The Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council is pleased to welcome Adrienne Stuart as the new Director of Public Policy, effective January 13, 2020.

Adrienne brings rich experience to the role as a sibling of a sister with a developmental disability, parent of a young son with developmental disabilities, attorney, civil rights advocate, and governor-appointed member of the Developmental Disabilities Council. She has a passion for promoting full community inclusion by fighting to eliminate systemic barriers in all aspects of life.

As a former grassroots organizer, legislative aide, family law attorney, and executive director of the Community Employment Alliance, Adrienne understands the challenges and hard work of making change happen within large systems.

Believing that those closest to the challenges are closest to the solutions, Adrienne works to ensure that those most affected by policies are empowered to be full participants in systems change efforts. As a frequent presenter of legislative advocacy trainings, Adrienne has helped community groups across the state understand how they can get involved in educating policymakers. Most recently, she worked side by side with self-advocacy leaders on legislation to expand minimum wage protections to persons with disabilities.

Adrienne’s collaborative work with self-advocate, parent and professional organizations assures that the Council will continue to strengthen its partnerships and forge new pathways as we work together to pursue common policy priorities and support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live meaningful, integrated, and productive lives in the community.

We hope you join us in wishing Adrienne a warm welcome as she begins her work with the Council in this new and exciting capacity!