To The Arc of Massachusetts Community:
I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Maura Sullivan, MPA, as the new Chief Executive Officer of The Arc of Massachusetts. On November 2, Maura will succeed Leo Sarkissian, who is retiring after an impressive 33 years of dedicated service. In a historic moment, Maura becomes the first parent of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to lead The Arc since its first Director, Pearl Birnbaum Hurwitz, in 1954.
Maura Sullivan has been a dynamic force within The Arc of Massachusetts for over a decade, leading Government Affairs and serving as the Director of Operation House Call, the nationally recognized training program that equips students in medical, nursing, and allied health professions across Massachusetts with the skills and understanding needed to care for individuals with IDD and autism.
Maura is a well-respected advocate, whose work has led to significant legislative achievements, including the passage of Nicky’s Law, Police Training in Autism, and the continued success of Operation House Call. At the State House, Maura has been instrumental in securing increased funding for the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) budget, the direct support workforce, and MassHealth.
Beyond her legislative successes, Maura actively contributes to numerous state and national advisory boards and commissions focused on transition age youth with IDD and autism. She collaborates with prestigious institutions such as Drexel University, the Institute for Exceptional Care, and Harvard Medical School. Her involvement extends to the Massachusetts Governor’s Autism Commission for Healthcare and the Massachusetts Initiative to Improve Healthcare Transitions. In addition, Maura directs the policy and advocacy of Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts.
A former LEND Fellow, Maura holds a master’s degree in public administration from Suffolk University. She is also a devoted mother of three, including two transition-age sons who have autism. Her personal and professional experiences uniquely position her to lead The Arc of Massachusetts into a new era.
The Board of Directors voted unanimously to appoint Maura, which reflects our immense confidence in her leadership abilities, vision for The Arc, and proven track record. We could not be more excited about the future of The Arc under her guidance and look forward to the continued growth and success of our organization.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Leo for his tireless dedication, commitment, and effectiveness and for all that he has done for people with IDD and autism and their families.
Please join me and the Board in congratulating Maura!
Sincerely,
Janet Sweeney Rico, Ph.D.
President
