About us
Who We Work With
VSA arts of Massachusetts reaches close to 50,000 people annually through groundbreaking and effective statewide programs in the two broad areas of education and cultural inclusion. We work with teachers and students, parents and school administrators. We also work with artists, cultural organizations and people advocating for the rights of people with disabilities.
History
VSA arts of Massachusetts is part of an international network of VSA arts organizations serving all 50 states and over 60 other nations. VSA arts was founded at the time that the national center for the performing arts was dedicated to President John F. Kennedy and remains affiliated with The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. Originally known as the National Committee Arts for the Handicapped and formerly named Very Special Arts, VSA arts changed its name in 1999, eliminating the use of the word "special" to honor the progress made by members of the disability community since the organization's inception. The letters VSA now reflect the Vision of an inclusive community, Strength in shared resources and Artistic expression that unite us all. Click here for a tribute to founder Maida Abrams.
The Arts in the Lives of People with Disabilities
Through the arts, we are breaking new ground. For people with disabilities, the arts represent a world of resources and opportunities. Artistic expression provides an outlet for creative voice and unlimited possibilities for personal, academic, and professional success. By engaging in the arts, people with disabilities are able to contribute to our workplaces and communities, help extinguish old stereotypes regarding disabilities, and create a global culture truly representative of all people.
The arts are a valuable impetus for healthy living. They provide education, enjoyment, sensory stimulation and a place to come together as part of mainstream society."
- Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith, VSA arts founder
VSAM Board Members
- Mark Thomas, Board Chair, Development Committee Chair
- Robert Guillemin, Clerk, Opportunities Committee Chair
Artstreet, Director & Artist (aka Sidewalk Sam) - Jeremy Alliger, Treasurer, Artistic Director, Alliger Arts
- Robin Foley, Education Committee Chair
Federation for Children with Special Needs, Director of Special Education - Martha McKenna, Education Committee, Program Evaluation
Lesley University, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs - Brian Miner, Opportunities Committee
- Carol L. Colbeck, Education Committee
Professor and Dean
Graduate College of Education, UMass Boston - Thomas Keane, Chairperson/Inclusion
Director Special Education, Concord-Carlisle High School
