60 Years of MCD: Alphonsine Allen‑Laney’s Story
April 27, 2026
MCD's Alphonsine Allen‑Laney behind a registration desk welcoming attendees.
When Alphonsine “Phonse” Allen-Laney joined MCD 25 years ago, she didn’t know how profoundly the organization and its people would shape her career. Starting as an administrative assistant, Phonse’s journey has been defined by adaptability, trust, and steady support behind some of MCD’s most innovative programs.
Now executive assistant to MCD’s U.S. Programs, Phonse leverages her institutional knowledge to support complex work across the organization. Over the years, she’s stepped into multiple roles as programs launched and evolved, often becoming the go-to person for new initiatives.
One notable chapter is the Telephonic Diabetes Education and Support (TDES) program. Beginning as a pilot in 2005 with 100 State of Maine employees, TDES quickly expanded to all state employees with diabetes, MCD staff, and members of the Maine Municipal Employees Health Plan. Though TDES concluded in 2025, it remains a meaningful highlight of Phonse’s career and a prime example of MCD’s commitment to practical, people-centered health solutions.
Staff from MCD's telehealth team (from left to right): Reid Plimpton, Michaela Fascione, Danielle Louder, Phonse Allen-Laney, and Andrew Solomon.
Phonse has also been a foundational contributor to the Northeast Telehealth Resource Center since its inception in 2011, returning after brief pauses to support other emerging initiatives, a pattern repeated throughout her career.
This supportive culture has shaped Phonse’s work and her advice to those starting at MCD: growth begins with humility and openness. “Never be afraid to say, ‘I don’t know how to do that. Can someone help me?’” she said. “We are all in this together, and most likely another coworker can help.” Her advice stems from lived experience and the collaborative values she credits for her success.
Beyond programs and titles, Phonse cherishes the people. She’s seen colleagues leave and return, celebrated milestones with teammates, and watched children grow up alongside MCD. She is especially grateful for the trust and encouragement from Danielle Louder, MCD’s co-director of U.S. Programs, whose belief in her has expanded her role and confidence in public health.
Looking back, Phonse is most proud of her growth through work that pushed her beyond her comfort zone. Trusted with new challenges time and again, she’s realized she’s capable of handling whatever comes her way. “The faith my coworkers have in me has been amazing,” she said.
As MCD celebrates 60 years, Phonse’s story reminds us that the organization’s impact is built not only through programs, but through the dedication of people who grow alongside its mission.
“It has been a wonderful journey so far,” she said, and a journey that continues to shape MCD’s story today.