About WCI

Marty Berliner, M.A.
President & Chief Executive Officer

Marty Berliner was appointed President & CEO of WCI in May 2024, bringing with him nearly four decades of leadership and advocacy within the Massachusetts intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) community. Prior to joining WCI, Marty served as President & CEO of Growthways, Inc., a provider of DDS services in the greater Brockton area.

Since 1986, Marty has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of I/DD services across the state. He has been directly involved in the development and implementation of key initiatives such as the Electronic Invoice Management (EIM) system, the Home and Community Services Information System (HCSIS), and the Chapter 257 rate structure.

Marty is a long-standing and active member of the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers (ADDP), where he has served on the Board of Directors for 25 years, including a decade as Treasurer. He is also the former Chair of the ADDP Residential Services Committee, where he championed quality and innovation in residential care.

He holds both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Connecticut, bringing a thoughtful and values-driven approach to leadership.

Pam Laventure, MHR
Vice President of Human Resources

Pam Laventure has been a dedicated member of the WCI team since 1995. She began her career as a Residential Director of Supports, overseeing five 24-hour residential programs. In 2000, she transitioned to the Human Resources department as a Payroll Specialist, where her role steadily expanded over the years. In 2010, Pam was appointed Vice President of Human Resources.

Pam brings a deep understanding of both direct service and organizational operations to her leadership in HR. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Smith College, a Certificate in Human Resources Management from Bentley University, and a Master’s degree in Human Resources from Framingham State University.

With decades of experience and a strong commitment to WCI’s mission, Pam plays a key role in fostering a supportive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace culture.

Cindy Cote, RN, BSN, MBA
Director of Nursing

Cindy Cote joined WCI in September 2020 as the Director of Nursing, bringing with her a wealth of clinical and leadership experience. She leads a dedicated team of four Registered Nurses and oversees all aspects of the nursing department with a focus on quality, safety, and compassionate care.

Cindy holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Magna Cum Laude) and an MBA with a concentration in Health Care from Boston University. She is a certified MAP Trainer and holds additional certifications in Applied Project Management, Health Care Management, Oncology, and Quality Management.

With extensive experience in both acute care and ambulatory settings, Cindy has specialized in oncology, pulmonary, and critical care within Boston’s leading teaching hospitals. Her passion lies in serving underserved populations. Prior to joining WCI, she built and led the Care Management Department at a community health center, where she provided care coordination and education to a diverse, multicultural population facing complex health challenges, language barriers, and social determinants of health.

As Director of Care Management, Cindy also partnered with an external Accountable Care Organization to improve outcomes for high-risk MassHealth members, demonstrating her commitment to innovative, patient-centered care.

Paula Dunn-Meadows
Residential Social Supports & Shared Living Division Head

Paula has a BA from Goucher College. She has been supporting Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for 35 years. She has 33 years of management and 26 years of senior management experience. She has extensive experience supporting Individuals with significant behavioral and/or mental health issues.

Sally Roach, M.Ed.
Division Head, 24-Hour Supports

With over 35 years of experience in the field of Intellectual and Developmental Services, Sally brings a deep well of knowledge, compassion, and leadership to her role. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education with a concentration in Community Counseling from Salem State University, as well as a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Psychology from Cambridge College.

Throughout her career, Sally has held a variety of roles in residential support services, consistently advocating for person-centered care and community inclusion. Before joining WCI, she served as a therapist with Strattus, where she supported individuals with complex behavioral and emotional needs.

At WCI, Sally currently leads the 24-Hour Supports division, where she continues to champion high-quality, individualized care and support for adults with developmental disabilities.

Aneta Hazen, M.S., MBA
Division Head, Employment & Day Supports and Deaf Residential Supports

Aneta Hazen has led WCI’s Employment and Day Services Division since 2010. In her role, she oversees a wide range of programs including Deaf Employment/Day Supports, Social Skills Development, Community Employment, and the Life Skills Day Habilitation Program and most recently assumed responsibility for Deaf Residential Supports.

With over 20 years of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Aneta brings deep expertise in program management, day habilitation, and case coordination. She also spent six years working with individuals with traumatic brain injuries, helping them access community integration services such as employment, education, and therapeutic supports.

Aneta holds a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Boston University’s Sargent College and an MBA from Simmons College. She is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve greater independence and inclusion in their communities.

Outside of work, Aneta enjoys spending time with her children, going to the beach, running, and cooking.

Jamie Cooper
Executive Administrator & Intake Coordinator

Jamie Cooper has been a vital part of WCI since 2002, serving as Executive Administrator and a central figure in the agency’s operations. Over the years, she has built strong relationships across all WCI departments, the Board of Directors, funding sources, and family members.

In 2018, Jamie expanded her role to include Intake Coordinator responsibilities. She now leads the intake process for all new referrals to WCI—organizing tours, coordinating visits, and working closely with teams to ensure thoughtful and successful placements.

Jamie continues to oversee the Administrative Team and plays a key role in coordinating agency-wide events and fundraisers, including the Wheels of WCI and initiatives led by the Board Development Committee. Her dedication and organizational leadership help keep WCI running smoothly every day.

Sherri Shafmann, M.A.
Clinical Director

Sherri Shafmann joined WCI in 2021 as a Behavior Analyst and was quickly promoted to Clinical Director later that year, reflecting her dedication and expertise in the field. She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the University of Hartford and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Psychology from Smith College.
With over a decade of experience supporting individuals with disabilities, Sherri brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her role. Her previous positions include over seven years as a Behavioral Consultant at the May Institute and more than six years as Clinical Director for the Department of Youth Services at the Connelly Transitional Unit.

Sherri is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Informed Care. She has a strong background in teaching social skills and is passionate about creating supportive, person-centered environments. At WCI, she enjoys engaging directly with individuals in group homes and day programs, fostering meaningful connections and promoting well-being.

Outside of work, Sherri is often accompanied by her beloved pug, Louie, whose gentle snores are a familiar sound during virtual meetings.