BFAIR, UCP Announce Merger Progress, Leadership Transition, CEO Appointment
PITTSFIELD and NORTH ADAMS — BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts announced a significant milestone in their ongoing merger exploration, including a leadership transition that will position the combined organization for continued growth and impact in serving individuals with disabilities and their families across the region.
Following a joint agreement by the boards of directors of both BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts, Randy Kinnas has been appointed CEO of both organizations. This appointment marks a pivotal step in the unification process, establishing a single, unified executive leadership structure to guide the merged entity through its next chapter.
“We are proud to move forward together under unified leadership,” said Randy Kinnas, CEO of BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts. “This merger represents a shared commitment to expanding the quality and reach of services for the individuals and families we are privileged to serve. Together, we are stronger.”
Both boards also recognize and celebrate the retirement of Ethel Altiery, who served as interim CEO. “Her steady, compassionate leadership during a critical period of transition has been invaluable to both organizations,” the board stated. “Altiery’s guidance helped lay the foundation for the unified future that BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts now pursue.”
Added Kinnas, “Ethel’s leadership during this transition has been a true gift to both organizations and to the people we serve. We are deeply grateful for her dedication, her wisdom, and her heart. We wish her all the best in a well-deserved retirement.”
The merger of BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts brings together two longstanding organizations with a shared mission: to support individuals with disabilities in living full, meaningful, and self-directed lives. By combining resources, expertise, and community relationships, the merged organization will be better equipped to expand services, strengthen programs, and advocate for those who depend on them.
Both boards of directors have approved this leadership structure as part of the broader integration plan, reflecting their confidence in a unified future that honors the legacy of both organizations while embracing new opportunities for impact.