Our Team
Irina Cain, PhD
Transition Manager, Education & Transition Team
Irina coordinates professional development activities for key staff implementing inclusive postsecondary education initiatives in Massachusetts. She also provides training on transition services to secondary in-service staff and teaches online courses through the UMass Boston Transition Leadership program.
Her research has focused on identifying services and practices that enhance postsecondary quality of life and community inclusion for individuals with disabilities. She has explored key areas such as inclusive education, factors that support a successful transition to adulthood, family involvement in transition planning, and access to services.
Before earning her doctorate, Irina worked as a special education teacher, supporting students in grades 2–12.
Email: Irina.Cain@umb.edu
Lori Cooney, MEd
Program Director, Technology Education & Curriculum Design
Technical Training Specialist, Education & Transition Team
Lori has over 25 years of experience designing and delivering dynamic workshops for PK–16 educators, students, and adults. Her expertise spans Universal Design for Learning (UDL), artificial intelligence (AI), augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), instructional and course design, curriculum development, game-based technology, and learning technology. She specializes in developing Personalized Career and Academic Portfolios (PCAP), assessment strategies, learning outcomes, and differentiated instruction to create meaningful and personalized learning experiences.
Lori leverages her extensive knowledge to support educators and students through webinars, workshops, and individualized coaching. She actively contributes to projects that expand access to learning, ensuring the effective integration of technology-driven instruction.
Lori has received multiple awards for her contributions to educational technology, innovation, and teaching excellence. Beyond her professional work, she is passionate about designing inclusive recreational spaces and playgrounds that foster engagement for all.
Email: Lori.Cooney@umb.edu
Rachel Estremera
MEd MA IPSE Program Coordinator, Education & Transition Team
Rachel oversees the state-funded UMass Boston Massachusetts Inclusive Postsecondary Education (MAIPSE) project, which provides inclusive higher education opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities and autism. Through MAIPSE, she works closely with partnering school districts and community provider agencies to expand access to college-based transition services.
Previously, Rachel served as the interim vocational and residence life coordinator for a MAIPSE program, further strengthening her expertise in inclusive postsecondary education.
Rachel provides technical assistance on college-based transition services. She is deeply committed to helping students navigate their transition to higher education and beyond, ensuring they have the support needed for success in their next adventure.
Email: Rachel.Estremera@umb.edu
Sheila Johnson, MA
Knowledge Translation Associate, Education & Transition Team
Sheila Johnson translates complex research into clear, engaging, and practical content. She has developed learning modules, email marketing campaigns, and social media materials for three ICI projects: the National Coordinating Center, Employment First Florida, and the State Employment Leadership Network.
Before joining ICI, Sheila taught English and communications courses at several colleges across New England, bringing her expertise in effective communication and education to her current role.
Email: Sheila.Johnson@umb.edu
Ashley Luce, MA
Program Manager, Education & Transition Team
Ashley provides consultation on college-based transition services, disability services, college preparation, and the range of support available to students in higher education. With a strong background in higher education, she has served as a program coordinator for Massachusetts Inclusive Postsecondary Education (MAIPSE) and as a disability services coordinator. She has extensive experience coordinating campus support for students with autism, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and psychological disabilities. In addition to program coordination, Ashley has worked one-on-one with students as an academic and educational coach, helping them navigate academic challenges and develop essential skills for success.
Before joining ICI, Ashley was part of a student retention team at Framingham State University, where she connected students with university support services and consulted with faculty and families on academic accommodations to promote student success.
Email: Ashley.Luce@umb.edu
Maria Paiewonsky, EdD
Director, Education & Transition Team
Maria leads the UMass Boston Transition Leadership program, an approved course of study for the Massachusetts Transition Specialist endorsement and a Division of Career Development and Transition teacher accreditation program for transition specialists. She also develops and provides training and technical assistance for state and national initiatives supporting college-based transition services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her work focuses on professional development and promoting the inclusion of students with intellectual disabilities in research on transition services.
Throughout her career, Maria has coordinated numerous secondary and transition-related projects, advancing best practices in the field.
Email: Maria.Paiewonsky@umb.edu
Neranjala Wickramaratne
Program Coordinator, Education & Transition Team
Nera brings 20 years of experience in marketing, customer service, and student services. She supports the Transition Leadership program and the MA Inclusive Postsecondary Education projects, managing program recruitment, student support, activity coordination, partnership collaboration, and outreach efforts to assist individuals with disabilities.
Previously, Nera worked at the Australian College of Business and Technology in her home country for six years and later at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. With a deep commitment to student success, she is passionate about helping individuals access and thrive in higher education.
Email: Nb.Wickramaratne@umb.edu