The New England Center for Children^® (NECC^®), a global leader in autism education and research, announced the election of Scott Schmadeke, executive vice president and chief operations officer of BJ’s Wholesale Club to join the nonprofit’s Board of Directors.

Schmadeke brings a wealth of experience in retail leadership and oversight which he honed over 32 years in the industry. With a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from the University of Phoenix, Schmadeke rose through the ranks at Safeway, then Albertson’s, before landing at BJ’s corporate headquarters in Marlborough, MA. At BJs, he oversees operations, supply chain, asset protection, and safety for the company’s 257 clubs throughout the country.

“We are thrilled to welcome Scott to our Board of Directors,” said NECC CEO Jessica Sassi, PhD, BCBA-D, LABA. “His executive experience, leadership, and business insight—combined with BJ’s strong tradition of supporting local communities—align seamlessly with NECC’s mission and the complexity of our organization.”

Schmadeke first learned about the impressive outcomes NECC helps children with autism achieve through a friend – Kevin Coleman, vice president of Ross Mortgage Company who sits on NECC’s President’s Council. They attended NECC’s Children of Promise Gala, held every November at the InterContinental in Boston, and Schmadeke was inspired to get involved. In 2021, he joined the President’s Council himself, where he participated in (and led) projects aimed at increasing event sponsorships, growing awareness, and bringing young professionals to volunteer personally and philanthropically.  

Schmadeke has already proven himself to be a thoughtful contributor and supporter and now will help lead the organization into its 51^st year.