Press Release: 3/30/2026

The Arc of Massachusetts Celebrates Progress and Possibility for Individuals with IDD and Autism at Annual Gala

 

By KaterinaMarch 27, 2026

 

 

Hon. Denise Garlick, Brian Kremer, and Dr. Dorothy W. Tolchin Recognized as Partners in Progress

WALTHAM, Mass. (March 27, 2026) – The Arc of Massachusetts, the leading advocacy organization for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism, celebrated Progress and Possibility for its community last night at its annual gala at the UMass Club in Boston.

This year’s event highlighted three Partners in Progress, whose work advances opportunities and rights for people with IDD and autism: Hon. Denise Garlick, Chair of the Massachusetts Permanent Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities (MCSPD); Brian Kremer, Executive Director of Massachusetts Advocates Standing Strong (MASS); and Dr. Dorothy W. Tolchin, Director of Disability Education at Harvard Medical School.

“The Progress and Possibility Gala is more than a celebration. It is a reflection of who we are as a community and what we believe is possible when we come together with purpose and resolve,” said Maura Sullivan, CEO of The Arc of Massachusetts. “At a time when individuals with IDD and autism face real and evolving challenges – from workforce shortages to uncertainty in public policy – we are reminded that progress has never happened by accident. It has always been driven by people willing to lead, to listen, and to stand alongside one another – including our Partners in Progress Denise, Brian, and Dorothy. We are honored to celebrate their contributions to our community.”

Garlick was recognized for her years of service in the legislature, where she was an extraordinary champion of The Arc’s priorities including the workforce and health equity. She now serves as the Chair of the MCSPD, educating the legislature and the broader public about the needs of the disability community. The Arc is grateful to be a close partner in this work.

Kremer was honored for his work partnering with The Arc to ensure that the voices of self-advocates are heard by the legislature. As the leader of MASS, he has created opportunities for people with IDD and autism to play a meaningful role in shaping policy. The Arc is grateful for his partnership in our legislative coalition and as a sibling in our Operation House Call program.

Dr. Tolchin was recognized for her work in inclusive healthcare at Harvard. She championed bringing The Arc’s Operation House Call program, which teaches future medical professionals how to care for people with IDD and autism, to all Harvard medical and dental students. The Arc is grateful that our partnership continues to grow.

The annual gala is The Arc of Massachusetts’ largest fundraising event. “We are so grateful to our Presenting sponsors Tracy and John Atkinson, as well as Advocates, Inc.; EY; Fletcher Tilton; KPMG; John, Susan, and James Nadworny; Janet and Arthur Rico; and RTX. Their contributions make The Arc’s work possible,” said Sullivan.

About The Arc of Massachusetts 

The Arc of Massachusetts (The Arc) is a statewide organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. Through advocacy, education, and outreach, The Arc works to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives and participate fully in their communities. Visit www.thearcofmass.org to learn more. 

Photo credit: Terrence Adderley Photography.