Every Voice Matters: Celebrating the Project SEARCH Class of 2026

Top row, left to right: Dan Demirjian, Jessica Schuth, Rebekah Creel, Je'Vonte West, Tariq Soffan, Jordan Jones, William Hennessey. Bottom row left to right: Jenna Orwat, Te'Vontez West, Ruth Poirier, Noah Bilodeau

On June 25, 2026, Springfield College welcomed family members, friends, community partners, and supporters to celebrate neba’s Project SEARCH Class of 2026. What unfolded throughout the morning was more than a ceremony—it was a reflection of growth, confidence, laughter, and the many ways opportunity is created when people come together in support of one another.

The Class of 2026 included Noah Bilodeau, Rebekah Creel, William Hennessey, Jordan Jones, Tariq Soffan, Je'Vonte West, and Te'Vontez West. Over the past year, they participated in immersive internships across Springfield College and with community partner Loomis Lakeside at Reed’s Landing, building workplace skills while discovering new strengths and abilities.

As Project SEARCH Program Coordinator and Division Supervisor Ruth Poirier reminded those gathered, the program is about far more than employment. It is about finding voice, recognizing strengths, building independence, and understanding the value each person brings to a workplace and community.

That message was visible throughout the morning as graduates stepped to the microphone to share reflections. Some spoke with ease and confidence, while others took a moment before speaking—doing something they once may not have imagined themselves doing. Each voice, whether naturally outgoing or newly discovered, was met with encouragement and applause.

The celebration was filled with laughter as a year-in-review video played, highlighting shared experiences, growth, and connection. The video featured an original song created and performed by the graduates, capturing the energy and spirit of their time together.

Ruth reflected on the impact of the class, noting that their humor, determination, and willingness to learn had left a lasting mark on the program.

Learning and growth extended beyond the interns themselves. David L. C. McMahon, Director of Spiritual Life at Springfield College, shared a personal story from his college years about unexpectedly repairing vacuum cleaners in a campus closet. His reflection served as a reminder that meaningful learning often happens in unexpected places.

Olevia Segree, Digital Content Manager in the Office of Marketing and Communications, highlighted the contributions Project SEARCH interns make across campus and recognized Rebekah Creel for her work within the office. Rebekah’s experience was also featured on neba’s blog, Where Opportunity Begins, where she reflects on discovering confidence and opportunity through her internship experience.

Springfield College students Dan Demirjian and Jessica Schuth reflected on their year working alongside the interns. Dan shared that he entered the experience unsure of what to expect, but left with a deeper understanding of inclusive employment and the strengths each intern brought to their roles. Jessica echoed similar sentiments, noting how the experience broadened her perspective and will influence her future professional path.

Anthony Keane, Regional Director for the Central West Office of the Department of Developmental Services, spoke to the importance of continued partnership in expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities. His presence reflected the shared commitment between DDS, Springfield College, neba, and community partners.

Project SEARCH Site Coordinator Jenna Orwat shared her appreciation for the welcome she received when joining the program and praised the interns for their dedication, growth, and perseverance throughout the year.

​The celebration concluded with remarks from Jamie Piantek Dube of Loomis Lakeside at Reed’s Landing, who echoed the themes of the morning and recognized the collaboration among families, educators, employers, and community partners that make Project SEARCH possible.

As the morning came to a close, Ruth Poirier reminded graduates to carry forward not only the skills they gained, but the confidence they built and the people who supported them along the way.

The Project SEARCH Class of 2026 leaves Springfield College with experience, confidence, and a community behind them. Their journey reflects what is possible when opportunity is paired with support, expectation, and belief in potential.

​At neba, we are proud of each graduate and excited to see where their next chapter leads – we wish all the best to each and every graduate!