Stacy Seward, Executive Director of The Dream Network
“For nearly a decade, our organization has worked with both Kassie Infante and Dr. Marienela Rivera as partners working toward social, educational, and economic justice in the community. Fierce educators, both women have exhibited leadership and developed educational frameworks for engaging individuals, families, groups, and institutions that have been historically marginalized. Additionally, both bring academic and lived experience to the table having an organic and symbiotic relationship with teaching and learning. The Dream Network is appreciative of the role HomePlace has played in shifting the landscape and strategies that lead to increased civic engagement and recommends HomePlace, without reservation, as a professional development providers.”
Paula Gomez Stordy, M.Ed., Adjunct Professor
“As an adjunct professor at Merrimack College, I taught Social Justice: Theory and Practice to students ranging from freshmen to seniors. Students explored concepts of equity, inclusion, and social justice in the classroom and served at local agencies to learn how nonprofits address social issues and serve the community. I invited Dr. Rivera as a guest speaker to share with students about her work engaging and supporting students in advocating for their rights through the school committee. Students enjoyed Dr. Rivera’s presentation, and many mentioned her specifically when writing what they enjoyed about the semester in their course evaluations. I highly recommend Dr. Rivera as educators and their students will benefit from her expertise, experience, and commitment to advancing the well-being and social justice of all individuals.”
Lou Bernieri, Executive Director of Andover Bread Loaf