Kerry O’Connell-Vale, the Military Pathways program manager, brings more than
20 years of experience in education, coaching, customer service and program
management to the team. After earning her master’s degree at Wheelock College,
Kerry spent 10 years working as a school teacher at Hanscom Air Force Base, in
Lincoln, MA. She also has experience working in customer service, as well as a
corporate coach and trainer. It is through her work as a teacher at Hanscom
that Kerry gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of the challenges
facing military families. She says, “I have a tremendous respect for our
service members and their strength, dedication and courage.”
Joining Kerry are Liz Caniano and Alice (Al) Williams. Liz, the Military
Pathways program assistant, is a 2009 graduate of Smith College, earning her
bachelor’s in economics. Previously, she worked as a communications intern for
the International Food Policy Research Institute and then for the United States
Committee for the United Nations Development Program. The daughter of a retired
U.S. Army colonel, Liz grew up living on installations in Virginia, Rhode
Island, Washington, Kansas, Arizona and Germany.
Al Williams, the customer service representative, is a decorated veteran of the
U.S. Army, serving as a promotions sergeant and air craft refueler at the
National Training Center in Fort Irwin, CA. Al is the recipient of the National
Defense Medal for Meritorious Service earned during the 9/11 Threat Com Delta
for protecting a high target area. She brings more than 14 years of experience
in military affairs, education, coaching and counseling. Al received her master
of divinity from Harvard University in 2009 and her bachelor’s in religion from
Chapman University in 2008. This summer Al will be commissioned as a second
lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves.
Military Pathways is a comprehensive program dedicated to raising
awareness about mental health issues and providing free, anonymous screenings
for service members and their families. Kerry, Liz and Al look forward to
connecting with folks and hearing about events and gathering feedback. Each
welcomes the chance to discuss their plans with staff at military installations
worldwide as well as with anyone else interested in learning more about the
program. They can be reached at 781-239-0071 or at
[email protected].