New England

Christine Telford is a dedicated professional with over 15 years of experience in vocational rehabilitation, specializing in services for individuals who are DeafBlind. Currently serving as the Regional Service Coordinator at the Helen Keller National Center in Boston, Christine supervises a team of DeafBlind Specialists and Rehabilitation professionals. She effectively manages regional budgets and collaborates with various stakeholders to enhance the inclusion of DeafBlind youth and adults in the HKNC National Registry.

Previously, Christine was a DeafBlind Specialist at HKNC, where she focused on providing one-on-one vocational rehabilitation services to help consumers achieve their employment goals. Her earlier role as an Orientation & Mobility Instructor at the Lighthouse for the Blind and Low Vision honed her skills in teaching clients to navigate their environments independently.

Christine has also made significant contributions at the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services, where she led the planning and implementation of programs for DeafBlind individuals, managed support service provider programs, and provided extensive training to staff and community partners. Known for her problem-solving abilities, Christine excels in identifying and leveraging community resources to resolve complex issues.

Christine holds a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation of the Blind from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and is a Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist. She has also completed a Bachelor of Science in Deaf Studies from Towson University and holds certifications in sign language interpreting.

In her free time, Christine enjoys connecting with others in the DeafBlind community and finding new ways to raise awareness about the unique challenges they face. She believes that everyone deserves the chance to reach their full potential, and she’s committed to making that a reality.

Megan Socha successfully completed her undergraduate studies at Fitchburg State University in Massachusetts, earning a double major in Psychology and Sociology, complemented by a minor in Deaf Studies. Continuing her academic journey, she pursued and achieved a master’s degree in social work at Salem State University, also located in Massachusetts.

During a year-long internship as a Case Manager for the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Megan honed her skills and gained valuable experience. Since 2021, she has been a dedicated staff member of the New England Homes for the Deaf, contributing to the activities department. Additionally, Megan volunteers her time with the DeafBlind Contact Center and actively participates in her local DeafBlind social group.

Megan’s diverse employment history and educational background have equipped her with a broad range of skills, including expertise in tactile sign language, non-contracted braille comprehension, SSP (Support Service Provider) roles, haptics/pro-tactile experiences, communication facilitation, intake/assessment procedures, treatment/goal planning, and expertise in accessibility/accommodations. She has also fostered professional connections with multiple agencies across the state, demonstrating her commitment to the Deaf Blind community and her ongoing dedication to its advancement.