(This is an ongoing series highlighting the many family members who work at Mary Cariola Center.)

Mackenzie and Connie

Meet Mackenzie Barrett and Connie Lee, a Mother/ Daughter duo!

Mackenzie has been a Teacher at Mary Cariola since 2012. She teaches at the East Henrietta campus working with students ages 13-15 years old. Mackenzie said, “I work at Mary Cariola Center because what we do here is truly unique and special. We are able to reach every type of learner, and our creativity and hard work to help every student grow and succeed is unmatched. I feel lucky to be a part of a student’s progress in their educational journey, and it keeps me coming back every year.”

Her Mom, Connie, is an RN and a School Nurse at Cariola. She started in April of 2021 and is now assigned to a classroom at the Elmwood campus. She works with students aged 9-18 with multiple, complex medical needs. Mackenzie had encouraged Connie to work at Cariola for years, and when Connie was ready for a career change, she took the leap! Connie loves working here because everyone at Cariola has one goal- to provide a positive environment for the students.

Colleen and Heather

Colleen Batzel and Heather DiNatale are Cariola through and through! These sisters have 37 combined years of agnecy experience!

Colleen started as a Teacher Aide and transitioned to our Community Services program. She started full time at the Bailey Road Residence as their Activities Coordinator. Now she works as the Assistant Waiver Manager and has been in this role for 3 years. Colleen works at Mary Cariola Center because she cares about the residents and students she works with and enjoys her co-workers. Colleen will have celebrate her 16th year anniversary with the Agency in March 2023.

Heather DiNatale works at the Elmwood Campus in the Finance Department as a Senior Payroll Specialist. Heather first started working at Cariola for the students and the school hours. She has gained extensive experience in Agency operations and has worked as a Teacher Aide, Purchasing Coordinator, Medicaid Support Specialist and Program Secretary. Now she loves to see how the staff help the students and residents accomplish their goals. Also, Heather says, “what better way to ensure they (Cariola staff) feel appreciated than to provide them with a paycheck each week!” Heather has been with Cariola for 21 years.