STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Eden II Programs has named Dr. Eileen Hopkins as its next chief executive officer, tapping a longtime leader within the organization to guide the Staten Island-based nonprofit as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Hopkins, who has spent more than 30 years with Eden II, will assume the role next month, succeeding Dr. Joanne Gerenser, who is stepping down after 33 years as CEO and 44 years of service to the organization.
The appointment follows an extensive international search, according to Eden II, which provides educational, residential and support services for people with autism and their families.
Founded in 1976 with six students and one teacher, Eden II now serves more than 700 participants through programs spanning their lifespan.
Its services include a nursery school, school program, adult services, 10 residences and family support.
The organization also serves Long Island through its Genesis program.
Michelle Carr, chair of the Eden II board of directors, said Hopkins was selected for her decades of experience with the organization, her understanding of participants and families, and her work as a researcher, lecturer, professor and leader in autism services.
Gerenser leaves behind a decades-long legacy at Eden II and in the broader field of autism services. A teacher and speech pathologist by training, she became a pioneer in Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA, training and played a significant role in the organization’s growth.
“Eden II has been my life’s work,” Gerenser said, adding that she was proud of the generations of participants and families the organization has served and confident in Hopkins’ ability to lead it forward.
Hopkins’ career at Eden II has combined direct service, research, teaching and leadership. She is also a professor at the City University of New York and has worked in the autism services field at the state, national and international levels.
Hopkins emphasized Eden II’s founding belief that people with autism deserve opportunities to learn, grow, participate in their communities and reach their full potential.
“I am deeply honored to lead an organization that has been such an important part of my life,“ said Hopkins.