BOSTON, MA - The Baker Center for Children & Families, a national leader in children’s mental health, has named Maria Gagnon, MSW to the role of Executive Director of The New England Association of Child Welfare Commissioners and Directors. Maria succeeds Julie Springwater, MSW, who previously held the role since 1994.
The New England Association of Child Welfare Commissioners and Directors is a child welfare organization which is housed at The Baker Center. The Association serves as consortium of child welfare agency leaders and staff from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. For nearly 40 years, NEACWCD has facilitated shared learning communities, coordinated transformational change efforts, and elevated the voices of individuals who experienced the child welfare system.
The Association aims to support child welfare agencies in helping children live safely in their home with their family, promote best practices across New England, facilitate shared problem solving, and participate in national conversations and change efforts. This work is done in partnership with child welfare leaders, parent and youth advocates, community partners, state and federal governments, and philanthropic organizations.
Maria brings a wealth of experience and background to the role, having previously served as the Association’s Program Director. Maria brings over 30 years of non-profit leadership experience to her new role and aims to continue the important work started by Julie and her team. The Baker Center looks forward to supporting the continued development of this vital organization under fresh vision and leadership.
About The Baker Center for Children and Families
An affiliate of Harvard Medical School, The Baker Center for Children and Families is a nationally recognized mental health organization dedicated to improving the quality of mental health care for children (ages 2-22), families, and caregivers. Originally named Judge Baker Children’s Center, in honor of Harvey Humphrey Baker, the first judge appointed to the Boston Juvenile Court, the Center opened in 1917 and serves children and families of Greater Boston and the MetroWest region.
The Baker Center is dedicated to improving the lives of children and families by bridging the gap between science and practice to improve access to the highest quality care in community-based settings. Their life-changing mental health and special education programs include Center for Effective Therapy (CET), Manville School, Camp Baker, and Next Step: College Success & Independent Living.
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