ANNIE’S PAGE
Rachel Semel: A Champion of Respect and Independence in Employment Services
By Craig Escudé, MD, FAAFP, FAADM
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Rachel Semel
“It was the best part of my week, teaching swim lessons to kids with disabilities. I didn’t know it then, but that’s where it all started.” — Rachel
Rachel Semel’s journey into the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities began not with a formal career plan, but with a mitzvah project when she was just 12 years old. Inspired by her mother, she began teaching swimming lessons to children with disabilities at her local YMCA. “It was the best part of my week,” Rachel recalls. That small act of service sparked a lifelong passion that would eventually lead to her pivotal role in supporting people with disabilities in their path to meaningful employment.
Today, Rachel serves as the Program Manager for the Pre-Employment Program at The Arc of the Northeast in Massachusetts, where she leads initiatives to empower individuals preparing to enter the workforce. Her work includes conducting vocational assessments, delivering skills training, and running weekly employment groups that focus on vital workplace skills like communication and teamwork. Although her official responsibilities have grown, Rachel has maintained personal ties with several of her early job coaching clients. “I simply couldn’t let them go,” she says with a smile.
“Rachel’s authenticity and passion shine through in every aspect of her work, from mentoring individuals one-on-one to advocating for systemic growth within her organization. ”
Rachel’s approach is marked by a deep respect for the people she serves. “What I love about working at The Arc is how everyone is treated like an adult—with dignity and high expectations,” she shares. “Everyone is so loved and respected. We emphasize independence and skill-building that leads to self-sufficiency.” Her perspective reflects a core value of the Annie Sullivan League: recognizing professionals who promote empowerment and equity for individuals with exceptional needs.
Rachel with EG
In her role, Rachel has not only found a place that aligns with her ideals but also a platform for innovation. Her vision for the future includes expanding the pre-employment and employment programs to reach more individuals who might not currently be seen as ready for work. “I believe many more people could be employable if they had the right support, consistency, and opportunities to try jobs in the community,” she explains.
DDS Achievement Awards
Rachel’s authenticity and passion shine through in every aspect of her work, from mentoring individuals one-on-one to advocating for systemic growth within her organization. When asked what comes next, she answers with characteristic humility: “This job was what I was aiming for. Now I want to grow it—so more people can benefit.”
It is with great pleasure that we welcome Rachel Semel into the Annie Sullivan League, honoring her commitment to dignity, independence, and transformative service in the lives of people with disabilities.
About the Author
Dr. Craig Escudé is a board-certified Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Developmental Medicine and President of IntellectAbility. He has more than 20 years of clinical experience providing medical care for people with IDD and complex medical and mental health conditions. He is the author of “Clinical Pearls in IDD Healthcare” and developer of the “Curriculum in IDD Healthcare,” an e-learning course used to train clinicians on the fundamentals of healthcare for people with IDD.