VFES Announces New Executive Director

The Board of Trustees of Valley Forge Educational Services (VFES), a nonprofit providing educational, employment and related clinical services to children and adults with disabilities, is pleased to announce that Thomas (Tom) Quinn, M.Ed, M.EA has joined VFES as its new Executive Director, effective Monday, June 24.

Quinn succeeds Grace Fornicola, PhD., who has served as VFES’ Executive Director since July 2012. Dr. Fornicola is retiring after 12 years with VFES and 40 years overall in the fields of Education and Human Services. She will remain with VFES through a transitional period until her retirement on July 3.

Quinn brings over 27 years of experience at education and non-profit organizations, with 15 of those years serving students with disabilities. He is poised to lead VFES into a new era of growth and impact, overseeing the strategic implementation of VFES’ programs, including The Vanguard School and Adult and Recreation Services. His extensive experience as an educator, administrator and advocate for people with disabilities makes him a capable leader for the VFES community.

Prior to joining VFES, Quinn was President of HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy in Philadelphia. Since 2019, Tom led HMS’ day and residential programs, serving students from 27 school districts and four different states. His staff included over 130 professionals, including teachers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists and 24-hour nursing that support the residence and the school.

“I am truly honored to join Valley Forge Educational Services as its new Executive Director,” said Quinn. “I am deeply aligned with the mission of VFES and excited to join such an amazing team of professionals who are dedicated to transforming the lives of children and adults with disabilities. I’m very much looking forward to seeing all we can accomplish together!”

Prior to HMS, Quinn held a 10-year tenure as the Director of Education for Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia. He also worked at the middle school, high school and collegiate level as a teacher of American History.

“Tom has already begun to meet with staff across all departments and will be very involved in our summer programs beginning next month,” said Dr. Fornicola. “I am confident that he will bring a fresh vision and leadership style that will continue to increase the sustainability and growth of VFES and its programs.”

Quinn is a graduate of Bucknell University. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Education from West Chester University and a Master’s in Educational Administration from Gwynedd Mercy University. Quinn resides in Rose Valley, PA with his wife, Susan, and their two children, Nathaniel and Samantha.

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About Valley Forge Educational Services

Valley Forge Educational Services (VFES) offers a continuum of educational, recreational and employment-related services for children and adults who require a high degree of individualized attention, clinical supports and intervention, including those with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, speech-language deficits and students who experience social-emotional, executive functioning and behavioral difficulties. VFES is committed to helping students and participants develop a strong sense of self-worth to realize their value as contributing members of the community through its two signature programs: The Vanguard School and Adult and Recreation Services (ARS). Learn more at vfes.net.