Council News

Dear Council Members & Friends, I am honored to announce the selection of Donovan Fornwalt as the Council’s next Executive Director.

Donovan has worked for the council for fourteen years, serving as the Council’s Director of Governmental Affairs, and has been instrumental in expanding the funding of the developmental disability service system within our community and state. He is a graduate of Berea College, a passionate advocate for those with disabilities, and committed tot he Council’s mission and vision. The Executive Committee of the Council worked diligently in the selection process, and the Board of Trustees confirmed it’s decision to hire Donovan as the Council’s sixth executive director at its April 30th board meeting.Donovan will assume his new responsibilities on June 1st. I believe that our membership and constituents will join the board and staff in our enthusiasm about new leadership and our commitment to supporting Donovan.

The year of transition for the for the Council and for me personally has been an interesting and sometime challenging time. Change is always challenging, and I’m so grateful that together we have managed the transition and our united in our optimism for the future of the Council. The Council-its families, its volunteers and leaders, its staff-has been a major part of my adult life and the lives of my children. It has been a gift. I have been blessed by the people we serve, the mission of our work, and the vision to which we all strive. It has been an amazing 43 years, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything! Thank you all.

I am especially pleased to be able to turn over the reins of leadership to my friend and colleague, Donovan Fornwalt. I will watch with pride as he leads the Council through the next couple of decades. With you help and his talent, the Council will continue to grow and make a difference in the lives of children and adults with developmental disabilities in our community.