Kerlyne Pacombe

Kerlyne Pacombe is a dedicated Field Education Coordinator at Boston University and a part-time psychotherapist. As a first-generation college student with a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Boston College and a master’s degree in social work from Simmons University, Kerlyne has made a significant impact in the fields of social work and advocacy.

Born to Haitian immigrant parents and living with retinitis pigmentosa, Kerlyne brings a deeply personal perspective to her work. Her passion lies in fostering health and healing by eliminating shame and promoting empathy and understanding. Over the past 20 years, she has been a staunch advocate for justice, particularly for individuals with disabilities and historically marginalized communities.

Kerlyne’s notable contributions include providing substance use counseling and education in Somerville and Cambridge public schools, advocating for immigrant families with children who have differing abilities in Boston Public Schools, and serving as a counselor at Perkins School for the Blind for almost a decade. Additionally, she was Vice Chair of the Disability Commission in the City of Malden and currently serves as a member of the Advisory Board for the Commission for the Blind.

Kerlyne’s unwavering commitment to social justice and her tireless advocacy continue to make a profound difference in the lives of the people she serves.