When schools began shutting down because of a global pandemic, Steve Beane ’13 found himself thinking that we would all need each other during this time. So, he decided to pull together a Facebook group of fellow Thomas College education program alumni to share their ideas and offer support.

Steve lives in Massachusetts and uses applied behavior analysis in home therapy for kids with autism. His job has changed a bit since this all began, but he is adapting because the kids need him now more than ever.

When asked how he still says connected to his young students and families he says, “FaceTime and feelings!”

Steve said his experience at Thomas College prepared him for this trying time taught him the importance of compassion and community.

“At Thomas, I can’t even tell you how many fellow students, faculty, and people in Waterville I’d give the shirt off my back to. Going to such a great school and always having the education faculty put you in the community with mentor teachers to help you learn and grow along with their teaching is everything.”

Steve said one of his advisors from back at Thomas FaceTimed him last week to see how things were. “What other schools have that?”