Human services visionary Thomas W. McNelis, to retire after 48 years of service. Hands baton to successor after leveling playing field for employing people with disabilities.
Threshold Rehabilitation Services, Inc (TRS), a leading human services agency for Berks County, announces the retirement of President/CEO Thomas W. McNelis, effective December 31, 2022. The TRS Board of Directors will hold a reception on December 7 to honor 48 years of service and contributions to human services by McNelis. One of them was helping to choose a successor, long-time colleague and recently-hired COO Dr. Edward B. Michalik, Jr., as the new President/CEO, effective January 1, 2023.
McNelis and Michalik shared a 30-year history of collaboration in the human services and counseling fields. President McNelis, affectionally known by friends and colleagues as “Mac,” was instrumental in helping the board identify Michalik as a successor who would promote the mission and values of TRS. Michalik was hired last year and invited to contribute to TRS’s New Strategic Plan.
“The Strategic Plan is my road map for years to come,” says Michalik, who commented on Threshold’s team environment. “We are all for one and one for all.”
Michalik’s focus as the newly installed President will be to oversee operations. At the same time, counselors and mid-level managers will continue serving individuals in several programs, one of which was developed by McNelis and helped to level the playing field for people with disabilities looking for jobs.
TRS’s Berks Personnel Network has provided training, employment and support services to hundreds of trainees throughout the county. Presently, more than 70 photo license technicians work for photo license centers in the area and as part of the Custodial Services Operations two TRS crews clean the Reading State Office Building five days a week.
It’s no wonder McNelis’ influence and entrepreneurial spirit are recognized within TRS and the larger Berks community. “Mac’s incredible leadership, support and insights will be missed by his many colleagues and friends at both TRS and those in the broader mental health community,” wrote Albert Dallao, Chairman of the Board, of TRS.
McNelis’ commitment to enhancing the quality of life for persons with disabilities will continue to bear fruit through his professional investments in human services. Michalik is ready to carry those contributions even further.
If Michalik takes McNelis’ advice, he’ll trust his instincts and values, rely on his management team, and paint the lobby “to let all who enter know there’s a new leader in town.”
Threshold Rehabilitation Services, Inc., is a nonprofit human services agency that provides various services to persons with disabilities in four areas of need, including intellectual and developmental, mental health, residential treatment for adults, and vocational training and employment through business partnerships.
