Board & Councils
The Board of Directors
The Board of Directors primarily works on issues related to the governance of Disability Rights Washington. In collaboration with our Advisory Councils, the Board approves the priorities, policies and annual budget for Disability Rights Washington. The Board is also responsible for strategic planning and oversight of the Executive Director. The Board meets on the first Wednesday evening of March, June, and December, as well as the third Wednesday evening of September.
- Vertesia Gutierrez, Chair
- Jennifer Mankoff, Vice-Chair
- Ryan Nabors, Secretary
- Bakary Sanneh, Treasurer
- Jillian Cutler
- Vickie Horschel
- Angela Mika Holton
- Kim Mayer
- Haley Miller
- Teaera Hayes, DAC Chair
- Von-Na Chism, MHAC Chair
The Mental Health Advisory Council
The Mental Health Advisory Council (MHAC) is a federally mandated advisory council for the Protection and Advocacy System for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) grant. MHAC advises Disability Rights Washington on priorities and issues important to people receiving mental health services. The MHAC meets on the first Saturday morning of February, May, August, and November. To learn more about the council or learn how to join a meeting visit the MHAC page.
- Von-Na Chism, Chair
- Kathleen Welch, Vice-Chair
- Peter Durning
- Amy Jones
- Javan Jones
- Susan Lane
- Claudia Linares
- Ryan Qualls
- Khushi Yadav
The Disability Advisory Council
The Disability Advisory Council (DAC) advises Disability Rights Washington on priorities and issues important to people with disabilities, particularly around civic engagement. The DAC has focused on building power within the disability community by supporting DRW’s Protection and Advocacy for Voting Accessibility (PAVA) work created under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA). The DAC meets on the first Wednesday evening of February, May, August and November. To learn more about the council or learn how to join a meeting, visit the DAC page.
- Teaera Hayes, Chair
- Olando Ngoh
- Jordan Landry
- Maddi Loates
- Sarah Hamby
- Lorely Drees
- Esther Warwick
Volunteer Application
Complete the Volunteer Application Form to be considered for either the Board of Directors or an Advisory Council position.
All three of the above bodies make occasional changes to their schedules and Disability Rights Washington’s Seattle office is a secure building, please contact Disability Rights Washington by phone or email prior to attending a meeting. All members receive reimbursement for travel expenses, and for members who need them, disability-related accommodations are provided.
Finance and Audit Committee
The Finance and Audit Committee exists to assist the Board in fulfilling its fiduciary oversight responsibilities.
Development and Awareness Committee
The Development and Awareness Committee exists to help ensure Disability Rights Washington has the financial resources necessary for pursuing our mission through funding raising and outreach activity.
