Leadership Transition

A Message from Dave Wickstrom:
Executive Director
Alliance of Disability Advocates, Raleigh, NC

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” —Winnie-the-Pooh

For the past 32 months, I’ve had the privilege to work at Alliance of Disability Advocates as the Executive Director with some of the most amazing colleagues anyone can ask for. The work they have and continue to do as team to bring light and hope to those with disabilities is one of the most important things anyone can do. In these short 32 months, my colleagues have accomplished so much and are on a path to continue to do some amazing work. That is why it is with both excitement and sadness that I must tell you that I am transitioning from Alliance of Disability Advocates as Executive Director as of December 31, 2018. I am taking a position in Washington, DC with the Administration for Community Living (ACL) which is a part of the US Department of Health and Human Services. At ACL, I will be joining a team that supports Centers for Independent Living and State Independent Living Councils nationwide.

Let me be very clear, without my colleagues dedication and passion at Independence Place in Lexington, Kentucky and Alliance of Disability Advocates here in Raleigh, I would not have this opportunity. I am forever grateful to them for allowing me to serve alongside them and have this new opportunity. To continue to support my amazing colleagues at Alliance of Disability Advocates, the Board of Directors has named Vicki Smith, former Executive Director of North Carolina’s Protection and Advocacy agency, Disability Rights North Carolina, as the Executive Director. Vicki comes with over 30 years of disability rights advocacy and leadership as well as being highly respected around the state and country.

I could not be more thankful of the opportunity I’ve had in Raleigh to serve the disability community and will always hold my time here close to my heart.

Sincerely,