The Arc of New Jersey, an advocate for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, said June 19 that its long-serving executive director, Tom Baffuto, will retire June 30. He has been serving at the North Brunswick-based advocacy organization for 27 years as executive director.
The board of directors has named Assistant Executive Director Michael Prendergast as the interim Executive Director. He will serve in that capacity starting July 1, 2025.
Under Baffuto’s leadership, The Arc of NJ said the advocacy group was able to have “a tremendous impact on disability issues in the State, shaping policies and effecting change.” He developed many new programs, grew the agency to meet the evolving needs of people with IDD and their families, and was a consistent and formidable voice for the disability community at the State capital.
“Working at The Arc of New Jersey for almost the entirety of my career was the honor of a lifetime,” Baffuto said. “The mission of the agency deeply resonates with me and I believe fully in the tenets that drive the organization. It’s been a privilege to serve as executive director for the past 27 years, to represent people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, and to advocate each and every day for the services, support, and equality that they deserve.”
Baffuto’s statewide advocacy has resulted in successful campaigns on issues such as the Waiting List for services, increasing wages for Direct Support Professionals, and increasing rates in the fee-for service system.
“For the past four decades, Tom has dedicated his life to supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the belief that everyone deserves to live a full, inclusive and meaningful life in the community,” said The Arc of New Jersey’s Board President Kevin Sturges.
Michael Prendergast has been with The Arc of New Jersey for 27 years, serving as the agency’s Assistant Executive Director. In that role, Prendergast oversees the finance and human resources departments.
