Thirty two years ago I met a young mother who was seeking better education programs for her daughter. I remember it well because I was very pregnant with my first child — something we laugh about today. We met in the office of the Director of Special Education on Newburg Road, and together we began what has become a long road of advocacy on behalf of and in support of thousands of families in our community who have children and adults with disabilities.

"There are no good-byes, where ever we are, you’ll always be in my heart."

~ Susan

That mother was Susan Wolf Lawrence, our Parent Outreach Director. Our 32 year professional and personal relationship began that day—she was a loving mother, a ferocious advocate, and a caring and supportive person. She had and continues to have the gift of reaching out and helping families in need—families who are new to developmental disabilities, families who are confused and overwhelmed by the service system and bureaucracy of disability services, and families who just need someone to talk and share their joys and challenges. Shortly after our initial meeting, Susan became an active volunteer with the Council working with the Education Committee, Parent Outreach Committee, and Board.

After some “encouragement” Susan agreed to come to work for the Council in the Parent Outreach program—first on a part-time basis and then full time. The rest is history! Her leadership and creativity have been a gift to the community and to the thousands of families she has touched during the past twenty years. She shared her most personal stories—the triumphs, the joys, and the losses. She turned her life experiences into helping others through their darkest times and their most joyful moments.

Susan will be retiring at the end of December. Her shoes will be difficult to fill; however, in her usual gentle but firm way, she has identified and has been mentoring another wonderful parent who will be assuming many of her responsibilities—Pamela McDaniel. When Susan first shared her retirement plans with me many months ago, I felt a great sense of loss—a personal one and a Council one. Although it has taken time, I realize that Susan will always be a part of my life and a part of the Council. She will be watching carefully as we move forward, gently encouraging us to always remember our mission to families. Yes, we will miss Susan, but we will never forget her wonderful work. We have been blessed, and we celebrate her retirement.