By: Rich Bergeron
Michael Graham, a former English professor at Proctor Academy and later a selectman in Haverhill, New Hampshire, has been implicated in serious abuse allegations spanning back decades. Recent investigations have brought to light substantiated claims of sexual misconduct during his tenure at Proctor Academy in the 1980s, raising even more questions about the unethical behavior he exhibited in his subsequent role in municipal governance.
Allegations at Proctor Academy
An independent investigation commissioned by Proctor Academy revealed that Michael Graham was among seven former faculty members found to have engaged in sexual misconduct with students. Specifically, the investigation substantiated an allegation that Graham drugged and sexually assaulted at least one female student. The report also indicated that Graham, along with other staff members, formed inappropriate relationships with current or recently graduated students during his tenure there as a professor. Graham left Proctor in 1983, receiving a positive letter from the then-Head of School upon his departure. He declined to participate in the investigation and could not be reached for comment.
Graham was the only alleged abuser officially named in the investigation of the misconduct at Proctor Academy, reflecting the weight of the evidence against him.
Transition to Public Office
Following his departure from Proctor Academy, Graham entered public service, eventually becoming a selectman in Haverhill, New Hampshire for two separate stints. His latest tenure on the selectboard has been marked by controversy, including involvement in complex legal disputes outlined extensively in prior articles here.
In 2022, Graham contacted legal counsel from Donahue, Tucker, and Ciandella regarding the representation of Haverhill in matters related to the Woodsville Fire District and other municipal issues. Graham and another board member recruited an attorney named Christopher Hawkins to accomplish the termination of then-Town Manager Brigitte Codling. Hawkins was also hired to help pressure the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) to act more favorably toward the Woodsville district where Graham lives. Hawkins had previously worked with current Woodsville legal representative Lynette Macomber on litigation filed on behalf of Woodsville with the Town of Haverhill as a defendant.
Legal and Ethical Concerns
Graham's role in Haverhill's municipal affairs has been scrutinized, particularly concerning the town's legal disputes and governance challenges. In early 2025, he was named as a defendant in a federal lawsuit filed by Codling and her husband, alleging misconduct and seeking substantial damages.
Implications and Reflections
The revelations about Graham's past and his subsequent role in public office underscore the importance of thorough vetting processes for individuals in positions of authority. They also highlight the potential long-term impacts of unaddressed misconduct and the necessity for transparency and accountability in both educational and governmental institutions.
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