Linda Donahue’s journey with NECC spans over three decades, during which she has become a cornerstone of the agency. With a calm demeanor, a friendly personality, and an unwavering commitment to the mission of NECC, Donahue has left an indelible mark on the countless students and fellow staff whose lives she has touched.
Donahue’s generosity is not just measured in the more than $15,000 she has donated through the staff giving program and various fundraising events over the past 20 years, but also in the time and energy she has tirelessly devoted to volunteering. Donahue started volunteering the moment she joined NECC as a college graduate in 1990, first as a volunteer for NECC’s A Night at the Boston Pops, progressing from there to annual golf tournaments and the NECC 5K Walk/Run for Autism.
“Now you can find me in a mascot uniform on occasion,” said Donahue, who’s donned a costume or two at Field Day events the last few years.
For Donahue, these events are opportunities for her to connect with the NECC community, reconnect with staff and student alumni, and witness firsthand the joy her efforts bring to students and their families. “I find joy in being in the midst of donors, fellow staff, our students, and their parents at these community-based events. It’s heartwarming and is always time well spent,” she shared, adding that dressing as a Field Day mascot has definitely been one of her favorite highlights. “Seeing the students’ smiles when interacting with me in costume is priceless.”
Donahue began her career at NECC as a teacher, but her natural affinity for human engagement led her to transition into various roles within the organization, eventually landing in the Human Resources Department, where she’s served as a college recruiter, senior specialist, director of recruiting, and now as an international support specialist.
For the past year, she has served as the international support specialist, a role she describes as both challenging and rewarding. “It was time for a fresh perspective and to take on new challenges,” she explained. “I’ve met some incredibly courageous individuals who have moved away from their family and comfort zone to join NECC. It’s inspiring to hear their backgrounds and what has brought them here.”
Donahue’s responsibilities in this role include greeting and transporting new international staff upon their arrival in the U.S., helping them settle into NECC housing, and assisting with essential logistics such as visiting the Social Security Administration office, setting up bank accounts, and navigating their new environment. For many, she is the first friendly face they see in a new country, and her support goes a long way in helping them feel welcome and part of the NECC community.
Throughout her 34-year tenure, Donahue has remained steadfast in her belief in NECC’s mission and is grateful for what her time here has given her in return. She said she’s always felt supported, has grown professionally and personally, has had the opportunity to be mentored and mentor others, and made some lasting friendships along the way.
“NECC is my community; it’s a big part of the fabric of my life,” she said. “The students I’ve worked with over the years have had a lasting impact on me. If I can make a difference in the students’ quality of life, my giving is all worth it.”
This article originally appeared in the Fall 2024 edition of Insight.