Easter Seals Rhode Island Board of Directors Begins a New Year with New Leadership and Two New Members

As the new fiscal year begins, Easter Seals RI congratulates Tracey Colucci as she steps into the role of Chairman of the Board, and welcomes Dr. Michael Ferry and Michael Thayer to the Board of Directors.

Colucci has been involved with Easter Seals since the 1970s. She joined the Board of Directors in 2008 and has always proven to be an integral part of the team. She has served on numerous committees including the Development Committee and Walk With Me Committee, as well as holding the title of Secretary. Colucci not only supports Easter Seals RI through her countless efforts as a Board Member, but she also hosts the annual Century 21 Access America themed dinner each year. Over the course of her time with Easter Seals RI she has raised over $75,000 for children and young adults with special needs and disabilities.

“Our Board of Directors has always had superior leadership, and I know that Tracey will continue to provide the same leadership while she is Chairman of the Board,” says Judy Fortier, Director of Development. “She will continue to work hard to raise awareness and funds to help support the programs and services Easter Seals RI provides.”

In addition to Colucci stepping into a new position, the Board has also welcomed two new members; Dr. Michael Ferry and Michael Thayer, to consist of an 11 member Board of Directors.

Dr. Ferry is the President of Ferry Orthodontics in Cranston. He is also actively involved with RI Dental Association, RI Association of Orthodontists, the Community College of RI, Northeastern Society of Orthodontists and Delta Dental RI. He currently resides in Wakefield, RI with his wife and children.

“Our family knows firsthand the importance of Early Intervention programs, and I am looking to raise awareness for other families who can benefit from Early Intervention services as well,” says Dr. Ferry.

Thayer, a Mobility Consultant for Ride-Away. He is also involved with the Kiwanis Club of Brockton and enjoys singing, acting, and cycling. Thayer currently resides in Attleboro, MA, with his wife.

“Working with families that have a disabled child gives me a gift of hope that their young lives will be better from our experience together,” says Thayer.

Since 2006, Easter Seals Rhode Island has provided exceptional services to ensure that all children with disabilities or special needs and their families have an equal opportunity to live, learn, work and play in their communities. Last year, Easter Seals Rhode Island served over 400 children through Early Intervention Services and the Pediatric Outpatient Program. For more information about Easter Seals Rhode Island, please call 401-284-1000 or visit, www.eastersealsri.org.

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