As The Arc of Essex County looks to the future, we are excited to share an important leadership update from CEO Kathleen Hinnigan-Cohen. Effective February 1, 2026, a new executive leadership team was established to help guide the agency forward with clarity, collaboration, and a shared vision for growth and impact.

This team brings deep institutional knowledge, proven leadership, and a strong commitment to the individuals and families The Arc serves. Please join us in congratulating the following leaders on their new roles:

• Laurie Best, Chief Services Officer (formerly Senior Director of Children and Day Services)
• Heather Comstock, Chief Development Officer (formerly Senior Director of Development and Communications)
• Rebecca Lorusso, Chief Program Officer (formerly Senior Director of Residential Services)
• Courtney Molinari, Chief Administrative Officer (formerly Senior Director of Human Resources)
• Vanda Angelillo, Chief Financial Officer, who joins the agency with extensive nonprofit and IDD experience as we thank Rob Purcell for his many years of service and wish him well in retirement

Along with these appointments, the agency is streamlining operations to better align programs, services, and administrative functions. These changes position The Arc of Essex County to move confidently into its next chapter: strengthening collaboration, improving efficiency, and advancing exciting strategic initiatives. We look forward to all that lies ahead and extend our congratulations to this outstanding leadership team.