Meet the Staff
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Therese Ajtum-Roberts
Center Coordinator
Therese Ajtum-Roberts has devoted most of her career to creating inclusive, equitable, and engaging learning environments. For nearly twenty years, she has supported educators' use of technology, backwards design, and UDL principles to create a responsive, equitable, and inclusive curriculum for all learners. Therese's research interests focus on faculty and in-service teachers' professional development, teaching with technology, and how teachers create responsive, equitable, and inclusive learning environments. Therese is currently serving on the Board of the New England Educational Research Organization as Conference Director and Technology in Education Strand Director.
Natalie McCollam
Graduate Assistant
Natalie is serving as the Chris Walsh Center’s Graduate Assistant for the 2024-25 academic year. She is enrolled in Framingham State University’s Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program, working toward her long-term goal of serving neurodivergent and disabled clients as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Likewise, she completed her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, also at Framingham State. Natalie believes in a neurodiversity affirming, person-centered approach, and brings that perspective to her work as a student, volunteer, and parent. In her free time, Natalie volunteers with ArtRelief, helping facilitate their weekend kid’s programming and the ArtLab, their creative community space. She is also an avid roller skater, volunteering as a coach and official with New England Junior Roller Derby, supporting kids ages 10-17 in a neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ friendly space as they build friendships, learn to work as a team, and strengthen their athleticism and resilience. Last, but not least, Natalie is the mother of two wonderful children and has six adorable pets: four cats, a dog, and an axolotl. When it’s time to slow down, she loves to snuggle up with her human and fur babies to read a good book.
James Cressy
Education Department Chair
Dr. Cressey is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Education Department at Framingham State University. He was the center's first coordinator in 2020-21. His scholarship and teaching are focused on inclusion and equity through evidence-based inclusive practices such as universal design for learning, social-emotional learning, culturally responsive practices, positive behavioral interventions and supports, and multi-tiered systems of support. Before coming to FSU, Dr. Cressey worked directly with children and families for several years as a licensed special educator and nationally certified school psychologist at Wediko Children’s Services and in the Boston Public Schools. He lives in Framingham with his husband and daughter and enjoys spending time with his family and friends, singing and playing musical instruments, cooking, and knitting.
Spencer Dugbartey
Graduate Assistant
Spencer is serving as the Chris Walsh Center’s Graduate Assistant for the 2024-25 academic year. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Biotechnology at Framingham State University. Spencer holds an MPhil in Molecular Medicine and a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, equipping him with extensive experience in laboratory research, diagnostics and public health initiatives. At the Chris Walsh Center, he brings his analytical expertise and problem-solving skills to support research initiatives, outreach programs, and student engagement. Beyond academia, Spencer is actively involved in empowering young adults back in his home country, Ghana through various workshops and mentorship programs. He is also a strong advocate for mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration and global scientific partnerships. In his free time, he enjoys reading and cooking.
Ingrid Barbosa
Sociology Intern - Spring 2025
Ingrid Barbosa is a senior at Framingham State University majoring in sociology. She currently works in nightlife in Boston, and prides herself on developing social skills and networking with people from diverse backgrounds. Ingrid is completing her internship at the Chris Walsh Center located at Framingham State University, where she will gain firsthand experience in her field of study. After completing her degree, Ingrid aspires to become a human resource manager to promote equity in workspaces. In her free time, Ingrid enjoys the company of her friends, loves to cook, and enjoys traveling to different countries and appreciating new cultures.