League School Occupational Therapy Assistant Tracey Mello Named Recipient of 2023 Gagliardi Award

League School of Greater Boston is pleased to announce that Occupational Therapy Assistant Tracey Mello has been named as the second annual recipient of the Dr. Frank A. Gagliardi award. The award, named in honor of League School’s long time Executive Director, is given to a League staff member who holds the same commitment and dedication to the school’s mission as Dr. Gagliardi did. 

Tracey joined the League School staff in September 2011. She previously worked as a teacher assistant at South Coast Educational Collaborative in the Early Childhood program, where she was introduced to both Occupational Therapy and the SCERTS Model.

During her more than 12 years at League School, Tracey’s continued flexibility and support have been appreciated by every member of the Pathfinders team. Many students see her as a co-regulator and she consistently embodies neurodiversity-affirming approaches and principles of the SCERTS Model.

In her current role at League School, Tracey provides occupational therapy services to students in the Pathfinders program, focusing on emotional regulation, sensory processing, executive functioning, and fine and visual motor/ADL skills. She enjoys providing support and instruction directly to the students in their natural environments, as well as supporting students in the community on class trips and at community vocational sites. She particularly enjoys attending graduation ceremonies for students, where she can celebrate all of the growth and accomplishments they’ve achieved during their time at League School.

“When I began a new career in the field of occupational therapy, my family and friends were unwavering in their encouragement and support, especially my parents, sister, and my children, Adam and Emma,” Tracey said. “Also, I would not be the employee I am without the amazing professionals I have had the pleasure to learn from and work with every day, especially the Occupational Therapists at League. Lastly, it’s the students I work with who amaze me each day and make my job pleasurable and meaningful!”

Tracey holds two associate’s degrees from Bristol Community College, one in Occupational Therapy Assistance and one in General Studies. She is the second recipient of the Gagliardi Award, following the inaugural recipient, BCBA Sarah Lussier, who was honored at last year’s Night of Champions event. 

“Tracey embodies the commitment, dedication and passion of Dr. Gagliardi, and is a perfect choice for this award,” said League School’s Director of Education Patrick Fuller. “Her support of both students and staff has always been inspirational, and on top of that she does everything with a smile and a tremendously positive attitude. We are incredibly fortunate to have her on our team and on behalf of the entire staff we congratulate her on this honor.”

Tracey will be presented with the Dr. Frank A. Gagliardi award at this year’s Night of Champions event, which will take place Thursday, Oct. 5 at the Four Points Sheraton in Norwood. For more information, visit secure.qgiv.com/event/2023noc.