Cheena R.G. Edwards, an Intensive Instruction Program (IIP) Rehabilitation Counselor on Cohort C, has worked at NECC since 2018. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight by a colleague, “because she jumped right into Cohort C when she transferred teams last fall, connecting with all the students and her coworkers. She is so intentional with the students’ programming and always assists other teachers. Cheena is an amazing and organized case manager. She does all of this with so much humility and grace.” 

How long have you worked for NECC? 

I started my NECC journey at The Mohamed bin Rashid Center for Special Education (MRC-NECC), Abu Dhabi, in 2018, then moved to NECC, Southborough, MA, in 2022. 

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is seeing the excitement in my students’ eyes when they finally accomplish something that once seemed challenging for them. There’s nothing quite like witnessing that moment when uncertainty transforms into confidence and gratitude; it truly fills me with joy. To see the individuals I serve smile with their eyes and know I’ve played a part in making a positive, lasting difference in their lives is incredibly rewarding. 

Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?

I was initially inspired to work in special education because my mother is a retired special education teacher. She used to bring me along to her school events, and I have such fond memories of making friends with her students. I always found my mom’s students to be creative, sweet, kind, and refreshingly honest about their feelings, qualities I admire so much in a person. Those early experiences really showed me the beauty of sincerity and kindness, and I knew I wanted to make a difference in the lives of this population, too. 

Why NECC?

In 2013, I was fortunate to start working for a nonprofit organization that partnered with NECC as their consultant. That’s where I met Michelle Chioccola and Dr. Daniel Gould from NECC, Southborough, both passionate leaders and mentors who helped shape NECC’s presence in Abu Dhabi. I learned so much from them, from preparing stimuli and collecting data to interpreting results, implementing ethical treatment protocols, and keeping integrity. NECC’s reputation as a global leader in autism research and education opened so many opportunities for me, and I’m truly grateful for the experience. 

Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC? If so, how has it affected your teaching style?

The teacher training I received at NECC that really made a difference for me was the CALM-P and CALM-V training. Before my years of training at NECC Abu Dhabi, I honestly had no idea how to handle or defuse escalating situations. Learning about CALM-V, in particular, is so helpful because it emphasizes validating and valuing a person’s emotional state in a complex situation. It’s amazing how much it helps to make someone feel truly understood and safe. This training has been such a valuable part of my journey as an educator. 

What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?

True story: I once decided to trek up Mount Pilatus in Switzerland, which stands at 6,982ft, wearing heels! And I actually made it all the way to the highest point. 

Who is someone you look up to?

I look to Jesus Christ as a source of guidance and inspiration in my life. He is my savior. 

What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?

My primary aim is to live well, with purpose. Committing oneself to what is most important in life (faith, family, community) provides a true sense of fulfillment.