June Malachowski, LMSW

Tell us about your role and how long you've worked at MI-DDI.

I began working at MI-DDI as a student assistant in 2015. I have been a research assistant since 2016. 

Is there anything or anyone who led you to work in this field? Tell us about it.

I have a son who has a learning disability, a nephew who has an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, and a cousin who had a Down Syndrome diagnosis before he passed away. I learned about MI-DDI while I was in a research class taught by Ann Carrellas who worked for MI-DDI at the time. She told me about the student position, I applied, and have been there ever since. 

Tell us about your education and professional affiliations.

• Master's of Social Work from Wayne State University (2015)
• Bachelor's of Social Work from Marygrove College (2014)
• Board of Directors - MCFARES (Michigan Coalition for Fetal Alcohol Resources, Education, and Support)
• Member - National Center on Criminal Justice & Disability, The Arc
• Member - Michigan Association for Evaluation

What project(s), program(s), and/or research are you currently focused on?

• National Core Indicators for Michigan
• Michigan Alliance for Families - Consumer Satisfaction
• RRTC: Can You Hear Me Now?

What experiences have you learned an important lesson from?

Coordinating people while working on projects. I learn a new skill every year!

What is your favorite part about working at MI-DDI?

I like that we work as a team to accomplish the same goal of supporting persons with I/DD and their families. I like that I am continually learning. I do not want to work somewhere that does not teach me new things. 

What's your superpower?

Adapting to change. Each project presents a change every year that I have to adapt to, especially during the COVID pandemic. My motto is "go with the flow". 

What do you enjoy to do in your spare time?

I like movies, camping, trying new things, and spending time with my family.

Tell us about your most rewarding experience in the past year.

I have enjoyed teaching my first social work intern. Throughout the process, we have learned skills about ourselves that we can use as we progress through our career. 

Do you have a hidden talent, skill, or hobby? What is it?

I can crochet blankets. I look forward to making a baby blanket for my grandchild who is due in September 2021.