Joanne Donaruma Wade

Joanne Donaruma Wade has been a leader in the field of Human Services for over 35 years. She received a bachelor’s degree from Utica College in 1976, cum laude, and began her professional career at The Arc in 1977, recently retiring from The Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter. Ms. Wade leaves a legacy of innovative community based programs and services in Utica and the surrounding areas.

As Director of the Employment Service Division, Ms. Wade was instrumental in creating integrated employment opportunities and post secondary options for all individuals with disabilities, particularly young adults. Under her leadership, an innovative college program for individuals unable to participate in traditional college programs, known as CollegeWorks, was created. CollegeWorks allows all people the opportunity to have a college-level learning experience and an independent living experience. Ms. Wade has received numerous awards throughout her career for her contribution to the field of vocational rehabilitation, most recently, the 2014 New York State Council for Exceptional Children, Excellence in Leadership Award.

Ms. Wade also has a passion for fostering self esteem in young women. For many years, she has volunteered her own time and talents, working with the Good Old Summertime Festival Board of Directors and the Miss Greater Utica Pageant, to make a positive impact on teens.

Since her retirement, Ms. Wade remains committed to her community. She dedicated her time and talents to such organizations as the Kelberman Center, the Leatherstocking Ballet Board, the Heart Association’s Go Red For Women for 2015-16, the MVCC Foundation, the Charles Sitrin Health Center’s Foundation Board, Mohawk Valley Health Services, VNA Homecare, Utica Rotary and Upstate Cerebral Palsy

Ms. Wade is married to successful Utica businessman, John Wade, and resides in New Hartford. She has two children, Michael and Alexa, and her dedication to the youth of her community has given them a positive role model to look up to and to strive to be.