Meet the Founders

Brad Duquette

Brad Duquette is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Lowell and a veteran of the Army National Guard. His passion for helping young people find clarity around their career path was born out of his own frustration and the missteps he experienced in trying to navigate this crucial life decision at such a young age. This journey had many stops along the entrepreneurial and educational path, including the launch of multiple businesses within higher-ed including one of the country's most trusted collegiate media companies working with hundreds of colleges and national companies. He is also a co-founder of Helpiing, a company focused on inspiring people to help each other through social engagement and connection. Brad lives in Southern New Hampshire with his wife and two children, which he’s glad will have an easier path to making their own “Major Choice” someday.

Ed Goyette

Ed Goyette is a lifelong social entrepreneur who is passionate about enriching the lives of others through his work. Prior to co-founding Major Choice, he was focused on helping parents strengthen their relationship with their children through the launch of a project called “Yours for the Asking” – an engaging program that helps them put action against their child’s curiosities through the art of asking. Ed is also the founder of The Thought Center, an education course production company, and owner of BeanTowne Coffee House, a nationally award-winning café based in New Hampshire. Ed is also a Tedx Speaker and Global Presence Ambassador for one of the largest parenting organizations in the world. He is married and the proud father of three, who are a continuous source of inspiration.

Meet the Education Advisors

Valerie Kipper

Valerie Kipper received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from UCLA, and went on to pursue a teaching credential and Master of Arts degree in Education and Psychology from Pepperdine University. Valerie worked in public health as a Health Educator and Program Coordinator before returning to graduate school at San Diego State University where she earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, as well as a Pupil Personnel Services credential. Valerie has worked for more than ten years in public schools with students from pre-K through 12th grade as a teacher, tutor, administrator, and social worker. In addition, Valerie worked in a private practice psychiatry office for several years. She enjoys supporting young people as they work to realize their full potential. Most recently, Valerie started her own home organizing and decluttering business, specializing in helping adults with mental health challenges. In her spare time, Valerie enjoys reading, going for walks, and karaoke. She lives near Los Angeles, CA with her husband, son, cats, and hamster.   

Cindy Prince

Cindy Prince has a Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Relations from the University
of Connecticut, and a Masters of Social Work degree from Bridgewater State University. She is
a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and has many years of experience working with
young adults (ages 18-24) who aged out of the foster care system. In this role, she addressed
their mental health needs as well as assisted them with finding employment, enrolling in school,
and living independently. She also worked as an Academic Counselor at Bridgewater State
providing guidance to freshman and students with undeclared majors. She is passionate about
working with young adults and feels grateful to be a part of their important journey towards
self-discovery and finding a career path.
She currently lives in San Diego, California with her husband, daughter, and their dog.

Patricia Piacentini

Tricia Piacentini is an educator with more than 20 years of experience. As a parent of two adult sons on the autism spectrum, creating opportunities for people with disabilities has been a life-long passion. Tricia has a Master’s Degree in General Education from Lesley University and a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Fitchburg State University.Tricia started her career as an educator while working for Early Intervention, a program through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Later, in her role as a special education teacher, Tricia worked with administration to create, develop, and implement a program for students on the autism spectrum for Amesbury Public Schools. Additionally, Tricia has worked as a Home Trainer, teaching students with special needs how to generalize their skills across home and community settings. Tricia continues to work with students with disabilities in a co-taught classroom, where students are able to receive services in an integrated setting. Tricia maintains three teaching licenses including Elementary Education, Moderate Special Needs, and Severe Special Needs and holds an Autism Endorsement through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Tricia knows first-hand that adults with disabilities can build rich and meaningful lives through their work. Nothing gives Tricia more joy than watching students prove to themselves how very capable they are. 
Tricia lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two sons.

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