Our Leadership Team
Spectrum360 leaders and board of trustees share a desire to enrich lives and to foster an organization that helps students and adults build the skills they need today and for tomorrow.

Ken Berger, MBA, MA
Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director
Ken Berger, MBA, MA
Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director

As Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director, Ken manages the day-to-day operations of Spectrum360, and advocates for public funding and legislation to support individuals with special needs. With decades of nonprofit leadership and direct service experience, Ken has focused on efforts to transform the entire social sector (philanthropy, nonprofits and for profit social enterprises).
Ken serves on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Private Special Education Centers, ASAH (a statewide association of NJ private special education schools), the Alliance of Special Education Schools of Northern NJ, Grafton Integrated Health Network
(a Virginia-based nonprofit serving children and adults with behavioral health challenges) and Able Angel (a nonprofit focused on driving more money to Able accounts which are tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities and their families). In addition, he continues in efforts to improve the social sector as a whole by co-hosting a podcast that launched over the summer of 2023 called “The Nonprofit Fix” that helps nonprofits of all kinds to improve their performance.

Danielle Taylor, Psy.D.
Chief Operating Officer
Danielle Taylor, Psy.D.
Chief Operating Officer

Since 2018, Danielle has been assisting our Executive Director helping make sure operations and new initiatives run effectively and efficiently.
Prior to joining Spectrum360, Danielle was the Director of Clinical Services for Y.A.L.E. Schools, the Director of Clinical Services & Intake at Pineland Learning Center and the Clinical Director of the Chesapeake Bay Academy. She also was an Adjunct Professor at Rowan University.
Danielle is a member of the New Jersey Association of School Psychologists, National Association of School Psychologists, and ASAH. She’s most proud of running the PLC chapters of Achilles Kids International and Animal Assisted Therapy.
She earned her BA in Psychology from Hartwick College and her MS in Educational Psychology & Statistics as well as her doctorate in School Psychology from the University at Albany. Danielle also received her NJDOE Supervisor Credential from Montclair State University. When she’s not helping fulfill our mission, Danielle loves to run and hike.
Academy360 Lower School
Preschool, Elementary, Middle School & 9th Grade Program

Tara Ann Hayek, MA, M.Ed.
Principal
Tara Ann Hayek, MA, M.Ed.
Principal

Tara has been a part of the Spectrum360/Academy360 community for 31 years. She began her time as an Aide and has risen through the organization as Teacher Assistant, Classroom Teacher, Behaviorist, and Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction, Assistant Principal and more recently Principal.
Tara is an active member of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development and Association for Behavior Analysis International. She’s passionate about working with students with special needs. Tara loves making connections with the students, staff and families. She’s most proud of being nominated as an ASAH Educator of the year, presenting at various conferences and events including AUTISM New Jersey and assisting with accreditation of Special Education Services.
Tara earned her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and Master in Administration and Supervision from Montclair State University. She completed her Master of Education from William Paterson University. In her free time, Tara loves cooking, exploring new restaurants, hiking, or practicing yoga.

Michlyn Petrosini, M.ED., MA, BCBA
Assistant Principal
Michlyn Petrosini, M.ED., MA, BCBA
Assistant Principal

Michlyn is the Assistant Principal at Spectrum360’s Lower School. She has been with the organization since 2010 and has held a variety of roles, including paraprofessional, classroom teacher, classroom behaviorist, remedial reading teacher, and supervisor of curriculum and instruction.
Michlyn is passionate about autism awareness and acceptance, and she believes that all students can thrive in an educational environment that is supportive and inclusive. She is also committed to making connections with families and building relationships with students. Michlyn’s most proud of helping to implement new reading and language arts curriculum in the classroom setting to meet the needs of a variety of learners and leading professional development workshops for staff around autism awareness, behavior management and differentiated instruction.
Michlyn earned her BA in psychology at Marist College and her MA in Education from University of St. Joseph. She also has a BCBA certification from University of North Texas and Supervisor certification from Seton Hall University. In her free time, Michlyn enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her two daughters.
Academy360 Upper School
High School & Young Adult Program

Kelly Cue, MA, M.Ed.
Principal
Kelly Cue, MA, M.Ed.
Principal

For 30 years, Kelly Cue has dedicated her career to Spectrum360. Starting as a Supervisor of Curriculum, Kelly now holds the title of Principal. maintains site operations which includes but not limited to: carrying out school, district and state policies, maintaining safety of school, coordinating school activities, and advocating for the students.
Kelly is an active member of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development as well as the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association. In addition to the passion she has for advocating for people with special needs, she dedicates her time to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease awareness . She is most proud of having dedicated 30 years to an organization.
Kelly earned a bachelor’s degree from Seton Hall University with master’s degree from University of Phoenix. When she is not working, you can find Kelly singing, dancing or reading.

Noelle DiGiacomo
Assistant Principal
Noelle DiGiacomo
Assistant Principal

Noelle is the Assistant Principal at Academy360 Upper School. Throughout her tenure, she has taken on various roles, starting as a paraprofessional and then transitioning to positions such as ESY classroom Teacher and Reading Specialist. Her passion for education and her commitment to helping students reach their highest potential have been evident throughout her career.
As the Assistant Principal at Academy360 Upper School, Noelle shoulders a diverse range of responsibilities, including overseeing the school’s curriculum and instruction, managing student behavior, and advocating for students while fostering a collaborative environment among staff.
Noelle’s educational journey includes her graduation from Felician University, where she earned a BA in Elementary Education and Psychology, a testament to her dedication to understanding the complexities of learning and human behavior. Additionally, she holds a Master’s in Reading from Montclair State University, which further bolsters her expertise in helping students develop essential literacy skills. To complement her academic qualifications, Noelle also possesses a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the same institution, showcasing her aptitude for guiding and inspiring others.
Her certifications in elementary education, reading, and special education reflect Noelle’s commitment to addressing the diverse needs of students, particularly those with autism. As a co-chair and active member of the school’s Autism Awareness/Acceptance committee, she actively advocates for creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Noelle enjoys reading and baking, as well as cherishing quality time with her family and friends.

Megan Maguire, M.Ed., MA, BCBA
Assistant Principal
Megan Maguire, M.Ed., MA, BCBA
Assistant Principal

Megan Maguire is the Assistant Principal at Academy360. Her tenure at the school dates back to 2007, during which she has held various roles, including Behaviorist/Counselor, Behavior Analyst, and Supervisor of the Behavior Intervention and Clinical Department. As the Assistant Principal at Academy360 Upper School, Megan handles a diverse range of responsibilities, including overseeing the school’s curriculum and instruction, supervising the clinical and BID Department, managing student behavior, and advocating for students while fostering a collaborative environment among staff,
Megan’s dedication to empowering students with autism to achieve their full potential is evident in her extensive qualifications and experience. Holding certifications as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and School Counselor, she possesses a deep understanding of behavioral challenges faced by students.
Throughout her 16-year tenure, Megan has been instrumental in positively impacting students and their families. Her notable achievements include providing one-on-one support to students on her caseload, as well as offering BCBA supervision to aspiring candidates seeking certification. She has successfully overseen the Behavior Intervention Department and the school counselors, fostering a conducive learning environment for students with autism spectrum disorder. Megan’s significant contributions also extend to providing training and oversight to the entire LIFE program, further enhancing the school’s educational offerings.
Megan’s dedication, coupled with her passions for autism, animals, and running, exemplify her as a well-rounded and compassionate educator.
Independence360
Adult Program

Kimberley Mitchell-Rushmore, MSW, LCSW,
Program Director
Kimberley Mitchell-Rushmore, MSW, LCSW,
Program Director

Since 1999, Kim has been supporting our adults at Spectrum360 beginning as a Clinician, Coordinator of Adult Education, Respite Coordinator, and eventually Director of Adult Program. She has been running our Adult Program for the past 10 years and is responsible for overseeing, coordinating, developing and managing the adult program. She handles the parent support groups and training, fundraising, advocacy efforts and policy change.
Prior to joining Spectrum360, Kim worked as Carrier Clinic, Hunterdon Medical Center, Morristown Memorial Hospital/Program Supervisor and a Clinician. She is passionate about ID/DD awareness, civil rights, and mental health. She is most proud of earning her LCSW, creating the I360 program, and more recently earning Congressional Hero Recognition by Congresswoman Mikie Sherril.
Kim earned her Bachelor of Arts at University of Hartford and Master in Social Work at the University of Connecticut. When she is not at the program, you can find Kim spending time with family and friends.

Jason Wetzel
Assistant Program Director
Jason Wetzel
Assistant Program Director

Jason began his career at Independence360 in 2013. Starting as an Activities Coordinator, Jason pursued additional positions such as Night Program Coordinator and Safety Care Specialist. Now as Assistant Director, Jason manages the day-to- day programming needs, medicaid billing, hiring, on-boarding and development of staff, client enrollment, behavior intervention and support.
Jason is passionate about autism awareness, Habitat for Humanity and St.Peter’s Children Hospital. He’s most proud of the Independence360 adults’ growth and their development of new friendships, skills and hobbies.
Jason earned his bachelor’s degree in Physical Education at West Chester University. When he’s not working, you can find Jason on the golf course.

Matthew Clark
Livingston Supervisor
Matthew Clark
Livingston Supervisor

For the last 8 years, Matthew has been a dedicated employee of Independence360 starting as an Activities Coordinator and now managing the day-to-day operations as a Site Supervisor at the Livingston location.
Matt is very passionate about advocating for hiring people with disabilities in the workplace. He’s most proud of earning his promotion to Site Supervisor here at Independence360.
Matt earned his bachelor’s degree at Marywood University and when he’s not in Livingston, you can probably find Matt at a theater – directing, acting, writing or handling the lighting.

Lumane Metullus
Whippany Supervisor
Lumane Metullus
Whippany Supervisor

Since 2018, Lumane has been a dedicated employee of Independence360. Lumane has held several roles including Activities Coordinator, Lead Activities Coordinator and Respite staff. More recently she became the Site Supervisor & Curriculum Coordinator where she oversees staff and clients, managing the day-to-day operation of the center. She is also responsible for organizing, implementing and supervising curricula.
Prior to Spectrum360, Lumane was a Teacher’s Assistant and a Sales Associate. She is very passionate about helping others in any way she can. Her proudest moment was starting a partnership between Kean University & I360 which allowed our adults to engage in classes with the graduate students.
Lumane earned her bachelor’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and master’s degrees at Kean University. When she is not working you can find Lumane enjoying photography and videography.

Megan Luis
Manager of Career Development
Megan Luis
Manager of Career Development

For 3 years, Meg has been a dedicated employee of Independence360 starting as an Employment Specialist and now helping our adults gain valuable skills to enter the workforce. Prior to joining Spectrum360, Meg worked at DCPP Paterson (Part B/Adoption Writer) and as a
NJWINS Work Incentives Counselor.
Meg is passionate about all of our adults and providing them with skills they need. Her proudest moments are when she sees a previous client utilizing the skills she has taught them.
Meg earned her bachelors and master’s degrees at Montclair State University with a focus on Child Advocacy and Policy. When she is not working you can find Meg crafting, crocheting or spending time with her kitty cat Crystal.

Michael Soohoo
Behavior Specialist
Michael Soohoo
Behavior Specialist

Since 2019, Michael has worked with Independence360. He began his career as a Lead Activities Coordinator and now is one of the lead Behavior Specialists. He provides positive supports and encourages the emotional and physical safety for all of the clients. He holds individual sessions to discuss and develop appropriate and positive coping strategies.
In addition to his role at Independence360, Michael also works as a paraprofessional at Celebrate the Children School. He is passionate about autism and mental health. His proudest moments were graduating college and helping Independence360 adults succeed in the community.
Michael earned his bachelor’s degree from Rowan University. When he is not working Michael is traveling and exploring the world.

David Diianni
Program Director
David Diianni
Program Director

Since 2008, David has been handling dual roles at Spectrum360, teaching TV Broadcasting and as the Program Director of FilmAcademy360.
Prior to joining us, David traveled the world as a TV producer/director interviewing sports figures, politicians, authors and actors. David held various roles at Rizzoli New Media, Sky Italia and RAI, the Italian national broadcaster.
David is an active member of The Student Television Network, New Jersey Educational Computing Cooperative (NJECC) and presenter at the Producers Guild of America. He’s most proud of founding a program that has impacted the lives of many students.
David earned his Bachelor of Arts in Economics at Rutgers University and Master in Education from Wilkes University. When he’s not behind the camera or directing his students, you can find David hiking or traveling frequently to Italy where his bi-national and multilingual kids are currently in school.

Alyssa Currey
Producer & Assistant Instructor
Alyssa Currey
Producer & Assistant Instructor

Alyssa Currey is an Academy360 Instructor and Producer for the FilmAcademy360 program, supervising student film production, supporting technical learning in digital media, and fostering creativity in both classroom and after-school settings. Her journey began in 2019 as an Instructional Aid at Academy360, later becoming a Teacher Assistant, and she also made a significant impact as a Producer at FilmAcademy360.
Prior to Spectrum360, Alyssa worked in NBC’s Creative Services Department, and she also contributes her expertise to the Student Television Network and Jersey Access Group of Local Broadcasters, where she supports students in gaining technical proficiency in digital media.
Alyssa earned her Bachelor’s degree in Animation with a minor in Creative Writing from the University of the Arts. Besides her professional interests, Alyssa is a passionate advocate for Autism and Women’s Rights/Health. In her free time, she enjoys drawing and has a deep interest in astrology.

Janine McCaffrey
Producer & Assistant Instructor
Janine McCaffrey
Producer & Assistant Instructor

Janine McCaffrey is a Producer and Assistant for the FilmAcademy360 program, where she assists students in pre-production, production, and post-production. She also produces client projects for the studio, including projects for Veritext, the Guggenheim Museum, and The Children’s Specialized Hospital.
Prior to joining Spectrum360, Janine worked at Stonestreet Studios and Woodmont Day Camp And Kress Productions in various roles, including Editor, Script Supervisor, Videographer, Graphic Designer, and Production Assistant.
Janine earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts with a concentration in Digital Filmmaking from Ramapo College, graduating at the top of her class. She was also invited to work on set for a movie starring Christopher Lloyd. In her free time, Janine likes to read and attend comic conventions.
Development & Operations

Stacy Sarra CPA, PSA
Chief Financial Officer
Stacy Sarra CPA, PSA
Chief Financial Officer

In the last 7 years, Stacy has been running and supervising the staff and day-to-day activities of the Business Office for Spectrum360.
Prior to joining Spectrum360, Stacy was a Certified Public Accountant at several different firms in New Jersey. Her last position was Manager at Smolin, Lupin & Co., P.A.
Stacy is an active member of New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA), Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA) and Region Business Managers Co-Chair at ASAH. With a son on the spectrum, Stacy is very passionate about autism awareness and the work Spectrum360 does. She’s most proud of building and maintaining a dedicated team of talented and caring staff and professionals in the Business Office.
Stacy earned her bachelor’s degree at Fairleigh Dickinson University. When she’s not managing budgets, you can probably find Stacy visiting one of the many lighthouses across the United States.

Kerry Guzman
Director of Development
Kerry Guzman
Director of Development

In the last 5 years, Kerry has handled fundraising for Spectrum360 through donor outreach, special events, grant writing, major gifts and more. Prior to joining Spectrum360, Kerry was the Division Director for American Cancer Society. She also handled marketing for the Union Center National Bank.
Kerry is an active member of the Center for NonProfits and the North Essex Chamber of Commerce. Passionate about children’s health and well-being, Kerry has received many accolades in her career but is most proud of reaching her fundraising goals during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kerry earned her bachelor’s degree at West Virginia University. When she’s not hosting a fundraising event or sharing Spectrum360’s mission, you can find Kerry running around raising three young boys.

Randall Palmer
IT Coordinator
Randall Palmer
IT Coordinator

For 16 years, Randall has been part of the Spectrum360 family. Beginning as a Computer Specialist and the Teacher of Internet and Online Learning, he now manages the IT team supporting the educational technology infrastructure for the organization. Before Spectrum360, Randall has supported organizations such as Rutgers University and Mountainside Board of Education, and was an employee of the Pine Bush Bible Camp.
Randall is a member of New Jersey Educational Computing Cooperative, Civil Air Patrol, International Society for Technology in Education, Consortium for School Networking, and Discovery Educator Network . He’s most proud of the awards during his tenure at Spectrum360: NJAET Technologist of the Year (2001), ASAH Educator of the Year (2008), and NJECC/ISTE Making IT Happen Award (2015).
Randall earned his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University and his master’s from Nova Southeastern University. When he’s not handling IT issues, you can find him practicing archery or managing the Pine Bush Bible Camp.

Rahiem Dawsey, CEFM
Director of Facilities
Rahiem Dawsey, CEFM
Director of Facilities

For more than 20 years, Rahiem has been a part of the Spectrum360 family. Beginning his career as the Head of Maintenance, he now works closely with the Executive Director to manage all school construction, engineering, architecture, maintenance operations, school safety and security.
Rahiem worked as a carpenter for Essex Country Carpenters Local 1342 and was a Construction Foreman for the Newark Housing Authority. He’s a member of the New Jersey School Building & Grounds Association and is most proud of his role in the construction of Academy360 Upper School and the I360 Whippany location.
Rahiem went to both the New Jersey Carpenters Apprentice Training School and The Training Center Inc./NJ Boiler Training Experts. He’s a Certified Educational Facilities Manager, State Certified Armed Security Officer and has his Black Seal Boiler License.
When he’s not on one of our campuses, Rahiem loves helping others and he’s an avid sports memorabilia collector.

Melissa Kuper
Head of Communications & Community Relations
Melissa Kuper
Head of Communications & Community Relations

Since 2019, Melissa has managed Spectrum360 communications and community relations. She focuses on communications, marketing, family/caregiver relations, media, volunteer operations and advocacy efforts.
Melissa worked as the VP, Integrated Marketing for Accuweather and held similar roles at companies like Yahoo! and Microstrategy. She prides herself on her ability to hire quality talent, building teams and being resourceful.
Melissa serves on the National Association of Private Special Education Centers Adult Service Public Policy Sub-committee and is a member of the Public Relations Society of America, National School Public Relations Association and NJ School Public Relations Association. Melissa is passionate about children and finding cures for diseases like Alzheimers and cancer that impact so many lives.
Melissa earned her bachelor’s degree in Marketing from James Madison University. When she’s not supporting Spectrum360, you can find Melissa on various adventures with her two young children.

Lynn Muir
Head of Strategic Alignment & Quality Assurance

Join Our Team
At Spectrum360 we work every day to better the lives of individuals with autism and related disabilities. We are looking for new team members who are reliable, energetic and adaptable with an understanding and accepting of differences.
Explore CareersBoard of Trustees
Adam Lipkin
President & Independence360 Board of Trustees
Kristen Olson
Vice President, Spectrum360 & Independence360 Board of Trustees
Jonah Zimiles, Esq., MBA
Vice President, Spectrum360 & Independence360 Board of Trustees
Cochleen Sands
Secretary, Spectrum360 & Independence360 Board of Trustees
Joseph Baker
Treasurer, Spectrum360 & Independence360 Board of Trustees
Kenneth M. Blumberg, DDS
Board Member, Spectrum360 Board
Gregg Cuvin
Board Member, Spectrum360 Board
Jyothish Daniel
Board Member, Spectrum360 Board
Lynda Sun Lee
Board Member, Spectrum360 Board
Tim O'Brien
Board Member, Spectrum360 Board
Marc Reimer
Board Member, Spectrum360 Board
Michael J. Reimer
Board Member, Spectrum360 Board
Marla Weetall
Board Member, Spectrum360 Board