WALTHAM, Mass. (March 17, 2026) – The Arc of Massachusetts, a leading advocacy organization for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including autism, today announced the appointment of Audrey Falk as the organization’s first chief operating officer. In this role, Falk will oversee the organization’s operational priorities and strengthen relationships with the statewide network of The Arc’s chapters.
“Audrey’s career has long reflected a commitment to building inclusive communities and strengthening organizations that support individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Maura Sullivan, CEO of The Arc of Massachusetts. “We are excited to welcome her to this role and to have her leadership help guide our work in the Commonwealth.”
Falk returns to The Arc community with more than 25 years of experience in leadership, outreach, and education in the higher education and nonprofit sectors. Early in her career, Falk spent five years at Lifeworks in Westwood (then known as The Arc of South Norfolk), where she served as the founding director of the Family Autism Center and later managed the family support program, including respite services, intensive family support, and advocacy initiatives.
She has an extensive background in community engagement, including past work as the executive director of the Columbia Point Community Partnership in Dorchester, a university-community partnership launched by UMass Boston. For the past 15 years, she served as the program director for a master’s program focused on nonprofit management and community engagement at Merrimack College, where she recruited and managed student fellowship sites in schools, nonprofits, and colleges and universities.
“The Arc of Massachusetts enhances the lives of people with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities and strengthens families and communities through advocacy, education, and resources in collaboration with The Arc chapters, staff, and leadership,” said Falk. “I am eager to provide guidance and direction to elevate, deepen, and sustain this transformative work.”
Falk has a doctorate in education from Boston University, a master’s degree from Harvard University, and dual bachelor’s degrees from Boston University. She currently is a co-chair of the Parent and Community Education and Involvement Advisory Council of the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.
About The Arc of Massachusetts
The Arc of Massachusetts (The Arc) is a statewide organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. Through advocacy, education, and outreach, The Arc works to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives and participate fully in their communities. Visit www.thearcofmass.org to learn more.
