On Wednesday April 8, Senator Vanna Howard (D-Lowell) was recognized as a legislative champion by The Arc of Massachusetts for her advocacy on behalf of members of the Autism community.
The award was presented by The Arc of Massachusetts Autism Advocacy Day on Wednesday at the State House. More than 400 advocates, families, legislators, staff, and officials gathered at the Massachusetts State House for the 21st Annual Autism Advocacy Day. This year’s theme was “Safeguarding Our Future: Defending Critical Services for the Autism Community.”
Howard was introduced by constituents Lindsey Gresco and Maxwell Banfield.
“I am truly honored to receive this award,” Howard said. “There are so many deserving individuals who are on the frontlines doing the hard work including teachers, paraprofessionals, caregivers, and therapists. As a state senator, I will never stop advocating for the necessary funding to grow and support the many resources we have available here in the Commonwealth.”
Now in her first term as state senator, Howard previously served as state representative for the 17th Middlesex District from 2021 to 2026, putting the work of physically and intellectually disabled individuals at the forefront of her efforts.
In 2025, she was appointed as a member of the Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities by Speaker of the House Ronald Mariano. Howard was on hand as the commission hosted its latest Meeting the Moment: A Community Conversation and Resource Fair event at UMass Lowell on March 27.
“We are incredibly proud to honor Senator Vanna Howard for her steadfast dedication and impactful service during her tenure in the House of Representatives,” said Maura Sullivan, The Arc of Massachusetts CEO. “By weaving her lived experience as a parent and caregiver into the her policy work, she has served as a powerful voice for our community. We are thrilled to recognize her achievements as she carries this vital advocacy into her new chapter in the Senate.”
In addition to Howard, Senator Paul Feeney was also recognized as 2026 Legislator of the year. Jeremy Spittle, the legislative director for Senate Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues, also received The Arc’s first ever distinguished staff champion award.
The mission of The Arc of Massachusetts is to enhance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism and their families. For two decades, Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts (AFAM) has been a fierce public voice and a powerhouse of legislative change.
Established in 2004, AFAM has grown over the years and its membership has always included the leading autism advocacy or service organizations in Massachusetts. AFAM’s history has been inextricably linked with The Arc of Massachusetts, operating as its dedicated division to mobilize and advocate for individuals with autism, their families, and professionals who provide essential supports and services.
