Thom Child and Family Services is thrilled to announce the recipients of the Phyllis A. Fazzio Scholarship Program for fiscal year 2027. Seven dedicated employees will receive funding to pursue specialized training, enhancing their skills and ultimately impacting the lives of children and families we serve.
Expanding Lactation and Feeding Support
Three of this year’s scholars are pursuing lactation certification to bring specialized breastfeeding and feeding support directly into their programs:
- Chelsey Anderson (Speech Language Pathologist, Thom Westfield Infant Toddler Services): Will complete the Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) training course, building on her SLP feeding and swallowing expertise to support new mothers through their breastfeeding journeys.
- Diane Rhyee (Occupational Therapist, Thom Worcester Area): Will pursue Lactation Counselor Training and CLC certification, deepening her ability to assess feeding challenges tied to oral-motor skills, positioning, and the caregiver-infant dynamic.
- Jenna Swabowicz (Speech Language Pathologist, Thom Boston Metro): Will earn her CLC certification, with a focus on supporting breastfeeding families managing complex medical needs, including prematurity and genetic differences.
Bringing Music and Movement into Early Intervention
Two scholars will deepen their skills in music and dance therapy techniques, expanding group and individual programming for the children and families they serve:
- Jamie Bernstein (Developmental Specialist, Thom Boston Metro): Will complete Intellidance Teacher Certification, gaining tools in early childhood dance and music education to expand group programming at her site.
- Rebekah Raffalski (Music Therapist, Thom Neponset Valley): Will complete Sprouting Melodies training, deepening her expertise in infant and toddler music therapy to support developmental milestones from birth to age three.
Individual Areas of Growth
- Kimberly Chagnon (Speech Language Pathologist, Thom Westfield Infant Toddler Services): Will attend the STAR Institute’s course on Sensory Processing, Regulation, and Relationship, strengthening her ability to recognize and support children’s sensory needs to promote regulation and communication.
- Gabriela Gabor Kertznus (Social Worker, Thom Charles River): Will complete Full Spectrum Doula Training, expanding her capacity to support families through pregnancy, postpartum, and medical challenges using trauma-informed care methodologies.
Thom congratulates these exceptional employees. Their commitment to ongoing learning ensures the delivery of high-quality services and a more comprehensive support system for the children and families we serve.
