Stavros Center Welcomes Donna Decoteau, Christina Gay to Board of Directors

AMHERST — Stavros Center for Independent Living announced that Donna Decoteau and Christina Gay have joined its board of directors. Both bring extensive professional experience, a strong commitment to community service, and a shared belief in the right of people with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in their communities.

Decoteau is a retired accounting professional from the Greater Hartford area whose career included many years with Ahlstrom-Munksjö USA Inc. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and business management from Western New England University. In addition to her professional experience in finance and management, she brings a personal understanding of disability, caregiving, advocacy, and the importance of supporting dignity and choice. She has also served her church for the past 24 years as treasurer and a member of its board of trustees. She currently serves as trustee and treasurer for the Gardens of Wilbraham condominium community.

Gay is senior vice president and senior Human Resources officer at Greenfield Savings Bank. She is also a licensed certified social worker who has lived and worked in Western Mass. for more than 20 years. She brings considerable experience in human resources, organizational leadership, social work, and community engagement. She previously served on the board of directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Franklin County and recently joined the board of the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts. She is proud to support Stavros, whose mission is close to her heart, and to advocate for the independence, inclusion, and success of people with disabilities.

“Donna and Christina each bring valuable experience, thoughtful leadership, and a clear commitment to the people and communities we serve,” said Angelina Ramirez, Stavros CEO. “Their perspectives will strengthen our board and help guide Stavros as we continue working alongside people with disabilities to remove barriers, expand opportunities, and protect the right to live in the community.”

As members of the Stavros board of directors, Decoteau and Gay will help provide strategic oversight, support the organization’s mission, and contribute to the continued development of programs and services led by and for people with disabilities.