Pohl, DTC Chair
Manchester DTC Chair Mike Pohl has been involved in Manchester Democratic politics since he was 14 years old. Mike was elected Democratic Town Chair in 2008 and is currently in his 4th term.
Mike’s leadership style is one of melding the knowledge of long time Democratic Town Committee members with the technological know how of our newest members.
When it comes to recommendations for appointments to Manchester Boards and Commissions, Mike has taken an approach of seeking the best possible citizens to serve without regard to party affiliation. Mike believes that at the local level people who are involved genuinely care about their community.
Mike also serves as President of the Cheney Hall Foundation and Executive Director of the Pathfinders Association, Mike is an 8th grade United States History Teacher at Illing Middle School and is grateful for the support of his long time partner David Pelletier.
Maria Cruz, Vice Chair
Dr. Maria W. Cruz is a lifelong advocate for children and families. Dr. Cruz holds degrees from Springfield College (B.S.), Springfield College School of Social Work (M.S.W) and Capella University (Ed.D). She also holds two Post Master’s Certificates in Educational Leadership and Management and Leadership and Accountability.
In 2009, Dr. Cruz was appointed as a member of the Board of Education and was re-elected twice through 2015. In 2023, she retired after 30 years of state service to become Manchester’s first female and first woman of color to serve as their Town Clerk, following the untimely passing of the late Darryl Thames, Sr. In 2025, during her election run for the Town Clerk's seat, she became the first candidate in the history of the Town of Manchester to gain the highest votes.
Dr. Cruz is a longtime advocate for cultural unity and community empowerment. As Founder and CEO of the Manchester Latino Affairs Council (MLAC) a nonprofit organization, she leads initiatives that elevate Latino voices, strengthen civic engagement, and build bridges across Manchester’s diverse communities.
She is the drive in creating MLAC’s first ever Raíces y Futuro Scholarship, to provide postsecondary access to a Latino student in Manchester Public Schools who would otherwise lack the financial means to pursue their educational goals. Its purpose is clear: award a high need Latino student a pathway to a high-quality degree or credential. MLAC also serves as a community resource for the Gentle Love Diaper Pantry, helping families meet essential needs for their children. In addition, MLAC is launching Casa y Comunidad, a housing initiative on September 1, 2026, designed to strengthen housing stability and support families across Manchester.
Dr. Cruz further builds cultural pride and connection through the Multicultural Hispanic Pageant, Mr. and Miss Folklore USA, the Manchester Hispanic Heritage Celebration, and the Three Kings Celebration events that bring families together and celebrate the richness of Latino culture.
Dr. Cruz continues to champion transparency, professionalism, and collaboration ensuring every voice in Manchester is seen, valued, and heard.
Arianna Larson, Elections Vice Chair
Jessee Muñiz Poland, Secretary
Jessee Muñiz-Poland has proudly called Manchester home for more than 30 years. She and her husband raised their two children in town, both of whom are graduates of Manchester High School.
Jessee's commitment to Manchester extends well beyond Town Hall. She has spent decades working alongside grassroots organizations and community partners to connect individuals and families with food, housing, employment opportunities, and other essential resources. Her work has consistently centered on breaking down barriers, strengthening communities, and advocating for those whose voices are too often overlooked.
Jessee believes public service begins with listening. She remains committed to bringing people together, strengthening Manchester's neighborhoods, and ensuring that town government is accessible, responsive, and accountable to the people it serves.
Michael A. Stebe, Treasurer
Mike has been Treasurer of the Manchester Democrats since 2011 and is a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Mike has taken part as a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals, Cheney National Historic District Commission and is a past President of the Spruce Street Block Watch. Mike has served as the Executive Assistant to Attorney General Dick Blumenthal and a staff member to the campaign of Congressman Joe Courtney.
Mike is employed by the State of Connecticut and is a member of AFSCME Council 4, Local 714.