Staff Profiles

CIP Berkshire Lee, Massachusetts

CIP Berkshire has an experienced, professional staff with strong educational backgrounds and solid experience working with young adults with Asperger’s, ADHD and other Learning Differences.

Get to Know The CIP Berkshire Team

Michael McManmon, Ed.D.

Founder

Michael McManmon, Ed.D. founded the College Internship Program (CIP) in 1984. He received a B.A. in English from Mt. St. Mary’s College in Maryland, a Masters in Counseling from Shippensburg University, a Masters in Human Development from the University of Kansas (through a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health), and a Doctorate in Special Education from the University of Nevada.

Dan McManmon, President

President

Dan McManmon grew up in western Massachusetts with four sisters, six foster brothers, and an adopted brother. Dan’s father, Michael McManmon, founded the College Internship Program (CIP) in 1984 and was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome in his late 50’s.

Michael Noel, M.Ed.

Director of Program Operations

Michael has earned a M.Ed. in Psycho-Educational Processes from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA where he was born and raised. When he’s not at one of our CIP centers, you can find him enjoying the beach, hiking, and maybe even going on an extreme adventure.

Sharona Sommer, C.P.C.

Director of Learning & Development

Sharona has worked in the field of Special Education for over 25 years supporting students and families in various positions throughout her career.

Mary Sokolowski, Ph.D.

National Enrollment Specialist

Before joining CIP in 2018, Mary worked for twenty years in the field of post-secondary education as an instructor and administrator. She served as adjunct faculty at several colleges and universities in the northeast.

Matthew Kosiorek, B.A.

Program Director

Matt Kosiorek brings over a decade of experience to the role of Interim Program Director at CIP Berkshire. Prior to joining the team at CIP Berkshire, Matt held several leadership positions within CIP’s National Office.

Christopher J. Hopkins, M.A.

Assistant Program Director

Chris served at six very different independent secondary schools for over 30 years before joining CIP. He began his career in education as an English teacher, dorm parent, and coach, and over time has held numerous senior administrative positions including Head of School.

Alex James, B.A.

Office Manager

Alex has worked in management and administration for the past decade, primarily in the performing arts industry. Alex earned her Bachelor's degree from Pace University.

Kate Daley

Life Skills Coach

Katie joined CIP in 2008. Her work has spanned multiple departments but she has found a home in the Life Skills department where she enjoys getting to know the many facets of the students she works with.

Leo Honbarger, B.A.

Life Skills Coach

Leo has worked in the field of autism since 2023 as a Life Skills Coach. They previously found success working as an award-winning writing tutor for undergraduate students with learning differences.

Amy Rando, M.S.W, L.C.S.W.

Clinician

Amy has worked in the field of Social Work since 2003. Most of that time was spent as a medical social worker.

Jay Lopez, M.F.A.

Life Skills Coordinator

Jay Lopez has worked in the field of autism for two years as the life skills coordinator. He previously found success working with young adults on the autism spectrum.

Dawn Smith-Korte, B.S.

Life Skills Coach

Dawn has worked at CIP for 9 years in many departments. She had worked in Social Thinking, Careers, Life Skills and has even been the van driver to BCC for a semester.

Judy Gerich, M.A.

Academic Coordinator

Judy Gerich has been the Academic Coordinator at CIP Berkshire since 2016. She began working for CIP in 2012, first as a Career Coordinator, and then as an Admissions Coordinator. She earned all of her degrees at the University of Buffalo (UB).

Sarah White, B.S.

Head Student Advisor

Sarah has worked in the field of autism for over five years as a Speech and Language Pathology Assistant. She previously found success working with students with Autism and learning differences.

Antonio Riello

Student Advisor

Tony has been working with teenagers and young adults since 2005. He has experience as a high school business teacher and in an alternative education classroom. Following his role as a teacher Tony transitioned into residential programming.

Lainey Jones, B.A.

Student Advisor

Lainey has worked in the field of Autism and Learning differences for the past 13 years. Prior to working at CIP, she was a teacher's assistant and residential counselor for children and adults with Autism and severe learning differences.

Lynn Racicot, BSW

Social Skills Coordinator

Lynn joins the CIP team as the Career Coordinator with over 35 years of experience, working with students and families.

Kara Demler, A.A.

Creative Arts Coordinator

Kara has worked in professional theater and music as a Stage Director, Teacher, Producer, Casting Assistant, and Performer for over 25 years.

Brenda Brown, M.S.W.

Clinician

Brenda has worked in the field of Social Work and Education supporting students on the Autism Spectrum and with Learning Differences for over 25 years.

Jeffrey Connor, B.A.

Academic Coach

Since graduating from Williams College (B.A. Mathematics, Class of 1990), Jeffrey has worked in the fields of Banking, Hospitality, and Education. He has worked at CIP for over 5 years, as a Tutor, an Academic Coach, and a Driver.

Learn More About CIP Staff

We understand the unique strengths and challenges that each student can possess. Learn more about our diverse and experienced staff across all CIP locations.

Spotlight on Success

Hear from CIP Berkshire students and families as they share their personal journeys – including finding CIP, and experiencing success.

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About CIP

We’ve been helping young adults on the autism spectrum and with learning differences find success in college, employment, and independent living since 1984.

Learn more about one of the world’s most comprehensive programs for young adults with learning differences

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