Berkshire County Arc Executive and Leadership Team

Maryann Hyatt, the Chief Executive Officer at Berkshire County Arc, directs the overarching strategic vision for all human services initiatives. Overseeing the mission to support individuals with developmental disabilities, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between community-based programs and organizational goals. This leadership role involves managing relationships with stakeholders across Massachusetts to expand access to residential supports and employment services. By championing self-advocacy programs, Maryann Hyatt drives the commitment to independence for the 350 individuals served annually. The Chief Executive Officer maintains rigorous standards for care, ensuring that every program reflects the core values of respect and dignity. Through constant evaluation of service delivery models, the Chief Executive Officer optimizes resource allocation to sustain long-term operational health. Hyatt secures the future of the organization by navigating complex regulatory landscapes while maintaining a focus on the specific needs of the community.

Blanca Durant, the Chief Financial Officer at Berkshire County Arc, governs the fiscal health and long-term sustainability of the non-profit organization. Overseeing budget development and financial reporting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources remain available for essential human services and residential programs. This leadership role involves managing tax-exempt status compliance and optimizing funding streams to support the expansion of employment services. By analyzing financial data, Blanca Durant provides the insights necessary for the Board to make informed decisions regarding capital investments and program growth. The Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency in all fiscal operations, upholding the trust of donors and community partners. Durant implements robust financial controls to mitigate risk, allowing the organization to focus on its mission of serving individuals with developmental disabilities. Through strategic financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to maintain high-quality care across all regional locations.

Sonja Haecker, the Chief Operating Officer at Berkshire County Arc, manages the daily execution of residential supports and day programs. Overseeing the operations of 30 group homes, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that facility standards meet the highest levels of safety and quality for individuals with brain injuries. This leadership role involves coordinating logistics across Berkshire and Hampden counties to maintain seamless service delivery. By streamlining internal processes, Sonja Haecker improves the efficiency of community-based support systems. The Chief Operating Officer collaborates with department heads to implement best practices in care management, directly impacting the daily lives of those served. Haecker monitors operational metrics to identify areas for improvement, ensuring that the organization remains responsive to evolving client needs. Through meticulous oversight of regional facilities, the Chief Operating Officer guarantees that the mission of fostering independence remains the primary focus of all operational activities.

Kristi Nastars, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Berkshire County Arc, directs the recruitment, training, and retention of the highly skilled staff members. Overseeing the professional development programs, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that all employees possess the expertise required to provide respectful and dignified care to individuals with developmental disabilities. This leadership role involves cultivating a workplace culture that prioritizes empathy and excellence in human services. By managing talent acquisition strategies, Kristi Nastars builds a workforce capable of supporting the diverse needs of the 350 individuals served annually. The Chief Human Resources Officer develops policies that promote staff well-being and operational efficiency, directly impacting the quality of residential and day programs. Nastars aligns human capital initiatives with the broader organizational mission, ensuring that the team remains committed to the core values of the organization. Through effective personnel management, the Chief Human Resources Officer sustains the high standards of care expected by the community.