Celebrating the Project SEARCH Class of 2025 at Springfield College

On May 22, 2025, Springfield College and neba proudly celebrated the graduation of the Project SEARCH Class of 2025. 

Project SEARCH graduates have a laugh during graduation.

Slandie Dieujuste, PhD. | Vice President of Campus Life and Inclusion, Springfield College

This meaningful event honored the hard work, growth, and achievements of the interns who took part in a transformative year of career training, skill-building, and community engagement.

A Legacy of Opportunity and Inclusion

Since its launch at Springfield College in 2018, Project SEARCH has provided young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities a structured and supportive path to employment. As the first institute of higher learning in Western Massachusetts to host this program, Springfield College has become a model for inclusive education and workforce development.

Project SEARCH interns participate in month-long rotations across a wide range of campus departments—such as technology services, communications, the post office, business office, archives, athletic equipment room, and facilities—gaining hands-on experience in real-world settings. These opportunities help interns develop both professional and personal skills, often leading to full-time employment, sometimes even within the college itself.

Honoring the Class of 2025
This year’s graduating class included five remarkable interns:

• Grace Butler
• Nicholas Diaz
• Samuel Foresta
• Alexander James “AJ” Pion
• Connor Wynne

Among the many achievements recognized during the ceremony, Grace Butler was applauded for her perfect attendance throughout the program—an outstanding demonstration of commitment and reliability.

The celebration featured welcoming remarks from Ruth Poirier, Project SEARCH Division Supervisor at neba, and Dr. Slandie Dieujuste, Vice President for Campus Life & Inclusion at Springfield College. Sarah Peterson, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services, also offered powerful words on the broader impact of inclusive programs like Project SEARCH.

Interns Nicholas Diaz and Alexander James “AJ” Pion took to the stage to share reflections on behalf of their cohort. While their words remain with those in the room, it was clear they brought laughter and warmth to their fellow interns and guests alike.

Community Reflections and Recognitions
Educators and mentors shared reflections on the value and success of the program. Valerie J.C. Annear, Director of Educator Preparation and Licensure, spoke about the meaningful contributions of interns to campus life and the importance of inclusion in education and employment.

In addition to the intern certificates of completion, several individuals and groups were honored with Certificates of Appreciation for their unwavering support of neba’s Project SEARCH program:

• Certificate of Appreciation in Support of neba's Project SEARCH Program
  • Damon Markowitz
  • Scott Dranka
  • John Brady
  • Valerie Annear
  • Harvest Table Staff
• Certificate of Appreciation, Project SEARCH Program Champion
  • Jamie Piantek Dube, Resident Engagement Director, Loomis Lakeside at Reed’s Landing

These champions have gone above and beyond to support the interns and embody the spirit of the Project SEARCH mission.

Looking Ahead
The Project SEARCH program continues to be a beacon of inclusive opportunity and professional growth. Its success at Springfield College is the result of deep collaboration between neba, the college community, local employers, and most importantly, the interns who bring their drive, resilience, and heart to the journey.

​At neba, we are honored to walk alongside these incredible individuals. Congratulations to the Project SEARCH Class of 2025—you have not only graduated but inspired an entire community.

To view all of the images from this event follow this link: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCff2o

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