GRADUATION CEREMONY HELD FOR MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL RETARDATION DIRECT SUPPORT WORKERS: UPCOMING INFO SESSION ON PROGRAM TO BE HELD

 

(GARDNER)—A graduation ceremony for graduates of the new Direct Support Certificate Program was held at Mount Wachusett Community College, Tues., Aug. 12. The new program, in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Mental Retardation (DMR), is designed to train much-needed direct support workers.

The Direct Support Certificate is a free pilot project designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of direct support workers. It is one of several initiatives the DMR is pursuing to attract and retain a qualified and dedicated workforce. “We are dedicated to workforce development at Mount Wachusett Community College and are very proud of these graduates. We applaud the DMR for their investment in their employees’ education,” said Mount Wachusett Community College President Daniel M. Asquino.

The following graduates were presented with their certificates by MWCC Interim Dean of Academic Affairs Peter Trainor:

Christina Bernier of Charlton
Heather Borelli of Worcester
Suzanne Clearwater of Dudley
Keith Cross of Webster
Deborah Dixson of Hubbardston
Irene Hudson of Shirley
Jenifer Mansfield of Northboro
Patrick Reardon of Fitchburg
Alissa Rivard of Barre
Luis Rodriguez of Worcester
Laura Schultz of Fitchburg
Sandra Strait of Rochdale

The certificate consists of 22 college credits covering topics such as psychology, counseling, interpersonal relations, working in groups, human development and the history of human services. The program can be completed in one-year, attending part-time. The credits can be applied towards an associate’s degree program and later transferred to a Bachelor’s degree program.

The college will hold a free information session to outline the new DMR Certificate program, Thurs., Aug. 21, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Murphy Conference Room.

The program is a unique opportunity for direct support workers to attend college courses as a group and to learn and practice the competencies and skills that are important to their daily work. Upon successful completion of the Certificate, participants will receive a $1,000 annual pay increase. The DMR will cover a portion of the tuition and fees. Students are required to pay $50 per course and are responsible for the purchase of all books and materials.