This summer, NECC’s ITT students had the opportunity to explore more of their community — including taking a hike, blueberry picking, and an ice cream trip — thanks to an initiative developed by the team to increase student opportunities for academic and social enrichment.
The spirit of community and celebration was palpable on August 13 as the NECC Special Olympics Track and Field event took place at Marlborough High School. This marked a significant return to local competition after a hiatus, bringing back the excitement and camaraderie that defines the Special Olympics.
For ten weeks over the summer, 60 interns from 36 colleges and universities nationwide received hands-on learning and training through NECC’s award-winning programs. For two of NECC’s interns, this summer helped them realize the potential the field of autism education holds.
Linda Donahue’s journey with NECC spans over three decades, during which she has become a cornerstone of the agency. With a calm demeanor, a friendly personality, and an unwavering commitment to the mission of NECC, Donahue has left an indelible mark on the countless students and fellow staff whose lives she has touched.
When Miriam Ramirez-Garceau came to Massachusetts from her home in El Salvador in 2019, she arrived intending to enroll in a program to learn more about special education and working with children with autism. It didn’t take her long before she found her place at NECC.
Christmas came early for NECC students when the Solomon Pond Mall in Marlborough donated a generous shopping spree, which was used to purchase winter clothes and jackets for our NECC students.
On November 10, 2023, the NECC community celebrated the annual Children of Promise Gala, shining a spotlight on its robust research program and raising more than $1.23 million.
Helen Hedman, MSEd, would do anything for her students. Including running 26.2 miles while raising money as a member of NECC’s Boston Marathon team.
In just three years, BJ’s Wholesale Club has become a valuable community partner. In addition to sponsoring events, BJ’s has donated goods and supplies, pumpkins for the decorating contest at Halloween, literacy kits for students, and is one of NECC’s newest vocational partners.
As a vocational specialist, Julie LeBlanc, MS, BCBA, LABA is responsible for developing and overseeing job opportunities within NECC and in the local community, as well as working with students and their teams to determine the best vocational work for them.
