PITTSFIELD, Mass. — BCArc has named Sonja Haecker, Ed.D, Executive Vice President. In this new position she will oversee the Agency's Community Services programs, including Adult Family Care Program, Family Support & Advocacy, Employment & Vocational Services, Day Habilitation programs, and Community-Based Day Services. She will also oversee the Clinical Department, and Respite Services. 

 

In addition, Sonja will assist the President & CEO with strategic planning initiatives. 

 

Prior to this position, Sonja was Vice President of Community Services, where she expanded the Adult Family Care program, strengthened Family Support Services, and successfully spearheaded several new Agency initiatives.

 

"Sonja has demonstrated incredible leadership, and has implemented numerous innovative initiatives," said Maryann Hyatt, BCArc President. "We look forward to Sonja bringing her talents and skills to this new position."

 

Sonja has presented at conferences statewide and nationally, and has been recognized by the Arc of Massachusetts for her Leadership in Family and Individual Supports. She is a Massachusetts Ambassador for the national initiative "Charting the LifeCourse," and serves on the Berkshire Community College Human Services Advisory Board. She holds several training certificates in areas such as Positive Behavior Supports, and the Parent Consultant Training Institute.

 

Sonja worked with at-risk youth and low-income families before joining BCArc.

 

She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of New England, a Master's in Education from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, where she is a Distinguished Alumna, and a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from the College of Saint Rose.