Northeast Arc Executive and Leadership Team

Jo Ann Simons, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Northeast Arc, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Simons architects long-term growth initiatives that expand access to early intervention and residential support services for thousands of individuals with disabilities. By engaging with the Board of Directors, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between mission-driven goals and operational execution. This leadership role involves cultivating partnerships with community stakeholders to enhance the visibility of autism advocacy programs. Jo Ann Simons maintains a focus on sustainable service delivery models that empower participants to achieve greater independence. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the resources necessary to maintain high-quality care standards. Ultimately, Simons drives the expansion of inclusive community programs, ensuring that the organization remains a vital resource for families throughout the region.

Cynthia Park, the Chief Financial Officer at Northeast Arc, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial sustainability of the nonprofit. Park oversees complex budgeting processes, grant management, and resource allocation to support diverse programs like employment training and family services. By collaborating with the executive team, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that every dollar directly advances the mission of empowering individuals with disabilities. This role involves rigorous financial reporting and compliance monitoring to maintain transparency with donors and regulatory bodies. Cynthia Park implements robust internal controls that optimize operational efficiency across all departments. Through strategic financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates risks while identifying opportunities for program expansion. By maintaining a disciplined approach to capital management, Park secures the financial foundation required to support 10,000 people annually, ensuring that the organization continues to deliver impactful services without interruption.

Jeanne Russo, the Chief Operating Officer at Northeast Arc, executes the daily operational strategies that sustain high-quality service delivery. Russo manages the integration of early intervention and residential support programs, ensuring seamless coordination between clinical staff and administrative teams. By streamlining internal workflows, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the efficiency of service provision for individuals with autism and other disabilities. This leadership role involves monitoring performance metrics to ensure that all programs meet rigorous quality standards and community needs. Jeanne Russo collaborates with department heads to resolve operational bottlenecks and improve the overall participant experience. Through the implementation of scalable processes, the Chief Operating Officer supports the organization's mission to foster inclusion. By focusing on operational excellence, Russo ensures that the infrastructure remains robust enough to handle the diverse needs of the community, ultimately driving the success of every program under the organizational umbrella.

Richard Leon, the President at Northeast Arc, provides high-level leadership to advance the organization's mission of community inclusion and empowerment. Leon focuses on external relations and advocacy, representing the organization to key stakeholders and regional partners. By championing the needs of individuals with autism and disabilities, the President drives public awareness and support for essential services like employment training and residential supports. This leadership role involves working closely with the Board to refine the strategic direction and ensure the long-term viability of the nonprofit. Richard Leon monitors the broader landscape of disability services to identify emerging trends and opportunities for innovation. Through active engagement with community leaders, the President secures the partnerships necessary to expand the reach of the organization's programs. By maintaining a clear focus on the core mission, Leon ensures that the organization remains a powerful advocate for those it serves, consistently delivering meaningful impact.

Gary Penninam, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Northeast Arc, directs the talent acquisition, retention, and professional development strategies for the entire workforce. Penninam architects comprehensive training programs that equip staff with the specialized skills required to support individuals with disabilities effectively. By fostering a culture of inclusion and excellence, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the organization attracts top-tier talent dedicated to the mission. This role involves managing complex labor relations, benefits administration, and performance management systems that align with organizational goals. Gary Penninam collaborates with the executive team to build a resilient workforce capable of adapting to evolving community needs. Through the implementation of strategic human capital initiatives, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives employee engagement and operational stability. By prioritizing staff development, Penninam ensures that the organization maintains the high-quality care standards necessary to empower thousands of individuals each year.