OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Joani Zaccaro Vanicek – Co-Founder
Joani is married to an incredible husband and is a mom to three beautiful children. Two of her children have special needs, and for years she recognized a desperate need for them, and others like them, to have more options when it comes to schools and centers. Joani feels beyond blessed to be partnered with the most amazing team that provides a loving, caring, and member-focused center. God and family are the heart of her life. Joani has over 30 years of experience as a Dental Assistant and is licensed and certified. Additionally, she is a Certified Makeup Artist. In her downtime, Joani enjoys cycling and running.
Michelle Nebbia – Co-Founder
Michelle has been married for thirty-four years and is blessed with three wonderful children and three adorable grandchildren. She has a soft spot for animals and a heart full of compassion. After spending years as a paralegal at a well-respected law firm, Michelle discovered her true passion when she began working with individuals with special needs. She immediately knew this was where she wanted to devote her time, energy, and heart. Michelle’s vibrant personality and uplifting spirit make her a source of happiness for those around her. When she isn’t working, Michelle loves escaping to warm destinations with family, getting lost in a good book, and spoiling her black lab, Hamilton, with long walks and dog cookies.
Michael Nebbia – Co-Founder
Michael, married for thirty-four years, is the proud father of three children and a devoted grandfather of three. Family is at the heart of his life, and he loves celebrating holidays and special moments with the people closest to him. For over thirty years, Michael has built a successful career as an entrepreneur while embracing his gift for leadership. His journey took a meaningful turn when he began working with the special needs community, where he discovered a profound connection and sense of purpose. Inspired by their strength and deserving spirit, Michael is dedicated to creating better experiences and improving the quality of life for each person he has the privilege to support.
Richard Vanicek – Co-Founder
Rich has worked in New York City for many years as a foreman in the glass and decorative metal industry. Rich is happily married with children and has been a resident of Sussex County for thirty-one years. He is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys playing golf and hunting.
Breelagh D’Agostino – Co-Founder
Breelagh is an author and screenwriter. She has a half-dozen published works, which she shares with local schools, neighbors, and the world. She is the caregiver of her husband, Nicholas, who uses a power wheelchair. After spending her entire adult life in public service, she absolutely loves volunteering her time to help the special needs community. They hold the secret to a judgment-free outlook, a positive attitude, and a fresh perspective on life. Breelagh enjoys teaching creative writing to those with special needs, helping them unlock their creative spark or a hidden talent within them. All of her spare time goes to good television, gaming, their cat, Midnight, and of course giving their German Shepherd, Angus, unlimited attention.
Nicholas D’Agostino – Co-Founder
Nicholas is a board member and volunteer with The Capable Crew. He had served on his local board of education for nearly a decade, with the vast majority of those years as President. He has served on the Sussex County Transparency Committee, the ADA Advisory Committee for the Sussex County Board of Elections, and numerous other boards. He is a motivational speaker and has spoken to thousands of residents in our area. After being diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy and growing up in a wheelchair, Nick has a special place in his heart for the special needs community that he belongs to. He is obsessed with his dog and cat. Lastly, he enjoys his Mets, Knicks, Giants, and Rangers, video games, and dabbling in politics.
Anthony D’Agostino – Co-Founder
Anthony is honored to serve on the board of our organization and looks forward to bringing his expertise to The Academy of Possibilities. He is a veteran instructor at a company called Game-U, which focuses on teaching people with developmental disabilities how to make video games. He is a professional 3D Artist, but is also well-versed in coding and animation. In a former life, Anthony, who also uses a power wheelchair, was a highly-acclaimed hip-hop artist, opening for the likes of Mobb Deep, Raekwon (of Wu-Tang Clan), and others. He was invited to perform at Vans Warped Tour. He loves to laugh, watch his sports teams, and play Xbox.
Dorothy Wortche – Trustee
Dorothy is a mother of six amazing children, one of whom has special needs. She is a busy grandmother and great grandmother. Dorothy and her husband have known one another since childhood and have a close bond with each other and their family. They also have a strong faith in God. Dorothy enjoys attending church and time at home with her family and pets.
George Wortche – Trustee
George Wortche is a retired police officer who works in security. He is dedicated to his wife and family, is an extreme animal lover, and enjoys music and playing the guitar.