Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1010702
22 Hartford Business Journal • August 6, 2018 • www.HartfordBusiness.com N icole Feeney oversees the provision of technology to individuals with disabili- ties of all ages through The NEAT Center's innovative services. She leads a team of skilled profession- als conducting assessments and trainings across the continuum of assistive technology. Presenting at local and national conferences of- fers her the opportunity to promote community awareness and share unique and powerful benefits in us- ing technology to support education, employment, independent living and community needs. What's been the biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? I led a collaborative team through an assessment for a student tran- sitioning out of high school. This student has Cerebral Palsy, which impacts his mobility, physical abili- ties and communication. He is a bright and determined young man seeking independence at home and opportunities for employment. We determined several recommenda- tions in augmentative alternative communication, assistive technology and smart home solutions that can empower his independence and give peace of mind to his family. How are you involved in the community? I'm passionate about participating in events that bring awareness to services for individuals with disabilities and their families. I encourage my colleagues and my family to partake in events organized by the Miracle League of CT, Chapter 126 Sports & Fitness, Autism Speaks, Walk for MS, and Johnny's Jog. Give an example of a people-skills habit you adhere to in your work and daily life that you feel has helped you succeed. I truly believe that every person, no matter age, race or ability, can have a great impact in our community and world if their strengths, skills and unique qualities are what we focus on and treasure. I try my best to treat everyone I meet with this expectation. What do you hope Greater Hartford will be like in 10 years? As a Yard Goats fan, I am thrilled to attend baseball games in the city of Hartford. I would love to see the area around the stadium with unique storefronts and family restaurants that we can spend time in before and after the games. Four reasons why you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty: • Nurtures a team of professionals within disability services so they can empower people to meet their unique goals. • Recipient of the Family Champion Award. • Happiest when I can spread awareness about the potential impact that technology can have for people of all ages and abilities. • Strength in foreseeing new devel- opments in technology that can break barriers for individuals with disabilities and create innovative changes. Fun Fact I scored 1,000 points on my high school basketball team. S arah Gallardo has survived 10 years of domestic violence, has become a counselor and advo- cate and is an example of strength and hope to the community. Three years ago she founded Sarah Speaks Up to encourage, empower, strength- en and support victims and survivors of domestic violence. Gallardo and her board have created the Veterans For Victims Program and begun the Fresh Start Program. A year ago she published her first book, "Hiding In Plain Sight, A Glimpse Into The Real- ity of Domestic Violence." What's been the biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Publishing my first book was one of the most painfully gut wrenching, re- warding things I've ever done. Sharing more details of my story has helped so many people but it was extremely re- traumatizing for me to write. How are you involved in the community? I'm a speaker, activist and advocate. I work to raise awareness of domestic violence, link victims and families to resources and create a more educat- ed, supportive community. What do you like to do outside of work? I love spending time with my 11-year-old daughter, exploring and hiking in Vermont, cooking, writing, swimming, animals, meditation and environmental conservation efforts. Give an example of a people-skills habit you adhere to in your work and daily life that you feel has helped you succeed. I'm able to see the positive side of any challenge, even the hardest ones. I seek to find and express my truth so that others may benefit from my overcoming spirit. What must the Greater Hartford region do to attract more talented young professionals to the area? Continue supporting ourselves, and each other. Build a compassionate, cre- ative, exciting, safe place to grow and thrive. Love more. Reach out to those in need. See more than just yourself. Four reasons why you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty: • Founded a grassroots organiza- tion to increase awareness of domestic violence. • Received the 2015 Women of Inspi- ration Award from the CT Sun. • Created the Veterans For Victims Program, where a military Veteran is paired with a domestic violence victim/survivor to support them while testifying against their abuser in court. • Wrote and published 'Hiding In Plain Sight, A Glimpse Into The Reality of Domestic Violence.' Fun Fact My first true passion is singing. Nicole Feeney Age: 38 Company: The NEAT Center at Oak Hill Title: Director of AT Services No. of years with current company: 9 Town where I live: West Hartford Town where I work: Hartford College: Southern CT State University Highest degree: Master's degree in special education Sarah Gallardo Age: 37 Company: Sarah Speaks Up Title: Founder & Executive Director No. of years with current company: 3 Town where I live: Newington Town where I work: Newington College: Berklee College of Music, Central CT State University Highest degree: Not completed 40 UNDER FORTY 2018