Celebrating Latino Excellence on Beacon Hill: Paulo DeOliveira Honored at the Massachusetts State House

Boston— In a vibrant and musical celebration of outstanding individuals from the latino community in Massachusetts, Latino Excellence on the Hill returned to the State House this week to recognize distinguished Latino leaders from across the state. Nominated by State Representative Thomas Moakley, Paulo DeOliveira - the Register of Deeds for the County of Dukes County - is recognized for his dedication to public service and innovative leadership, which continue to shape the Vineyard and the broader Commonwealth.

Born in Brazil and a resident of Martha’s Vineyard since 2006, DeOliveira has spent nearly two decades immersed in public life. Since 2008, he has served as a volunteer firefighter with the Edgartown Fire Department and was elected to the Edgartown Financial Advisory Committee in 2015. In 2016, he was elected Register of Deeds, where he has modernized the Registry through innovative system upgrades that have made services more efficient, convenient, and accessible for the public and professionals alike. “A hard worker with a passion for public service, Paulo is an example to the entire Martha’s Vineyard Community”, said Representative Thomas Moakley.

His leadership has earned him recognition well beyond the island: Mr. DeOliveira was recently appointed President of the Massachusetts Registers and Assistant Registers of Deeds Association, a testament to his effectiveness at improving systems that preserve public records and local history across the state. 

Beyond his duties at the Registry of Deeds, Paulo has remained deeply connected to his community, serving on a wide range of local boards and initiatives. His recent service includes the Edgartown Master Plan Committee, Board of Trustees for Martha's Vineyard Hospital and Windemere Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, You’ve Got a Friend, and as a Corporator for Martha’s Vineyard Bank. He was also featured in Martha’s Vineyard Magazine’s The Next Wave article, highlighting a new generation of leaders committed to the island’s future.

Hosted annually, Latino Excellence on the Hill shines a spotlight on leaders from Latino communities across Massachusetts who are making powerful contributions in government, education, healthcare, business, and beyond. The event brought together lawmakers, advocates, and community members to honor this year's honorees and to reflect on the ongoing work toward equity and representation. 

As the Latino population continues to grow and shape the fabric of Massachusetts, leaders like Paulo DeOliveira are setting a standard for public service rooted in innovation, compassion, and integrity.