The Arc Westchester Hosts 69th Annual Membership Meeting
New board president introduced and wall mural unveiled for Richard P. Swierat’s retirement celebration
Westchester County, N.Y. (June 26, 2018) – The Arc Westchester, the County’s largest agency supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those on the autism spectrum, and their families, hosted its 69th Annual Membership Meeting at The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center on June 12. More than 150 chapter members, invited guests, self-advocates, staff and board members were in attendance.
The Annual Meeting formally acknowledged changes to the organization’s board of directors. Of note, Joseph Cassarini was voted in as new board president.
“Joseph has supported this organization with great enthusiasm over the last seven years as a board director,” said Rosa Rodriguez, incumbent board president, The Arc Westchester. “We look forward to his leadership in helping to guide the continued success of the organization.”
Patsy Ginese, Robert Hunt, Bernard Krooks and Rita Ross were recognized as retiring board members. Ginese was also presented the Richard P. Swierat Self-Advocate of the Year Award.
Following meeting adjournment, The Arc Westchester held a retirement celebration for Richard (Ric) P. Swierat, honoring his 35 years of exemplary service as the chapter’s executive director. During the banquet reception, a wall mural was dedicated to the former executive director, who was a longtime champion for providing opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to express themselves through art. The wall mural was developed in partnership with ARTSWestchester and local community artist Diane Cherr. She taught a 7-week class with contributing artists in our various day programs.
ARTSWestchester was also presented the gallery265 Partnership Award for its ongoing support of the artists-in-residence matching grant program, which provides community artists opportunities to engage in creative projects with people The Arc Westchester supports.
“This is the perfect send-off for Ric,” said Tibisay (Tibi) Guzmán, new executive director, The Arc Westchester. “We’re extremely grateful for all that he has done for our organization and the people we support. This mural will be a constant reminder of all we have to be proud of as an organization – and all we have to look forward to, as well.”
Swierat received several proclamations from state and local government officials, including The County Executive’s Office and City of Yonkers, to name a few. Other special guests and dignitaries included Joan Volpe, director of OPWDD Region 3 Operations, who extended congratulations and best wishes from Albany. “Ric has left an indelible mark not only on The Arc Westchester, but on a service delivery system that is evolving to better meet the needs of people with developmental disabilities in New York State,” said Volpe. “On behalf of Governor Andrew Cuomo and OPWDD Acting Commissioner Kerry Delaney, thank you for your service and dedication in helping people with developmental disabilities live richer lives.”
About The Arc Westchester Foundation
The Arc Westchester Foundation’s mission is to increase public awareness and to raise financial support from the community, generating income through long-term investments, and making contributions to support services for people with developmental disabilities served by The Arc Westchester. Visit www.arcwestchester.org.
The Arc Westchester is a chapter of The Arc USA and The Arc New York.
