BFAIR Names Theresa Denette Interim Chief Operating Officer
NORTH ADAMS — BFAIR announced the appointment of Theresa Denette as interim chief operating officer. A dedicated leader with more than two decades of service to the organization, she brings deep operational knowledge, program expertise, and a longstanding commitment to BFAIR’s mission of supporting individuals with disabilities and their families.
Denette began her career with BFAIR in 2001 as assistant program director for the Day Habilitation Center. Shortly after joining the organization, she was promoted to program director, a role she held until 2010. During this time, she led program development, oversaw individual support planning and implementation, and supervised and supported staff, laying the groundwork for a career defined by strong leadership and program growth.
In 2016, Denette was promoted to director of Day Service Operations, where she oversaw the Day Habilitation Center, Community Based Day Services, Employment Services, and the newly developed ABI – Money Follows the Person service component. Her leadership during this time was instrumental in strengthening program quality and supporting the continued growth and satisfaction of BFAIR’s Day Services.
Following an organizational management restructuring in 2018, Denette was promoted to senior vice president of Day Services and assumed oversight of BFAIR’s Quality Assurance department. Under her leadership, the agency advanced its technological capabilities and strengthened quality and compliance systems, helping position BFAIR for continued innovation and accountability.
In 2022, as BFAIR transitioned its Family & Individual Supports and Adult Family Care programs to a community service program model, Denette’s responsibilities expanded to include guidance and oversight of those programs, Clinical Services, and Day Services programs. In recognition of her leadership and impact, she was promoted to senior vice president of Operations.
“Theresa’s deep institutional knowledge, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering dedication to the individuals and families we serve make her exceptionally well-suited for this role,” said Ethel Altiery, interim CEO. “Her experience across multiple programs and operational areas will help ensure continuity and continued excellence during this transitional period.”
Denette’s career in human services began in 1998 as a paraprofessional at Adams Memorial Middle School, where she supported students in the Special Education department and gained experience with the individualized education program process.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in social science from Westfield State College and earned her MBA in 2022 from Southern New Hampshire University, where she received the Distinguished Scholar Award. She received a graduate certificate in human resources from Fitchburg State University in 2024.
In addition to her professional work, Denette serves as president of the board of directors for the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition and is a member of the McCann Business Technology advisory board.