May Institute


Julia Burgess, M.S., M.B.A.
Director, Corporate Communications
781.437.1348
jburgess@mayinstitute.org

Susan Lauermann, APR
Director, Public Relations
781.437.1257
slauermann@mayinstitute.org

Inside May

05/13/13
Coming Together After Boston Marathon Bombings
Staff at the Randolph May Center school came together to send messages of support to the Boston community after the Marathon bombings last month. more


04/9/13
It All Starts at Home - Blended family, home-based therapy help young man with autism make his way in the world
As published in the April 2013 issue of Exceptional Parent magazine. more


04/2/13
Does someone you love have autism? Share your story with us!
more


03/4/13
Brain Disorders - Braving the Unknown
As published in the March 2013 issue of Exceptional Parent magazine. more


02/19/13
Step by Step to Success: Helping young adults move out of the classroom and into the community
As published in the October 2012 issue of Exceptional Parent magazine. more


01/29/13
May Students Help Create Winter Wonderland for Newtown's Children
This May Center school helped create a Winter Wonderland for students relocating from Sandy Hook Elementary to their new school in Newtown, Conn. more


01/25/13
High Tech/High Touch - iPad helps boy with autism celebrate his coming of age
As published in the November 2012 issue of Exceptional Parent magazine. more


01/2/13
A New Year's Message from Dr. Solotar, President/CEO
more


12/17/12
Responding to the Connecticut Shootings: Talking to Children About Violence
more


12/16/12
Siblings Teach Each Other About Life
Meet Kyle and Maggie more


10/30/12
Kids with Autism Learn How to Connect, Thanks to CVS Grant
more


09/27/12
Introducing May Institute's 2011 Annual Report
A year of progress and accomplishments at May Institute. Personal stories, facts and figures, and donor listings from 2011. more


09/26/12
"I Ride for Bryanna."
Bob O'Connor talks about his motivation for riding in the Rodman Ride for Kids. more


09/24/12
“Why I Ride...”
One rider shares his reasons for being a part of the Rodman Rid for Kids. more


09/7/12
How Far Would YOU Go to Support Our Programs for Kids with Special Needs?
Would you kiss a pig?? more


06/11/12
Fournier Center Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Brings Family and Friends Together
The Center is the most recent addition to the May Center school campus in Randolph, Mass. Its mission is to help young people with autism secure meaningful employment and achieve greater independence. more


06/11/12
Summer Safety Tips for Parents of Children with Autism and Other Special Needs
In recognition of National Safety Month, we offer the following safety tips for parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and other special needs. more


06/8/12
"When Words Hurt" -- Parent Feedback Playing a Vital Role in Enriching Community Dialogue About Autism
Recent parent surveys, for civilian and military families that had children with autism, are part of a broader initiative to develop communications to help educate the public on how to be more supportive of the autism community. more


05/15/12
Randolph Garden Club, Town Leadership, and Staff Celebrate Arbor Day
The Randolph Garden Club and May Institute commemorated Arbor Day with its own celebration that brought together club members, neighbors, Randolph town officials, children and adults served at May Institute, and staff. more


04/20/12
Guide Developed by National Autism Center and Families Helps Parents Cut Through the Clutter
Parent authors/contributors Janet Amorello and Katherine Bray share their experiences and offer strategies. more


04/1/12
Top 10 Experts' Q&As about Autism
Some of our most popular Q&As authored by our autism experts. more


03/21/12
Parent to Parent: Making Sense of a Catastrophic Brain Injury
More than three years after surviving a traumatic brain injury, the parents of 20-year-old Zack share what the recovery process has looked like for their son, themselves, and their family. more


03/10/12
Technology and Creativity Help Student and Family Realize Milestone
With the support of his family, teachers, and Rabbi -- and some help from his iPad -- Matthew Emmi, a 12-year-old boy with autism, recently celebrated his bar mitvah. more


12/19/11
“Night of Stars” 2011 Prom
The 2011 Randolph May Center prom, a “Night of Stars,” was definitely a night to remember for participating students and their families. more


12/1/11
Calm Amidst Chaos As Tornado Touches Down In Springfield
Kevin Jones, an Assistant Program Coordinator of 20 years, remembers the seconds before the devastating tornado showed up at the doorstep of a W. Springfield residence. more


11/23/11
Giving Thanks to Military Families
During Military Family Appreciation Month in November — and every month — we extend our profound gratitude to military families stationed across the country and throughout the world. more


11/1/11
In Memory of Dr. Allen C. Crocker
Dr. Crocker served on May Institute’s Board of Directors for more than 30 years. Through the years, he became a dear friend, trusted colleague, and invaluable resource to those of us who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. more


10/24/11
Shared Optimism, Work Ethic Breed Independence
What do 83-years-young Gasper and 28-year-old Matt have in common? That’s easy – a big heart, a global healthcare giant, and a deep appreciation of family. more


07/15/11
May Center Student-Athletes Focus on Teamwork in Special Olympics
The May Center Mayhem traveled to Worcester to represent the Institute in the Special Olympics of Massachusetts (SOMA) State Tournament. more


05/25/11
Meet Will: Our Student Government Representative to the Massachusetts State House
Fifteen-year-old Will, a student at our school for children and adolescents with brain injury, recently joined more than 300 teens from across... more


05/15/11
North Carolina Center Hosts Family Social and Easter Egg Hunt
The day was packed with outdoor fun for parents, children, and families. more


05/6/11
May Clinician Dr. Donaldson of the Fernandes Center for Children and Families Completes Leadership Southcoast Program
Each year, the program selects motivated individuals from the south coast of Massachusetts to take part in a ten-month program designed to hone their leadership skills. more


04/10/11
More Named SIM President
Congratulations to Kevin More, M.B.A., our Vice President of Information Systems, who has been elected President of the Boston Society for Information Management (SIM). more


04/2/11
Marking Autism Awareness Month — A message from our CEO
We are as committed as ever to educating communities, treating individuals and families, and advancing the field of autism and developmental disabilities. more


03/10/11
May Institute - 2010 Annual Report
A year of progress and accomplishments at May Institute. Personal stories, facts and figures, and donor listings from 2010. more


03/7/11
Rodman Ride Raises More than $193,000 in 2010 for our Children’s Services
To date, the Rodman Ride For Kids, an umbrella matching gift charity that raises funds for social service agencies that support at-risk kids in Massachusetts, has helped May Institute raise over $600,000... more


02/1/11
Holiday Drawing Contest a Big Success!
Browse through all the great entries in our Holiday Drawing Contest. more


01/28/11
Our California School Welcomes Congressman Farr
The Congressman learned more about the diverse needs of children on the autism spectrum, and about the importance of intensive, individualized treatment. more


01/19/11
May Institute’s Dr. Susan Wilczynski Moderates the Breakthroughs: Autism Panel at Big Think
Joining the discussion were Dr. Gerald D. Fischbach, Dr. Christopher A. Walsh, and Dr. Susan Bookheimer. more


01/14/11
A Common Purpose Unites West Springfield Staff
May Institute employees in western Massachusetts came together to support our children's programs through the 2010 Rodman Ride for Kids. more


01/10/11
Appreciating the Little Things - Randolph Students Shine at Winter Showcase
The event featured a winter-themed art exhibit and musical extravaganza, where students from ages 3 to 22 sang, played, and danced to their favorite songs. more


12/1/10
Fall Festival Celebration in Jacksonville, N.C.
Families enjoyed pony and carriage rides, painting pumpkins, an obstacle course, decorating cookies, and practicing new skills, and then shared a wonderful lunch. more


11/29/10
Celebrating Thomas!
Adorned in his cap and gown and wearing a very big smile, Thomas is a proud high school graduate. more


09/27/10
May Institute Community Pedals to the Rodman Ride Finish Line!
A very successful Rodman Ride for Kids just took place this past weekend! Every dollar we raise through the Ride will directly benefit our children's programs. more


09/20/10
Special Olympics Offers a Different Kind of Classroom
David Ortiz and Phil Mickelson may be two of the biggest names at Fenway Park and on the PGA tour respectively, but they were not the only players shining on the field and on the links this summer. more


09/15/10
Randolph May Center Staff Honored
The entire staff from the May Center residential and teaching community in Randolph, Mass., recently had the opportunity to recognize their peers’ significant contributions to May Institute. more


08/25/10
Thank You for Making our 7th Annual “Summer Swing” Golf Tournament and Family Outing a Success!
Golfers of all levels enjoyed beautiful weather and a day of networking, friendly competition and prizes. Players competed for first and second place... more


08/17/10
In Memory of Dr. O. Ivar Lovaas, Autism Pioneer
May Institute joins the autism community in mourning the loss of one of the true pioneers in the field of autism, O. Ivar Lovaas, Ph.D. This world-renowned expert devoted his life to improving the lives of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and their families. more


08/1/10
Family Fun for Camp Lejeune Children
Families who receive services from the Center came together and shared a meal and playtime. more


07/23/10
May Institute Services for Military Families Expand to Fort Hood in Texas
May Institute is proud to announce the opening of our newest Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas. more


07/15/10
Atlanta Staff Making Strides for Autism
Employees from our Southeast regional office in Atlanta, Ga., recently put on their walking shoes to participate in the Walk Now for Autism Speaks more


07/1/10
A Tribute to Joyce Keenan, RN
Our long-time friend and co-worker Joyce Keenan passed away on June 9, 2010. She worked at the Geriatric-Day Adult Day Health Program in West Roxbury for the past 24 years. more


07/1/10
TBS Students Show Teachers Gratitude and Love
The Bay School recently celebrated its teachers at the school’s first annual “Teacher Appreciation Day.” more


06/30/10
Priscilla Blew Retires After Three Decades Touching Countless Lives
Priscilla has left an indelible mark at May Institute. She has significantly impacted the lives of many hundreds of children from across the country who have benefited from her expertise, compassion, and dedication. more


06/20/10
May Institute Welcomes Icelandic Teachers to Randolph Campus
May Institute was pleased to welcome a group of educators from Iceland this past month. The group, comprised mainly of preschool teachers, visited the Randolph campus to learn about our programs and services more


05/12/10
Safety Event Hits Home for Families and Children with Special Needs
May Institute’s Southeast Regional Autism Center recently teamed up with Safe Kids Columbus to address child safety concerns, including wandering, for children with special needs at the 2nd Annual Salute to Safety held in Columbus, Ga. more


04/27/10
Massachusetts Clubhouse Coalition Honors May Institute
The Institute was one of 38 companies honored at MCC’s annual employer awards dinner held at the State House in Boston. more


04/15/10
Staff and Friends of Woburn May Center “Light It Up Blue”
When the staff at the May Center School in Woburn, Mass., heard about “Light It Up Blue,” they knew it was the perfect way to participate in World Autism Awareness Day. more


03/26/10
May Institute welcomes international experts Drs. Robert and Lynn Koegel for Distinguished Lecture Series
On March 26, 2010, May Institute was delighted to welcome Dr. Robert Koegel and Dr. Lynn Kern Koegel, international experts in the field of autism. more


01/21/10
Rodman Ride Raises More Than $173,000 for Critical Children’s Services at May Institute
Among this year’s distinguished group of riders were May Institute staff, Board of Trustee members, business partners, parents, and friends. more


12/11/09
Massachusetts Representative Jim Dwyer Visits May Center for Child Development in Woburn
Representative Dwyer enjoyed a tour of the school, often stopping to engage individual students in conversation or offering them his signature “high-five.” more


11/19/09
May Institute Welcomes Governor Deval Patrick to Randolph Campus
Governor Patrick visited our corporate headquarters and the Randolph May Center for Child Development school this week. more


11/1/09
May Institute President/CEO weighs in on the importance of early autism diagnosis
A letter from Dr. Walter P. Christian, President and CEO of May Institute, regarding the critical need for early autism diagnosis. more


10/30/09
Help Us Cross the Finish Line!
We are less than $8,000 from reaching our fundraising goal of $150,000 and receiving an additional 15 percent match from the Rodman Ride for Kids. more


10/20/09
Peter F. Gerhardt lectures at May Institute as part of ongoing “Distinguished Lecture Series.”
Dr. Gerhardt gave an engaging and often humorous talk about the challenges of helping individuals on the autism spectrum move from youth to adulthood. more


09/11/09
Exceptional Parent magazine features May Institute services that target military families
For the past several years, May Institute’s Office of Communications has partnered with Exceptional Parent magazine to provide a series of informative articles more


09/11/09
Autism Services for Military Families Expand to North Carolina
May Institute opens a new Southeast Regional Autism Center in Jacksonville, N.C., serving military families in the Camp Lejeune area. more


09/11/09
Family Night At The Brockton Rox Features Live Performance of New Single “All He Has To Say”
Award-winning recording sensation, aika, lights up the stadium with her emotional performance of “All He Has To Say.” more


08/19/09
Going for Gold
Student-Athletes from the May Center for Child Development in Randolph, Mass., Win Medal at Special Olympics. more


07/9/09
May Institute Mourns the Loss of Edward G. Carr, Ph.D.
Edward G. Carr, Ph.D., BCBA, was an international pioneer in autism treatment research and a dear friend and esteemed colleague of May Institute. more


05/15/09
“What Does Autism Look Like?” May Institute and MBTA Promote Autism Awareness
The campaign, featuring large poster and car cards in MBTA stations, was displayed through the month of April, Autism Awareness Month. more


03/18/09
Partnerships and Affiliations
May Institute is committed to expanding its mission by building relationships and developing partnerships. more


01/30/09
California Center Meeting a Need
May Institute opens the new Pediatric Specialty Center in San Jose, Calif. more


11/28/08
A Celebration of Community
May Institute's Towne House Clubhouse Acknowledges Support of Community at Thanksgiving. more


09/27/08
May Institute CEO Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award by Boston Business Journal
Dr. Christian is honored as the 2008 “Champion of Health Care” Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. more


08/14/08
Dr. Dennis C. Russo Named International ABA Fellow
May Institute Chief Clinical Officer named a 2008 Fellow of the Association for Behavior Analysis International. more


08/1/08
May Institute Expands Global Reach; Shares Expertise With International Colleagues
Our expertise in the fields of applied behavior analysis and Positive Behavior Support has helped us forge new alliances with educators in Poland and Iceland. more


08/1/08
A Day to Celebrate! Donors Recognized at Ribbon-Cutting for New Residence
Life-long friends Brendan, Michael, and George have a lovely new home in Easton, Mass., thanks to a group of generous donors and a caring community. more


08/1/08
Prom Night in the Tropics
Students from the May Center for Education and Neurorehabilitation, our school for children and adolescents with brain injury, danced the night away at the schools’ biennial prom. more


08/1/08
The Bay School Open House Draws Over 250 Attendees
“The new setting and program will support one of the most important times in our children’s lives.” more


05/1/08
U.S. Senate Hosts Autism Exhibition
Senator Edward Kennedy among the viewers of the Faces and Voices of Autism photo exhibition on display during Autism Awareness Month. more


04/1/08
May Institute President Named ABA Fellow; Joins Elite International Group
May Institute President and CEO Walter P. Christian, Ph.D., ABPP, has been named a Fellow of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). One of only 47 ABA Fellows worldwide, more


04/1/08
Fernandes Center for Children & Families Celebrates 10th Anniversary
Center marks a decade of providing outpatient care to children who have special healthcare needs with a unique, first-in-the-nation program. more


04/1/08
Teens Hit the Slopes
Teens from our Children’s Services program in Fall River, Mass., skied the slopes at Wachusett Mountain as part of a unique therapeutic outdoor recreation initiative. more


04/1/08
In Memory of Todd R. Risley, Ph.D
Over the past 30 years, Dr. Risley's guidance and support have been major factors in the development of May Institute’s programs and services and its rise to national prominence in the field. more


08/1/07
Brain Injury School Celebrates Graduation!
Families, friends, fellow students, and May Center staff packed the gymnasium on a beautiful spring afternoon to celebrate more


08/1/07
Saluting South Shore Leaders
May Institute and the Massachusetts Department of Mental Retardation’s (DMR) South Coastal Area Citizen Advisory Board recently honored legislators and community leaders. more


04/1/07
May Institute Joins $1.2M UMass Study; Autism Speaks Grant Focuses on Early Intervention
Proponents hope the study will positively impact long-term outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorders. more


04/1/07
Winterfest Warms Hearts in Woburn
Moms, dads, grandparents, siblings, and friends gathered recently at the Woburn May Center school for children with autism to celebrate Winterfest! more


04/1/07
Daring Dippers!
Nineteen very brave and fun-spirited teachers and staff from two of our Centers recently took an icy, early morning plunge into the waters of Nantasket Beach. more