The Arc of New Jersey, the state’s leading organization advocating for and serving children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families, announced that Céline R. Fortin, MSW, LSW and associate executive director, has been elevated to the role of executive director.
Fortin has been with The Arc of New Jersey for more than 30 years and takes the reins of the organization from the previous executive director, Tom Baffuto, who retired earlier this year.
Fortin will be responsible for working directly with government agencies, stakeholders, the board and local chapters to further the mission of The Arc of New Jersey and help advance the work done on behalf of those whom the organization supports throughout the state.
“I am honored and humbled to serve as the next executive director of The Arc of New Jersey,” said Fortin. “I was privileged to have served alongside Tom Baffuto for more than 25 years, and I am inheriting a mantle shaped by excellence. I’m eager to continue to build on his legacy and provide new ideas and a vision for The Arc of New Jersey to fuel our growth and drive our mission forward as we effect change, shape policy and drive inclusion for those with disabilities.”
Fortin brings extensive experience to the role with a career that includes more than 40 years of service to the IDD and mental health communities. She joined The Arc of New Jersey in 1990 as a research assistant, and since then, has held several director-level roles, most recently serving alongside Baffuto as associate executive director.
Across each role, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advocacy and being a voice for individuals and families as they navigate and face challenges that are often overlooked. A licensed social worker in the state of New Jersey (L.S.W.), Fortin earned a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) with a minor in developmental disabilities from Rutgers University.
“There is no one more qualified than Céline to guide The Arc of New Jersey forward as we leverage our strengths and dial up the impact we’re having across the state,” said Lauren Zalepka, board president, The Arc of New Jersey. “Her passion for advocacy is unmatched and the experience she brings to the table, especially with supporting the board and our local chapters, is exactly what’s needed as we focus on the future.
“We also extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to Michael Prendergast for his exceptional leadership and filling the role of interim executive director for The Arc of New Jersey during this transition period. We’re looking forward to seeing Céline at the helm and are eager to see her visionary leadership take root in the coming months.”
