John McGuigan
Chief Executive Officer
John was first welcomed to AHRC Suffolk in 2019 as Chief Operations Officer, followed by his appointment as Chief Executive Officer. John has 30 years experience in supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and has worked in a number of organizations since beginning his career as a Direct Support Professional in a group home setting.
As CEO, John utilizes a mix of strategic management and hands-on leadership experience, with a reputation for focusing on impact and building values-based programs within organizations.
Christopher Veros
Chief Financial Officer
Chris joined the AHRC Suffolk leadership team in 2020 as Director of Finance before his appointment to Chief Financial Officer. He has over 16 years of experience in financial management and leadership, including key financial positions at other Arc chapters.
As CFO, Chris oversees the company’s financial operations, strategic planning and financial reporting. Chris is known for his strong analytical skills, ability to drive financial performance and commitment to fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.
Brian Cabezas
Chief Operating Officer
Brian was welcomed to AHRC Suffolk in 2024 as Chief Program Officer and promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 2025. With 26 years of experience supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Brian has worked in a number of organizations and began his career in a group home setting as a Direct Support Professional.
As COO, Brian helps create practices and policies that lead programs into their next phase of development while bringing people and services together using a people-first model.
Mary Fu
Chief Advancement Officer
Mary began her role as AHRC Suffolk’s Chief Advancement Officer in 2023. Mary has over 25 years of experience in development and prior experience in the financial sector.
As CAO, Mary utilizes her skilled expertise in development and finance to oversee the Foundation and position AHRC Suffolk for future success, growth and sustainability through donor cultivation, fundraising and proactive planning.
Board of directors
Deborah Pflieger
President
Brian O’Reilly
Treasurer
James P. O’Connor
Secretary
Directors
Patricia Craig
Alden B. Kaplan
Maryjo Ruckel
Leadership Team
Marisa Arbutina, Vice President of Adult Day Services
Stephanie Cosentino, Vice President of People and Culture
Shoshanah Denniston, Vice President of Behavioral Health Services
Jeanmarie Drnek, RN, Vice President of Nursing Services
Michael La Paz, Vice President of Administrative Services
Andrea Nickdow, Vice President of Children’s Services
Heather Thorgersen, Vice President of Quality Improvement and Corporate Compliance
Doriann Adams, Director of Staff Development & Education
Laura Casiano, Director of Human Resources
Amanda Demato, Director of People Experience
Danielle Di Stefano, Director of Adult Day Services
Ayse Dincsalman, Director of Residential Services
James Etheridge, Director of Buildings and Grounds
Anastasia M. Florek, Director of Quality Improvement and Corporate Compliance
Thomas Kane, Director of Technology and Information Systems
Kari-Ann Kelly, MS, OTR/L, Director of Related Services & Facilities
Dana E. Luther, Director of Pupil Personnel Services
Desiree Polanish, Director of Behavioral Health Services
Dana Schillinger, Ed.D., Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Wendy Tigchelaar, Director of Guardianship
Joseph Weeks, Director of Residential Services
Stephanie Scaduto, Controller
