Staff Accomplishments

Katrina Cardillo • July 27, 2026

Staff Accomplishments

Michelle Carleton

Michelle Carleton, VP of Residential Services

Michelle received a Providers' Council Certificate in Nonprofit Human Services Management, a graduate-level program at Suffolk University.

Kayla Brown-Wood

Kayla Brown-Wood, Director of Community Services

Kayla earned her MBA in Healthcare Administration from Franklin Pierce University.

Amari Smith

Amari Smith

We're excited to highlight Amari Smith, one of our incredible McCann Tech interns! 


"I was interested in interning at BFAIR because it gave me the opportunity to apply my technical skills in a real-world environment while supporting a meaningful mission. I wanted hands-on IT experience that went beyond classroom learning, and this internship allowed me to take on responsibilities I likely wouldn't have been exposed to until much later in my career." 


Amari's dedication and willingness to jump in and learn has made a real impact. We're grateful to have her as part of our team!


Read Amari's full spotlight below


Amari Smith
Ella Gaffey

Ella Gaffey

We're proud to feature Ella Gaffey, one of our talented McCann Tech interns!

 

"I have learned the importance of effective communication, not only between employees and customers, but also from employee to employee. Along with that, I have observed different managing styles that I will use when I hopefully take on a managing position in the future." 


Ella's growth, insight, and professionalism have been wonderful to see. We're excited for all that lies ahead for her! 


Read Ella's full spotlight below







Ella Gaffey
Emma Lacasse

Emma Lacasse

Meet Emma Lacasse, another amazing intern making a difference at BFAIR! 


"When I saw BFAIR as an option for an internship, I was instantly drawn to it. I love the things that BFAIR does for people. I believe that BFAIR's mission is important and can change thousands of lives. I knew I would love to be a part of this, especially because I have family members with disabilities. It is a nice way to educate myself and learn how to help the best I can." 


Emma's passion for our mission shines through in everything she does. We're so thankful for her commitment and heart! 


Read Emma's full spotlight below





Emma Lacasse
Employee of the Quarter - John Fox

Employee of the Quarter: John Fox 

Please join us in celebrating John for going above and beyond in his role and truly embodying the BFAIR Way! 

In just eight months, John has transformed one of our most medically complex programs. Through dedication, research, and a genuine commitment to learning, he has become a powerful advocate for the individuals he supports. 


John sees people for who they are, not their disabilities, and is constantly finding ways to help them live full, independent lives. Whether it's navigating insurance challenges, advocating for essential equipment, or simply refusing to take no for an answer, John always finds a way forward. 


He doesn't stop at his own program, either. John has taken the initiative to learn across programs so he can support anyone who needs it, bringing value not just to his team but to BFAIR as a whole. His impact reaches even further through his work identifying ways to improve systems like iCentrix and enhancing staff training to better support new and current employees. 



John's passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment make him a true standout. Congratulations, John, we're lucky to have you! 


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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contacts: Katrina Cardillo Senior Director of Marketing & PR BFAIR 771 South Church Street North Adams, MA 01247 413.664.9382 kcardillo@bfair.org www.bfair.org BFAIR Names Theresa Denette, MBA, as Chief Operating Officer Tues. Aug. 18, 2026 (North Adams, MA) — BFAIR announced today that Theresa Denette, MBA, has been named the organization's permanent Chief Operating Officer (COO), following her tenure in the role on an interim basis since earlier this year. The appointment reflects Denette's proven leadership and the confidence BFAIR's board and executive team have in her ability to guide the organization's operations going forward. Denette has spent nearly 25 years with BFAIR, steadily advancing from Assistant Program Director to a series of senior leadership roles spanning Day Services, Quality Assurance, Clinical Services, and agency-wide Operations. Throughout her career, she has been a driving force behind program growth, operational quality, and organizational innovation. "Theresa has proven, time and again, that she is the right person for this role," said Randall Kinnas, Chief Executive Officer. "Her deep institutional knowledge, steady leadership, and genuine dedication to the individuals and families we serve have already made a real impact across our organization. I'm confident that with Theresa in this position permanently, BFAIR is exceptionally well-positioned for continued growth and excellence in the years ahead." Denette holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from Westfield State College, an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University, and a Graduate Certificate in Human Resources from Fitchburg State University. She serves as President of the Board of Directors for the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition and is a member of the McCann Business Technology Advisory Board. She lives in Clarksburg with her husband and children. ###
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