Viability Welcomes Paul Murphy to Board of Directors
Viability Welcomes Paul Murphy to Board of Directors Springfield, MA – February 20, 2026 – Viability Inc., a human services organization dedicated to building a world in which individuals with disabilities and other disadvantages realize acceptance, inclusion, and access, is pleased to announce the addition of Paul Murphy to its Board of Directors. “Paul Murphy is an experienced leader who brings the value of care for people and mission coupled with thoughtful curiosity and insight for important discussions, and steadfast commitment to service. I can’t say enough about how thrilled we are to welcome Paul to Viability’s board of directors,” said Colleen Holmes, Viability’s President and CEO. Murphy is a retired attorney with more than 30 years at the Boston law firm Foley Hoag, after which he served as Legal and Administrative Counsel of Amherst College, his alma mater. He has served on the Board of Directors or Board of Trustees of numerous nonprofit organizations, including New England Public Media, Baystate Health, and the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts. “I am honored to join the Viability Board of Directors. For 55 years, Viability has had a profound impact on the lives of many disabled and disadvantaged members of our community. Viability has helped to ensure that they have real opportunities to thrive in all aspects of life. I am grateful to have been given an opportunity to contribute to this important work,” Mr. Murphy stated. About Viability Viability Inc. is a human services agency headquartered in Springfield, MA, providing employment, job training and placement, vocational, life skill-building, and other community-based services to nearly 4,300 individuals with disabilities or disadvantages annually. With a staff of 430, Viability serves individuals across Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island. Program models include community-based day and day habilitation services; supported living options; psycho-social clubhouses; transportation services; and pre-employment, vocational, internship, and employment programs. Viability is accredited by CARF and Clubhouse International and certified by the MA Department of Developmental Services and the Massachusetts Division of Medical Assistance. For media inquiries, contact Ricard Torres-Mateluna, Vice President of Marketing and Communications: communications@viability.org | 413.781.5359
Viability Welcomes Donna Carroll and Rick Perryman to Board of Directors
Viability Welcomes Donna Carroll and Rick Perryman to Board of Directors Springfield, MA –September 29, 2025– Viability Inc., a human services organization dedicated to building a world in which individuals with disabilities and other disadvantages realize acceptance, inclusion, and access, is pleased to announce the addition of Donna Carroll and Rick Perryman to its Board of Directors. “With their professional experiences and rock-solid value of our mission, Donna Carroll and Rick Perryman are excellent additions to our board of directors as we build the next levels of opportunity and impact with individuals, businesses and our communities so that together, we thrive beyond limits,” said Colleen Holmes, Viability’s President and CEO. Donna Carroll brings extensive experience in career development and student services to the board. As a Workforce Planning Partner at Baystate Health and formerly as the Assistant Director of Career Development at American International College, Ms. Carroll has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate their professional journeys and achieve their goals. Her expertise in recruitment, placement, and career counseling aligns perfectly with Viability’s mission to provide comprehensive employment and vocational services. Rick Perryman brings over 20 years of risk management and insurance experience specializing in nonprofit organizations. A graduate of Brown University (B.A. Sociology), Boston University Graduate School of Management (MBA), and Boston University School of Law (JD), he serves as a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) providing comprehensive insurance solutions including Directors & Officers liability coverage, volunteer risk mitigation, and multi-state property management. His expertise in simplifying complex insurance processes and developing mission-aligned coverage programs makes him a valuable addition to the board. “I’m honored to join the Board of Directors at Viability and contribute to an organization so deeply committed to inclusion, accessibility, and human potential. With three decades of experience in talent acquisition and career development, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of meaningful employment. Viability’s mission aligns closely with my passion for empowering individuals to succeed through job opportunities and community engagement. I look forward to supporting their impactful efforts and helping create pathways for all individuals to thrive beyond limits,” Ms. Carroll stated. “I am both excited and grateful for the opportunity to join Viability’s Board of Directors. Perpetually driven by a deep commitment to public service and the foundational values of inclusion, acceptance, and access, I’m eager to contribute to a mission that empowers every individual with the opportunity to thrive,” Mr. Perryman added. The combined expertise of Ms. Carroll and Mr. Perryman will strengthen Viability’s governance as the organization continues expanding its mission. About Viability Viability Inc. is a human services agency headquartered in Springfield, MA, which provides employment, job training and placement, vocational, life skill-building, and other community-based services to nearly 4,300 individuals with disabilities or disadvantages annually. With a staff of 430, Viability ensures individuals in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island have opportunities to thrive beyond limits. Program models include community-based day and day habilitation services; supported living options; psycho-social clubhouses; transportation services; and pre-employment, vocational, internship and employment programs. Viability is accredited by CARF and Clubhouse International, and certified by MA Department of Developmental Services and the Massachusetts Division of Medical Assistance. ### For media inquiries please contact Ricard Torres-Mateluna, Vice President of Marketing and Communications communications@viability.org 413.781.5359
Viability’s Cathy Tranfaglia Honored with 2025 Light of Dawnn Award for Exceptional Community Service
Cathy Tranfaglia, 2025 Light of Dawnn Awardee Springfield, MA – March 2, 2025 – Viability Inc. proudly announces that Cathy Tranfaglia, Program Director of Community Integration Services, has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Light of Dawnn Award in recognition of her extraordinary commitment to strengthening communities and improving the lives of others. “Cathy’s career certainly demonstrates those qualities, over her 27-year career with Viability, she has helped hundreds of our program members succeed in employment and continues to carry a caseload” said Colleen Holmes, Viability’s President and CEO. “This recognition is richly deserved and reflects Cathy’s exceptional leadership and dedication”.The Light of Dawnn Awards were established to honor the legacy of youth leader Dawnn Jaffier, who demonstrated an unwavering commitment to building stronger communities before her life was tragically cut short. Recipients share Dawnn’s passion and emulate her dedication to service. “I am deeply humbled to receive this meaningful award that carries forward Dawnn’s inspiring legacy, specially knowing the difference she made in so many lives” said Tranfaglia. ” I will continue to strive to live up to her reputation and the members that I serve. Dawnn’s spirit of service motivates me daily to continue breaking down barriers and building bridges of understanding.” The 2025 Light of Dawnn Awards Ceremony is presented by the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network in partnership with the Highland Street Foundation, Josh Kraft, and West End House. To learn more about Dawnn Jaffier and the award honoring her legacy please visit https://www.highlandstreet.org/articles/light-dawnn-awardsAbout Viability Viability Inc. is a human services agency headquartered in Springfield, MA, which provides employment, job training and placement, vocational, life skill-building, and other community-based services to nearly 4300 individuals with disabilities or disadvantages annually. With a staff of 430+, Viability ensures individuals in our service areas in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island have opportunities to Thrive Beyond Limits. Our program models include community-based day and day habilitation services; supported living options; psycho-social clubhouses; transportation services; and a variety of pre-employment, vocational, internship and employment programs. Viability is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and Clubhouse International and certified by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services and the Massachusetts Division of Medical Assistance. ### Media Contact: Ricard Torres-Mateluna, Vice President of Marketing and Communications communications@viability.org, 413.217.4587
Baystate Health Board of Trustees Welcomes Colleen Holmes, Viability Inc. President and CEO as their new Vice Chair.
January 28, 2025 Via BayState Health Announcement Baystate Health has been caring for Western Massachusetts communities for more than 141 years. In partnership with its 13,000 caregivers, the Board of Trustees and subsequent committees are entrusted to lead the organization through the lens of its Mission – to improve the health of the people in our communities, with quality and compassion. The 19 elected Trustees are hyper-focused on the community impact of the organizations’ actions and decisions and bring diversity of skill, expertise, knowledge and community representation to our collective voice. “The time, talent and treasure invested by our Board of Trustees in Baystate Health is so important in our journey to become a clinically driven and physician-led health system,” said Peter D. Banko, President & CEO. “They represent the unique perspectives and voices of our community, and their perspectives are critical to ensuring we are the economic and health pillar in New England, preferred destination to work and practice, and establish long-term financial resilience for our organization.” Baystate Health is announcing the following transitions of its Board of Trustees in 2025: Harriet DeVerry, retired Senior Vice President and Group Financial Officer at Webster, just concluded her two-year term as Chair of the Board on December 31, 2024 and will continue to serve as Trustee on Baystate Health’s Board. Bob Bacon, President of Elm Electrical, Inc., who served on the Board for the past 10 years, since 2015, and as Chair of the Board from 2021-22, will be stepping down as a Trustee. DeVerry and Bacon were members of the Board of Trustees at Noble Hospital when that hospital became part of Baystate Health in 2015 and they joined the Baystate Health Board of Trustees at that time. “I extend my deepest gratitude to Harriet, as former Chair of the Board, for her leadership and support, especially the last seven months of 2024 as Baystate Health welcomed me to Western Massachusetts in June,” said Banko. “I also am extremely grateful for Bob’s 10-year commitment to serve as Trustee, including his two years as Chair. Their dedication to the organization, our Mission, our community and to healthcare in Western Massachusetts goes above and beyond.” Colleen Holmes has transitioned to the role of Board of Trustee Chair from her role of Vice Chair. Holmes is the President and CEO of Springfield-based Viability, Inc., an organization which partners with employers to meet their business needs by including the workforce of individuals with disabilities. In this role, she builds on her 30-year career in human services, holding leadership roles in human resources, sales, and marketing. Holmes joined the Baystate Health Board of Trustees after serving on the Quality Committee and currently serves on the Executive, Human Resources, and Governance Committees. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University and a master of business administration degree from American International College. Dr. Akinyele Lovelace, a partner at Family Medicine Associates in Westfield, has been named Vice Chair. Dr. Lovelace is affiliated with Baystate Noble Hospital, Baystate Medical Center, and Holyoke Medical Center, and has served as a Baystate Health Board of Trustee for five years. He most recently served as the Honorary Baystate Noble Ball Chair with his wife, Christina Lovelace, at the 58th Annual Baystate Noble Ball in November 2024. Dr. Lovelace spent several years in Texas, practicing internal medicine at Hereford Health Clinic. During his time there, he was Hereford Brand Reader’s Winner for Best Physician in 2012 and 2014. In addition to this medical degree from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Lovelace holds a master of business administration degree from Texas Tech University and a bachelor’s degree from Xavier University of Louisiana. The Baystate Health Board of Trustees welcomes its newest member, Keith J. Nesbitt, Senior Vice President and Business Banking Team Leader at Berkshire Bank. Nesbitt has nearly 20 years of experience in commercial lending, portfolio management and credit administration in regional and community banking institutions. Presently he manages a team of commercial relationship managers for the Pioneer Valley (metro Springfield) and Connecticut (metro Hartford & New Haven) for Berkshire Bank. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia, master of science from Georgia State University and master of business administration from the Keller Graduate School of Management. Nesbitt will fill the Board of Trustee seat vacated by Bacon. “I am thrilled to welcome Keith to the Board of Trustees and to support Colleen and Dr. Lovelace in their new leadership roles,” said Banko. “As we build a clinically driven and physician-led system and focus on our transformation, their respective backgrounds and diverse skillsets will provide strong voices and deeper community perspectives.”
Viability Announces Sylviana Lopez as the new Chief People Officer.
Viability Inc. Announces Sylviana Lopez as the new Chief People Officer. Viability Inc. Announces Sylviana Lopez as the new Chief People Officer. Springfield, MA, March 18th 2024 – Viability Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Sylviana Lopez as its Chief People Officer leading human resources functions across the organization. Ms. Lopez brings over two decades of experience and expertise to the organization in both the for profit and not-for-profit sectors, where she has honed forward-thinking creativity in meeting organizational needs and goals. Throughout her career, she has been known for her ability to dive in and master new tools and approaches and her dedication to the growth and development of individuals. “Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are at the core of our mission,” said Colleen Holmes, Viability’s President & CEO. ” As the newest member of our executive team, Sylviana Lopez further strengthens our deep commitment to continually advancing our culture where together, those we serve, our workforce, partners and communities succeed in thriving beyond limits.” Ms. Lopez earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in Puerto Rico and her Master of Business Administration degree in Human Resources Management from the University of New Haven in Connecticut. About ViabilityViability, Inc. is a human services agency headquartered in Springfield, MA, which provides employment, job training and placement, vocational, life skill-building, and other community- based services to nearly 4300 individuals with disabilities or disadvantages annually. With a staff of 430, Viability ensures individuals in our service areas in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island have opportunities to thrive beyond limits. Our program models include community-based day and day habilitation services; supported living options; psycho- social clubhouses; transportation services; and a variety of pre-employment, vocational, internship and employment programs. Viability is accredited by CARF and ClubhouseInternational, and certified by MA DDS and the Massachusetts Division of Medical Assistance ### For media inquiries, please contact:Ricard Torres-Mateluna, Vice President of Marketing & Communications communications@viability.org 413.217.4587 #ThriveBeyondlimits Previous PostNext Post
Viability Welcomes Two New Members to our Board of Directors
Viability Welcomes Rhonda Jacobs and Pamela Molina-Toledo as Members of Viability’s Board of Directors Viability Welcomes Two New Members to Board of Directors Springfield, MA – March 1, 2024 – Viability Inc., a human services organization dedicated to building a world in which individuals with disabilities and other disadvantages realize acceptance, inclusion, and access, is pleased to announce the addition of Rhonda Jacobs and Pamela Molina-Toledo to its Board of Directors. “Viability is very fortunate to have two such dynamic leaders join our board,” said Colleen Holmes,Viability’s President and CEO. “Their professional and lived experiences, combined with their clear commitment to mission-driven governance, will be invaluable assets to our organization as we continue to advance our mission.” Rhonda Jacobs brings extensive experience in education and a deep understanding of the needs of individuals seeking empowerment. As Principal of Alternative Schools for the Springfield School District, Ms. Jacobs has dedicated her career to providing opportunities for students facing diverse challenges. “When the opportunity arose to join the Viability Board,” Ms. Jacobs stated, “I saw a perfect fit. I bring a genuine understanding of the individuals we serve, having worked directly with them throughout my career. I look forward to sharing my experiences and collaborating with the team to ensure our members continue to ‘Thrive Beyond Limits.’” Ms. Jacobs holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Westfield State University. Pamela Molina-Toledo brings a wealth of expertise in disability rights advocacy and international human rights work to the board. Currently serving as the Executive Director for the World Federation of the Deaf, Ms. Molina-Toledo possesses vast experience in legislative and advocacy work on a global scale. She was instrumental in the drafting of the United Nations Convention for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and boasts over 15 years of experience in the field. “I am truly honored and excited to join Viability’s Board of Directors,” Ms. Molina-Toledo expressed. “I believe my experience in advocacy, sign language rights, and legislative work will contribute greatly to this leading organization in the human services sector. I look forward to learning from my colleagues and the members of Viability.” Ms. Molina-Toledo holds a Master’s degree in Disability Studies from the University of Illinois in Chicago and a BA in Humanities Studies from the University of Chile. About ViabilityViability Inc. is a human services agency headquartered in Springfield, MA, which provides employment, job training and placement, vocational, life skill-building, and other community- based services to nearly 4300 individuals with disabilities or disadvantages annually. With a staff of 430, Viability ensures individuals in our service areas in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island have opportunities to thrive beyond limits. Our program models include community-based day and day habilitation services; supported living options; psycho- social clubhouses; transportation services; and a variety of pre-employment, vocational, internship and employment programs. Viability is accredited by CARF and Clubhouse International, and certified by MA DDS and the Massachusetts Division of Medical Assistance ### Media Contact: Ricard Torres-Mateluna, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, communications@viability.org, 413.217.4587 #ThriveBeyondlimits Previous PostNext Post
Viability Inc. Recognizes Cencora as An Inclusive Employer for People with Disabilities
Cencora (formerly AmerisourceBergen) has been awarded the 2023 Viability Inclusive Employer of the Year Award in recognition of its partnership and inclusive culture and employment of people with disabilities or disadvantages.
