05/20/26
Randolph, Mass. — May Institute’s signature fundraising event – An Evening of Nurturing Growth, Empowering Potential – raised $378,000, exceeding its goal. Proceeds will fund programmatic and technological enhancements across May Institute’s special education schools, children’s home- and center-based services, adult services programs, and residential group homes.
May Institute is a national leader in applied behavior analysis and evidence-based interdisciplinary care for autistic individuals and individuals with developmental disabilities, brain injury, and neurobehavioral disorders across the lifespan.
“We are extremely grateful for the generosity of the more than 340 friends, donors, corporate partners, family members, members of the Board of Directors, and employees who came together to celebrate and support the organization’s mission,” said Lauren C. Solotar, Ph.D., ABPP, President and CEO of May Institute. “It was an inspiring and deeply meaningful evening as we reflected on lives transformed, milestones reached, and futures made brighter through evidence-based care and partnership.” The event was held at Granite Links Golf Club in Quincy, Mass.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the President’s Award to Paul Pawlowski. For more than three decades, Mr. Pawlowski has been a dedicated partner and champion of May Institute, helping to expand opportunities and improve the lives of the individuals the organization serves. “From supporting the development of vital school and residential programs to lending his leadership, philanthropy, and expertise to major fundraising initiatives, Paul’s impact has been both far-reaching and deeply meaningful,” said Dr. Solotar.
The event also featured powerful remarks from parent speaker Velda Scott, who shared her family’s deeply personal journey navigating autism and the transformative impact of May Institute. Ms. Scott’s remarks underscored the life-changing difference compassionate, individualized, evidence-based care can make for children and families.
During the evening, guests enjoyed music provided by bassist Marshall Wood; guitarist Gray Sargent; saxophonist Michael Monaghan; and drummer Chris Rivelli.
Sincere gratitude to our sponsors:
Champions Circle: lead sponsors, East Bay Pharmacy, Eastern Bank, Cambridge Trust, and Ubeo Business Services.
Advocates Circle: Amplified, Gallagher, HL Holdings, Sheila and Tim Finnerty, and Joan Solotar.
Circle of Independence: Nancy and David Anderson, Brown & Brown, CM General Services, Coastal Heritage Bank, Fenno LLC, Medeiros Real Estate, Mutual of Omaha, Philadelphia Insurance Companies, and Thrive.
To view the event album, click here.
About May Institute
May Institute is a national leader in applied behavior analysis and evidence-based interdisciplinary care for autistic individuals and those with developmental disabilities, brain injury, and neurobehavioral disorders. Founded over 70 years ago as a nonprofit organization, we provide exceptional educational, clinical, and habilitative services across the lifespan—unlocking potential and empowering individuals and families to thrive. As home to the National Autism Center, May advances the field through research that elevates practice globally. For more information, call 800.778.7601 or visit www.mayinstitute.org.