Julia Barol
Julia Barol has been with Networks for Training and Development, Inc. since 2007 as Director of Special Projects. In this role, she is involved with several projects related to transition-age youth in Philadelphia, including co-chairing the Transition work group within the Employment 1st Philadelphia initiative and coordinating the Transition Planning Project. Julia helped to develop the employer-based video for Philadelphia's "One City, One Vision", which focuses on promoting increased employer awareness of the benefits of hiring people with disabilities. She conducts trainings to small groups and agencies on Social Security and work incentives as well as an overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act. More specifically, Julia is a Certified Benefits Specialist through Virginia Commonwealth University and has worked with Social Security beneficiaries since 2001. She is a graduate of the Communication Mentors' Course and is certified to provide accessibility support to businesses under Title 3 of the ADA through the Mid Atlantic DBTAC. Julia currently serves on the board of PA APSE. She chaired the Philadelphia Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities from 1995 to 2008 and has also been involved in the Accessibility Advisory Board for Philadelphia's PA CareerLinks since 2004. Julia has been working with and supporting individuals with disabilities since 1991. Most recently she has obtained a graduate certificate through the George Washington University in Transition and Special Education, and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Secondary Special Education and Transition through GWU. In her spare time Julia enjoys her family, gardening, travel, and baking bread.
Dana Bowser, M.S.W.
Dana Bowser has a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Foreign Language Education from Temple University, as well as a Master's Degree in Social Work from Temple University. Dana is a recent graduate of the Communication Mentor's Course (2010). She has always been interested in communication, the existing barriers that exist, and has always wanted to work with teams to explore possibilities with helping individuals to communicate more thoroughly and be understood. Dana has been in the human services field for approximately 14 years. She has worked with children as young as 4 years olds and has also worked with retired senior citizens. Dana is also a part of the original group that created "Communication Champions" in Philadelphia County at the Office of Intellectual disAbility services. She serves as a communication champion/liaison at her full time place of employment (Partnership For Community Supports) in Philadelphia. Dana has always had a strong interest in the arts such as writing, singing, dancing and performing and believes that each of these is a form of self-expression. Dana hopes to one day incorporate the arts with communication, as she feels the options are endless. In her free time, Dana enjoys writing and recording songs, writing poetry, dancing, working out, and spending time with her family (husband-Mark, son-Justin, step-daughter-Justice, and spoiled shih tzu-Toi Lina). Dana is very anxious and excited to be on board with Networks and is looking forward to working to further develop skills and relationships!
George
Callaway
George Callaway is the Senior Clerical Specialist at Networks for Training and Development, Inc. He has been working for Networks since 1992, having worked at Networks longer than any other employee! First and foremost, George is most proud of his love of travelling around the city of Philadelphia, especially on SEPTA (public transportation system). He has a knack for making friends around town and loves showing others how to get almost anywhere. At Networks, George puts together training packets, makes copies, and maintains the evaluation database for Networks’ many training activities. George also facilitates or assists several training sessions such about his work, his passions, and his many areas of brilliance! He has presented nationally and is an active member of Speaking for Ourselves, a self-advocacy organization in PA. George is the Co-Chairperson of the Public Awareness Committee for Phila. Dept. of Behavioral Health / Mental Retardation Services. He enjoys taking trips and joining his co-workers at many retreats and conferences, including Milwaukee, Baltimore, Pittsburgh and the New Jersey shore. Don’t be surprised if you see George around town!
Ramenta Cottrell, M.Ed.
Ramenta Cottrell, M.Ed. officially joined Networks for Training and Development, Inc. on a part-time basis in January of 2011 as a member of the Assistive Technology and Transition / Inclusive Education teams. After completing Networks' Communication Mentors' Course in 2009, Ramenta continued her work supporting individuals transitioning from institutions to independent living. She currently lives in Maryland and works full-time as an Employment Specialist for The League of Baltimore. Other duties involve developing Person-Centered Planning and Self-Advocacy training, as well as youth advocacy for foster children in Baltimore County. Her educational background includes Bachelor degrees in Psychology and Spanish from Temple University and a Master's in Special Education from Arcadia University. Ramenta expects to complete a Master's in Counseling Psychology in May of 2012 with concentrations in Family & Child and Trauma therapy. Future aspirations include providing family and individual support for trauma victims with developmental disabilities. In her spare time, Ramenta enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, traveling, and listening to music.
Suzanne Erb, M.S.
Suzanne Erb, M.S. brings to Networks 25 years of work experience in both the disability and welfare to work fields. With an M.S. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, Ms. Erb has not only counseled both disabled and non-disabled job seekers, but has also supervised others in those fields. Her most recent positions have been with JEVS Human Services and Abilitech. In her role as an advocate, Ms. Erb currently chairs the City of Philadelphia Mayor's Commission on People with Disabilities, is the Secretary of the Board of Directors of the Tenants Union Representative Network, and also serves on the Board of Directors of the Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania. She also serves on the Business Advisory Council of the Marriott Foundation - Bridges From School to Work, and the Pennsylvania Institute on Disabilities Consumer Advisory Council. As a blind person, Ms. Erb uses assistive technology both personally and professionally. She uses both Windows and Mac operating systems.
Stacey Figueroa
Stacey Figueroa joined the Networks for Development, Inc. team in August 2008. Prior to this, Stacey had worked in various non-profit children's programs, including environmental education, health & wellness programs, and summer camps. At Networks, Stacey is an Employment Specialist and works daily to support individuals on the job. Other projects at Networks include organizing the library and helping out where needed. In December 2009, Stacey successfully completed the Communication Mentors' Course. Since then, she has continued to work with the community of Mentors to help individuals with their communication needs and supports. Currently, Stacey is attending Cabrini University as a part-time student with goals to complete her Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts. In her free time, she has many passions that include children, outdoor activities, photography, and various travel adventures.
Nancy Jo Geise
Nancy Jo is the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Liaison at Networks for Training and Development, Inc.’s Northcentral PA office, joining the team in April 2009. Nancy Jo enjoys working with the communication devices and Assistive Technology. She was a guest speaker on WKOK radio for a feature story on the Communication Mentors’ Network and the positive effects communication devices can have for people with disabilities. She is a member of the Community Unity and Ampes programs of Northumberland County, while also being an active member in her church. She looks forward to meeting new people, learning, and growing.
Jill Gromen, M.S.W.
Jill Gromen, M.S.W. is the Assistant Executive Director for Networks for Training and Development, Inc. Jill has been involved with Networks in various capacities for more than 9 years as an employee and as a consultant helping with several projects as well as serving as a member of the Board of Directors for 4 years. She is also a graduate of the 2009 Communication Mentors’ Course. With over 20 years of experience, Jill’s background includes direct support, supports coordination, program planning and development, training coordination and delivery, and Person Centered Planning. In her current role, Jill provides overall administrative support to the organization, plans for and implements the development of new projects and organizational directions, works with funders, and develops marketing materials. A constant throughout Jill’s career is her fundamental belief that our well-being is tied to inclusive communities that hear and respect everyone’s voice. Jill loves spending time with her husband and 3 boys, and with her extended family and friends. She balances work with all kinds of outdoor fun and involvement in community and volunteer activities, as well as watching lots of soccer games.
Doris
Kalina
Doris Kalina began working at Networks for Training and Development, Inc. in 1998 as Administrative Specialist and is presently the Director of Administrative Services. She was previously employed by another nonprofit as assistant to the Executive Director, handling financial responsibilities there for 12 years. Doris also taught for the School District of Philadelphia for 4 ˝ years. Her areas of expertise within Networks are office management and organization with oversight of all of Networks’ organizational offices, billing, and Human Resources. Doris is also an accomplished musician performing regularly and is a proud mother and grandmother.
Tracy Katz, M.Ed.
Tracy Katz, M.Ed. attended both undergrad and graduate school at Virginia Commonwealth University earning a BME (Bachelor of Music Education) and Master of Special Education. During her master's program Tracy began working in the research department of VCU Rehabilitation Research and Training Center. Eventually she began working as a job coach providing job development, placement and training for individuals who had suffered a traumatic brain injury. In 1991 Tracy moved to PA and continued to work as a job and life skills coach through Hershey Med Center throughout the central Pennsylvania area. After settling in the area Tracy began working in the middle and high school with students both as an academic and daily living skills classroom teacher for students with learning disabilities as well as classroom support for the school work program in which all of the high school students participated. Tracy took some time "off" to raise her family but continued to work as a home based business manager with Discovery Toys helping to educate parents about the power of play. Tracy is currently working as a part time consultant with Networks filling in where needed as well as substitute teaching in her local school district and continuing to teach private clarinet lessons. Life (and two teenage boys) keeps her busy but her passion to help people with disabilities pursue and realize a fulfilling life which includes independent living and job accessibility for everyone keeps her excited!
Diane
Kehoe
Diane Kehoe graduated from Eastern University with a degree in Organizational Management. Currently our Director of Technology Services, Diane began her service with Networks for Training and Development, Inc. facilitating career planning for individuals leaving Embreeville State Hospital. She continued her work as Director of CareerNet, a small demonstration project focused on finding meaningful community employment for people with significant disabilities in Philadelphia. Diane now assists Networks with its overall technology needs and services. Her passion is to ensure universal design of the technology used here at Networks, as well as assisting our customers in accessing and utilizing the various technologies available to them through alternative software, accommodations, and built-in accessibility features. Diane continues to conduct training in various topic areas seeking out new information in the areas of universal design, and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Instructional Technology in Education. At home you can find Diane enjoying computers, reading, music, and her dog.
Michael
Landes, M.Ed.
Michael Landes, M.Ed. is the Webmaster for Networks for Training and Development, Inc. He is also a special education teacher in Maui, where he co-teaches in inclusive 9th and 10th grade social studies classes. Michael has focused on supporting all individuals to live rich and meaningful lives as valued community members. He has held a variety of positions, including direct support in a community-based day program, program coordination for an independent living program, communication development and technical assistance, interactive curriculum development, and website development. Michael was a member of Philadelphia’s first graduating class of the Communication Mentors’ Course, and he continues to search for new ideas to assist people in finding effective communication systems and assistive technologies. In his free time, Michael enjoys surfing, scuba diving, music, hockey, and going to the beach with his son.
Rosa McAllister, M.Ed., A.T.P., R.M., L.M.T.
Rosa McAllister, M.Ed., A.T.P., R.M., L.M.T. is the co-founder of Networks for Training and Development, Inc. and currently acts primarily as the organizational historian, staff advisor / mentor, and overall Mom! Rosa continues to lead the Communication Mentors’ Course, which she developed several years ago to help others better hear the communication in everyone. Rosa also continues to teach graduate school part-time at Arcadia University in the area of instructional and assistive technology. Additionally, she has studied various styles of energy and body work and is now assisting Networks to develop their new area of practice, Wholistic Practices, focusing on assisting people with disabilities and their supporters to live comfortably, in control, harmony, and good health. Rosa splits her time and life between PA and Maui, HI where she is furthering her body work studies, collaborating with groups there, and enjoying island life and her grandson, Ethan.
Jennifer McCary, M.Ed.
Jennifer McCary has a B.A. in Elementary / Special Education and an M.Ed. in Special Education and has been formally working with individuals with disabilities for almost two decades. Jen’s experience includes assisting people within schools, in their communities, and in the workplace to be more independent, to better show their skills and intelligence, and to “fit in” and make friends. She has a keen interest in assistive technology, Augmentative and Alterenative Communication (AAC) and inclusion, and has been a part of the Networks’ family for many years in a variety of roles. Jen has rejoined Networks to help in the coordination of school-based projects. Jen is also the proud Mom of Liam and is enjoying her role in raising and enjoying him!
Joe Murphy
Joe Murphy is the Supports and Technology Coordinator with Networks for Training and Development, Inc. where he lends assistance to various people and projects regarding employment and Assistive Technology (AT). While not initially involved in the field of developmental disabilities, Joe discovered his passion after meeting a person and her supporters at a community pool and offered to lend a hand. Since then (1997), Joe has worked within various community support projects always coaching people to live full and independent lives, always striving towards their best. He is also an active member of various community groups in and around Philadelphia including the Frankford Boys Club, and Our Lady of Ransom Church. Joe is a graduate of Philadelphia’s first Communication Mentors’ Course, the Employment Mentors’ Course, and many other programs re: employment and / or AT, has received certification in life coaching for business. Joe resides in Philadelphia, PA with his wife and 2 children. During his spare time Joe is the defensive backs coach for Neuman Goretti High School’s football team.
Marianne Roche, M.Ed.
Marianne Roche describes herself as an 'old shoe'. For almost forty years, she has worked with and for people with disabilities and has always enjoyed the wonderful people she has been blessed to know. Currently Marianne is 'outsourced' to Philadelphia MRS where she works in a variety of areas including Supports Coordination, public awareness, transition from school to work and the inclusion of students with disabilities in their neighborhood schools. Marianne is very involved in a new facet of Networks expanision--the Wholistic Practices work--- and is particularly interested in opening up opportunities for people we serve and their caregivers. Additionally Marianne, with the able assistance of Networks, helped to establish the Nancy Cordon Trust, named in honor of her late sister. This Trust provides short term financial assistance to people with special needs and their families Marianne lives in Oreland Pa, with her sainted and tolerant husband, Jim, a math teacher at LaSalle High School.
Shauna Roman, M.S.
Shauna Roman, M.S. is the new Executive Director of Networks for Training and Development, Inc. For many years in the field of disabilities, Shauna has been involved with people with developmental disabilities, their families, and supporters to increase understanding, provide support, and encourage people to live more inclusive lives. As a Qualified Facilitator of The Leadership Challenge® (Kouzes and Posner), Shauna is interested in creating organizational learning opportunities through the use of assessment tools, training, and innovative consultative practices. Her current project involvement includes: the "Employment 1st Philadelphia" initiative and school-to-community transition planning efforts. Within these projects, Shauna provides value-based leadership, strategic planning, and mentoring. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, music of all kinds, and travel.
Julie Sozio, M.H.S.
Julie Sozio, M.H.S. started working at Networks for Training and Development, Inc. in September 2008 and has extensive experience supporting people who experience a variety of disabilities for over 20 years. She has worked in the capacity of Director of Employment, Director of Residential Services, and Program Administrator overseeing both residential and employment teams for a non-profit agency in Bucks County, PA. Julie is a 2007 graduate of the Communication Mentors’ Course and assists in a variety of trainings along with providing support regarding Assistive Technology (AT). Her main focus and passion is community integrated employment (CIE). Julie’s free time is spent with her grandsons, traveling, and working with stained glass.
Jessica Stover, M.S., A.T.P.
Jessica Stover, M.S., A.T.P. is the Coordinator of The Communication Mentors' Network at Networks for Training and Development, Inc. since 2006 and is a RESNA (Rehabilitation and Engineering Society of North America) certified Assistive Technology Practitioner (ATP). With experience in low to high technologies, Jessica continues to assist people to live the lives they wish at home, work, school, or play. Jessica has a special interest in switch access as related to body mechanics and movement and has studied and practiced in a variety of methods pertaining to AT. She has presented and co-presented at national, regional, and local conferences and trainings to assist people and their teams to hear and recognize communication, live their dreams, upholds the mantra “Everyone Communicates!” and assists people to “notice what you notice” through innovative (and sometimes very easy and simple) supports and systems of AT.
Andrew Vizuete
Andrew Vizuete is the IT Support and Service Specialist for Networks for Training and Development, Inc. He helps design Networks’ many marketing materials, helps maintain our training database (OCRS) which includes registering people for training and inputting attendants. Andrew also assists trainers with presentations, demonstrating his use of various Assistive Technologies. He has many interests such as watching sports, TV and movies, listening to music, and having fun. And he is currently working on the development of his life story with regards to his use of Assistive Technology and getting a job for training presentations and to inspire others.
Paul Bartolemeo, Esq.
While we are small in numbers, Networks is large in its voice, impact, and reputation. But ours is not that of one voice, one opinion, or one being. Networks is and always has been a small band of warriors, a sometimes mis-matched group of dreamers, and a most uncommon collection of personalities. Over our 15 years, this group has changed somewhat to reflect “the times” and certain initiatives or areas of focus, but many have remained constant and all have left their imprint on who and what Networks is today. Not always popular, we are known to be outspoken and forthright and this passion continues to push us to push others whether it’s the belief that everyone can and should work to the recognition that everyone communicates. Our motto continues that communities are for everyone and our role is to help everyone build more tolerant, respectful, and inclusive communities. Scroll over the names of our staff to learn more about them. Clicking on their names will take you to their email.
Mike Fitipaldi
While we are small in numbers, Networks is large in its voice, impact, and reputation. But ours is not that of one voice, one opinion, or one being. Networks is and always has been a small band of warriors, a sometimes mis-matched group of dreamers, and a most uncommon collection of personalities. Over our 15 years, this group has changed somewhat to reflect “the times” and certain initiatives or areas of focus, but many have remained constant and all have left their imprint on who and what Networks is today. Not always popular, we are known to be outspoken and forthright and this passion continues to push us to push others whether it’s the belief that everyone can and should work to the recognition that everyone communicates. Our motto continues that communities are for everyone and our role is to help everyone build more tolerant, respectful, and inclusive communities. Scroll over the names of our staff to learn more about them. Clicking on their names will take you to their email.
Jill Gromen, M.S.W.
Jill Gromen, M.S.W. is the Assistant Executive Director for Networks for Training and Development, Inc. Jill has been involved with Networks in various capacities for more than 9 years as an employee and as a consultant helping with several projects as well as serving as a member of the Board of Directors for 4 years. She is also a graduate of the 2009 Communication Mentors’ Course. With over 20 years of experience, Jill’s background includes direct support, supports coordination, program planning and development, training coordination and delivery, and Person Centered Planning. In her current role, Jill provides overall administrative support to the organization, plans for and implements the development of new projects and organizational directions, works with funders, and develops marketing materials. A constant throughout Jill’s career is her fundamental belief that our well-being is tied to inclusive communities that hear and respect everyone’s voice. Jill loves spending time with her husband and 3 boys, and with her extended family and friends. She balances work with all kinds of outdoor fun and involvement in community and volunteer activities, as well as watching lots of soccer games.
Ruth Landsman
While we are small in numbers, Networks is large in its voice, impact, and reputation. But ours is not that of one voice, one opinion, or one being. Networks is and always has been a small band of warriors, a sometimes mis-matched group of dreamers, and a most uncommon collection of personalities. Over our 15 years, this group has changed somewhat to reflect “the times” and certain initiatives or areas of focus, but many have remained constant and all have left their imprint on who and what Networks is today. Not always popular, we are known to be outspoken and forthright and this passion continues to push us to push others whether it’s the belief that everyone can and should work to the recognition that everyone communicates. Our motto continues that communities are for everyone and our role is to help everyone build more tolerant, respectful, and inclusive communities. Scroll over the names of our staff to learn more about them. Clicking on their names will take you to their email.
Rosa McAllister, M.Ed., A.T.P., R.M., L.M.T.
Rosa McAllister, M.Ed., A.T.P., R.M., L.M.T. is the co-founder of Networks for Training and Development, Inc. and currently acts primarily as the organizational historian, staff advisor / mentor, and overall Mom! Rosa continues to lead the Communication Mentors' Course, which she developed several years ago to help others better hear the communication in everyone. Rosa also continues to teach graduate school part-time at Arcadia University in the area of instructional and assistive technology. Additionally, she has studied various styles of energy and body work and is now assisting Networks to develop their new area of practice, Wholistic Practices, focusing on assisting people with disabilities and their supporters to live comfortably, in control, harmony, and good health. Rosa splits her time and life between PA and Maui, HI where she is furthering her body work studies, collaborating with groups there, and enjoying island life and her grandson, Ethan.
Steve Nasuti
While we are small in numbers, Networks is large in its voice, impact, and reputation. But ours is not that of one voice, one opinion, or one being. Networks is and always has been a small band of warriors, a sometimes mis-matched group of dreamers, and a most uncommon collection of personalities. Over our 15 years, this group has changed somewhat to reflect “the times” and certain initiatives or areas of focus, but many have remained constant and all have left their imprint on who and what Networks is today. Not always popular, we are known to be outspoken and forthright and this passion continues to push us to push others whether it’s the belief that everyone can and should work to the recognition that everyone communicates. Our motto continues that communities are for everyone and our role is to help everyone build more tolerant, respectful, and inclusive communities. Scroll over the names of our staff to learn more about them. Clicking on their names will take you to their email.
Shauna Roman, M.S.
Shauna Roman, M.S. is the new Executive Director of Networks for Training and Development, Inc. For many years in the field of disabilities, Shauna has been involved with people with developmental disabilities, their families, and supporters to increase understanding, provide support, and encourage people to live more inclusive lives. As a Qualified Facilitator of The Leadership Challenge® (Kouzes and Posner), Shauna is interested in creating organizational learning opportunities through the use of assessment tools, training, and innovative consultative practices. Her current project involvement includes: the "Employment 1st Philadelphia" initiative and school-to-community transition planning efforts. Within these projects, Shauna provides value-based leadership, strategic planning, and mentoring. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, music of all kinds, and travel.
Michelle
Sparling, M.Ed.
While we are small in numbers, Networks is large in its voice, impact, and reputation. But ours is not that of one voice, one opinion, or one being. Networks is and always has been a small band of warriors, a sometimes mis-matched group of dreamers, and a most uncommon collection of personalities. Over our 15 years, this group has changed somewhat to reflect “the times” and certain initiatives or areas of focus, but many have remained constant and all have left their imprint on who and what Networks is today. Not always popular, we are known to be outspoken and forthright and this passion continues to push us to push others whether it’s the belief that everyone can and should work to the recognition that everyone communicates. Our motto continues that communities are for everyone and our role is to help everyone build more tolerant, respectful, and inclusive communities. Scroll over the names of our staff to learn more about them. Clicking on their names will take you to their email.
