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Aspire Staff

Thomas A. Sy

Executive Director

Contact Thomas - thomas.sy@aspirewny.org

"I was a parent of a child with a disability. I believe that the experience in advocating for her with individual providers and with the system as a whole prepared me for my role on a regular basis."

When did you begin working at Aspire?

2000

Summarize your primary responsibility in one to two sentences.
As the chief executive officer of Aspire, I ensure services are delivered in a quality and cost effective manner. I also see that our strategic initiatives are met and that our values-based culture is practiced by our great employees.

Summarize your most notable contributions throughout your employment at Aspire.
The development of a values-based culture, the expansion of our Southern Tier services (culminating in a headquarters facility) and representing Aspire in key collaborations and alliances.

How did your passion for helping people with disabilities come about?
My passion for working in the field of developmental disabilities stems from the privilege of having been the father of Heather, who had significant disabilities for over 12-1/2 years. The opportunity to watch her grow and develop, as well as work through significant struggles created in me a lifelong interest in ensuring that people with developmental disabilities are not only included in the community but also achieve their personal goals.

What is the most rewarding part of working at Aspire?
Having a personal knowledge of the individuals receiving services from Aspire.