The Charles River Center Announces New President, Anne-Marie Bajwa

Philip V. Robey, Chairman of the Board at the Charles River Center, has announced that Anne-Marie Bajwa has been selected as the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer. Bajwa, who has served as the agency’s Chief Operating Officer since 2008, will assume her role effective October 1, 2016. Bajwa succeeds John Grugan, who is retiring from the Charles River Center after 35 years, the past 16 as President.

“Anne-Marie’s experience with the Charles River Center will allow her to move forward quickly, and her deep knowledge of the strengths and needs of the organization will be key as the developmental disability field prepares to make significant changes over the next several years,

said Robey. “Retiring President John Grugan had a major impact on the growth of the agency and the presence of the Charles River Center in the community, and we are confident that Anne-Marie will carry on the legacy of compassion, commitment, leadership and innovation.”

“At the Charles River Center, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their skills and talents so they may become integral to their communities to the greatest extent possible. I’m honored to hold the position of President, and look forward to working with the dedicated staff and Board of Directors as we continue to provide quality programs and services while remaining true to this mission,” said Bajwa.

Bajwa has worked in the non-profit sector for over 35 years, developing and implementing programs and services for adults with developmental disabilities, autism and physical challenges. She has played a pivotal role in the growth of the Charles River Center, as she oversaw the Day Habilitation, Residential, Family Support, and Employment divisions.

Bajwa holds a bachelor’s degree in special education from Boston College and a master’s degree in public administration from Bridgewater State University. For seven years, she served as Chairperson of the Massachusetts Day Habilitation Coalition. She has been an active member of the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers for a decade, working on the Autism Blueprint and Employment First committees. Bajwa has three grown children and resides in Bridgewater with her husband.

The Charles River Center is a nonprofit human services agency with offices in Needham and Natick, Massachusetts. It provides employment and job training, housing, day habilitation programs, and recreational programs for over 950 children and adults with developmental disabilities such as autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other conditions.