21st Annual Autism Advocacy Day at the Massachusetts State House.

What started as a normal day quickly turned into a lesson in flexibility and grace when I realized I had left her noise-canceling headset at home. I hoped she might manage without it.

 

At the security checkpoint, Alexis, who doesn’t quite understand waiting in long lines, tried to move ahead. I redirected her, but when that didn’t work, we stepped aside to sit on a bench and regroup. Shortly after, a kind security officer came out and graciously escorted us inside. A small act of kindness that meant so much.

Once inside, the sounds of the rotunda, the echoes, the energy, became overwhelming. Alexis began to vocalize, drawn to the acoustics, and I felt that familiar sense of unease begin to creep in.

 

And then, right on time, Imene arrived. Truly heaven-sent.

She met Alexis with calm, patience, and genuine warmth. What unfolded was something beautiful. Alexis connected with her instantly, at one point even putting her feet up on her, a gesture she reserves for those she feels safe with. When Alexis later dropped to the ground, Imene didn’t hesitate, she got right down beside her and continued to engage her with compassion and ease.

 

If you ever want to understand the true character of a person, place them in a moment like this. Step back and observe.

Imene showed exactly who she is.

 

A leader who doesn’t just speak, but acts. Someone who leads with authenticity, compassion, and humility. Someone who will roll up her sleeves and meet people exactly where they are.

 

In her role as Executive Director of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities, she exemplifies what true leadership looks like.

We honor her, we appreciate her, and we are grateful for the work she continues to do.

 

Keep soaring, Imene.