Leadership Changes at The Boggs Center

Monday, October 7, 2024

Photos of Colleen McLaughlin and Carrie Coffield. Text reads “Join us in congratulating new Leadership at The Boggs Center.”

The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development, New Jersey’s federally designated University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD) and home to New Jersey’s Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (NJLEND) program, has reorganized our leadership structure to ensure continued growth and success following the retirement of founding Executive Director Deborah M. Spitalnik, PhD. Dr. Spitalnik’s unwavering commitment to advancing policy and practice, her steadfast leadership, and dedication to love and listening will serve as a legacy for all of us at the Center to uphold in our continued work.

We are pleased to announce that Colleen McLaughlin, MEd, has been designated UCEDD Director and Deputy Director of The Boggs Center. Previously Associate Director, Colleen has over two decades of experience in the field, focused on disability policy; inclusive, person-centered community supports; self-determination; direct support workforce development; service coordination; and quality improvement. During her time at The Boggs Center, Colleen has led our disability policy, community training, and technical assistance initiatives; coordinated UCEDD-related functions and strategic planning; and represented the Center on numerous boards and committees both within and beyond New Jersey.

In addition, Carrie Coffield, PhD, has become Director of NJLEND, The Boggs Center’s Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities program. Carrie has served as Training Director of NJLEND since its inception in 2016. She is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and also serves as Director of Preservice Training at The Boggs Center. Her areas of expertise include health disparities in diagnosis and access to care for children with autism and their families, transition to adult healthcare, and educating healthcare providers about developmental disabilities.

We are confident that these changes will strengthen The Boggs Center's ability to serve people with disabilities, their families, and our community partners. Colleen and Carrie bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their new roles, and we are excited to see their leadership in action.