Lighting the Path to Healing: Ken Bates’ Journey from Assumption to Open Sky

Growing up in a large family in Worcester, Ken Bates always felt the pull to help others. As a first-generation college student, he saw his degree as more than just a credential—it was a pathway to making a genuine difference. Ken’s journey in Assumption University’s Master’s in Clinical Counseling Psychology shows how dedication, empathy, and rigorous training can come together to uplift individuals and communities.

During his time at Assumption, Ken drew inspiration from professors like Dr. Ed O’Reilly, a pioneer in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Learning to challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors was eye-opening for Ken, who immediately saw how these practices could transform lives. Even more profoundly, he found a mentor who cared personally about his growth. “Assumption is so community-based. The faculty really care about all of the students, including me.”

Ken also credits Dr. Len Doerfler, whose passion for tangible, evidence-based results left a lasting impression. As a testament to the lasting, full-circle relationships fostered at Assumption, Ken’s professor Dr. Doerfler later served on the board at Open Sky Community Services, where Ken is now President and CEO.

At Open Sky, Ken leads a team dedicated to working with individuals facing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, developmental disabilities, homelessness, incarceration, and more. Under his leadership, the organization prioritizes a person-centered approach, offering excellent clinical services and programs like housing assistance, job training, and even arts-based therapy.

“I really wanted to make a difference in my own backyard. I needed clinical skills and an understanding of evidence-based practices to build a career in human services. And assumption encourages you to really connect it to the community”

That philosophy has flourished at Open Sky, where hundreds of Assumption graduates have worked over the past few years, continuing the cycle of mentorship and support. Ken believes in hiring staff with lived experiences similar to those they serve, calling it “a best practice that brings genuine understanding and hope to the people who walk through our doors.”

Whether it’s forging strong local partnerships or encouraging his team’s ongoing professional development, Ken stays true to the resilience and faith he honed at Assumption. “It’s about lifelong learning,” he says. “At Assumption, there’s a real culture of growth and creating opportunities, and this idea of that growth is lifelong.”  Ken finds inspiration and support in the community of friends he’s built at Assumption, and in the deep roots he’s grown in his local community.