Outgoing and incoming TTDems leadership together following the passing of the torch. From left: Hans van Mol, Gene Poppel, Sandy Gilson, Tom Dunlap, and Georgee Thevervelil
Tredyffrin Township Democrats gathered on Wednesday, June 17, for a packed and energetic meeting to mark a major transition in the organization’s leadership, as Zone Leader Hans van Mol and Assistant Zone Leader Georgee Thevervelil concluded their terms and officially passed the reins of TTDems to newly elected Zone Leader Sandy Gilson and Assistant Zone Leader Tom Dunlap.
The evening served as both a celebration of TTDems’ accomplishments and an opportunity to reflect on one of the most transformative periods in the organization’s history.
A packed room of committee members and supporters gathered for the 2026 TTDems Reorganization Meeting and leadership transition.
Hans van Mol first assumed leadership of TTDems on January 20, 2021, the day of President Joe Biden’s inauguration, stepping into the role at a time when the organization, like much of the country, was still navigating the challenges of the COVID era. In June 2022, Georgee Thevervelil joined the leadership team as Assistant Zone Leader, forming a partnership that would help guide TTDems through a period of growth, modernization, and historic electoral success.
Together, van Mol and Thevervelil led TTDems out of the pandemic era and back into active, in-person organizing and community engagement. They oversaw a period of renewed energy, stronger grassroots organizing, and growing political influence across Tredyffrin Township. Under their leadership, TTDems evolved into a more modern, transparent, and professional political organization, with a renewed focus on its core mission: empowering committee people, recruiting strong Democratic candidates, building grassroots infrastructure, and winning elections.
Outgoing TTDems leadership: Zone Leader Hans van Mol and Assistant Zone Leader Georgee Thevervelil, whose partnership helped guide the organization through a transformative era of growth, renewal, and historic Democratic victories.
At the same time, van Mol and Thevervelil worked to bring new energy and younger voices into the party, investing in the next generation of Democratic leadership and helping ensure the organization remained positioned for long-term success. This commitment to growth and renewal strengthened TTDems’ standing not only within Tredyffrin Township, but across Chester County Democratic politics and throughout the broader Pennsylvania Democratic Party. Throughout their tenure, TTDems stood firm against MAGA extremism, including local Moms for Liberty-aligned attacks on public education and community values. In response, the organization expanded its presence, deepened voter engagement, and further established itself as a trusted and respected voice in the community.
Outgoing Zone Leader Hans van Mol is honored by longtime leader Michele Burger in recognition of his years of leadership and service to the organization.
Perhaps the defining achievement of this era was completing Tredyffrin’s political transformation. For generations, Republicans held power in township government and maintained a foothold on local boards. During van Mol and Thevervelil’s tenure, Democrats completed the work of sweeping the GOP entirely out of elected office in Tredyffrin. Today, Republicans hold no seats on any elected board in the township, marking a historic shift in local political power and cementing Tredyffrin as a Democratic stronghold.
“None of this happened by accident. It was built by people who believed in the future of this township and put in the work to make it happen.”
– Hans van Mol
In a symbolic passing of the torch, outgoing Zone Leader Hans van Mol presents flowers to incoming Zone Leader Sandy Gilson as TTDems enters its next chapter.
TTDems extends its deepest gratitude to Hans and Georgee for their leadership, service, and commitment in helping shape the organization into the powerhouse it is today. Their stewardship strengthened the foundation for continued Democratic success and ensured that TTDems remains well-positioned for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
As the organization turns the page, members welcomed Sandy Gilson and Tom Dunlap into leadership with enthusiasm and optimism. With a strong foundation in place and a united Democratic community behind them, TTDems looks forward to continuing its mission of electing Democrats, advancing Democratic values, and serving the residents of Tredyffrin Township.
The new TTDems leadership team: Gene Poppel, Sandy Gilson, Tom Dunlap (missing: Robin Holloway)
The passing of the torch marks the close of one chapter and the beginning of another. Leadership may change, but the work continues.
Congratulations to our new leadership team, and thank you to everyone who has been part of TTDems’ journey.
