Udo Dike, a rehabilitation counselor for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Newcastle Road residential team, was nominated for Staff Spotlight by a colleague because she is “a supportive teammate, an excellent leader when on duty, and someone with a heart that truly understands others.”

How long have you worked for NECC?

I have worked at NECC for 1 year and 7 months. I am also a backup core shift manager on Newcastle Road.  

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is being a job coach for the boys on the team.

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

I chose this career because I genuinely love teaching and providing support and care. 

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

Yes, I am in my second year of Simmons University master’s degree program. It has helped me in understanding the planning and procedure behind IEPs and has strengthened my dedication to ensuring procedural integrity in teaching.

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

Something they might not know is that I love to crochet!

Who is someone you look up to?

I look up to my dad!

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

“Education is what survives when what has been learnt has been forgotten.”  – B.F. Skinner