The Board of Directors of South Shore Support Services is pleased to announce the promotion of Kristine Marquis to Chief Executive Officer, effective December 1, 2026. Marquis, a seasoned human services leader, succeeds the organization's founder, Mary Burt, who is retiring after 31 years of exceptional leadership.
Marquis currently serves as the Director of Momentum at South Shore Support Services, where she founded and scaled the largest “Agency With Choice” self-direction program in Massachusetts. Under her leadership, the program became a flagship model for individualized supports and services, recognized for its significant growth, fiscal sustainability and close collaboration with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS).
“Kristine is an exceptional leader with deep roots in this organization and an unwavering commitment to the families we serve,” said Wendy Ellison, Board Chair. “Her unique blend of vision, creativity, fiscal discipline and person-centered values makes her the right person to guide South Shore Support Services into its next chapter of growth and impact.”
Marquis’ career is marked by strategic growth and innovation. Alongside her current role, she co-founded and served as Operations Manager for Plymouth County Family Support, helping launch a non-profit dedicated to providing social inclusion and support services to local families. Her extensive background includes leadership roles at The Arc of Greater Plymouth, Inc. and recognition as a DDS Leadership graduate and state-wide advisor.
“I am honored to step into the role of CEO,” said Marquis. “Since joining this organization in 2020, I have seen our agency evolve into a $27 million leader in the field and I am incredibly proud of the growth and stability we have achieved together. I am excited to build on that momentum, continuing to scale our services to ensure even more individuals and families in our community have access to the choice, dignity, and opportunity they deserve.”
Mary Burt will remain in an advisory capacity through the end of 2026 to ensure a seamless leadership transition. “I am incredibly proud of this organization,” said Burt. “Kristine has been a trusted leader for many years, and her collaborative approach makes her the ideal successor.”
About South Shore Support Services
South Shore Support Services is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live full, self-directed lives as valued members of their communities. Serving 1,000 individuals and families across Southeastern Massachusetts, the organization provides individualized supports that promote independence, dignity and choice. Through a person-centered approach, South Shore Support Services partners with the people they support, their families and community stakeholders to foster inclusion, strengthen connections and create opportunities for meaningful participation in everyday life.
To live a life filled with purpose, which is the purpose of life.