Our Institute is guided by a council of people with disabilities, family members of those with disabilities, and various state partners. This allows us to plan for the future, consider emerging issues, and discuss the Institute's role in promoting full community participation for people with disabilities.
Featured Council Member
Courtney Clark is a passionate self-advocate for herself and others, believing that people with disabilities deserve to live full, productive lives just like everyone else. She is determined to show that, despite her limitations, they do not define her. Courtney is living beyond those limitations and works tirelessly to empower others to advocate for themselves and speak up for their needs.
Courtney became involved with the IIDC’s Advisory Council after being invited by a member of Indiana University, who recognized her longstanding partnership with the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community, her work with Self-Advocates of Indiana, and her personal lived experience.
In her free time, Courtney enjoys reading, cooking, attending concerts, writing, and expressing her creativity in many different ways.
Members of the Council
- Kate Barrow
- Sylvia Brantley
- Courtney Clark
- Frank Epperson
- Shawn Fulton
- Stacey Heath
- Leah Helvering
- Sarah Hurwitz
- Melissa Keyes
- Kate McQueen
- Cori Mitchell
- Chris Myers
- Cynthia Nassim
- Derek Nord, Chair
- Jordan Oliver
- Jenn Piatt
- Chris Stroguiludis
- Karen Vaughn
Featured Council Member
Stacey Heath is a dedicated parent, educator, and advocate based in Bloomington. With a BS in Mild Interventions from Ball State University and a Master's in Coaching and Physical Education, Stacey has spent over 20 years in education, currently teaching at Jackson Creek Middle School. Her passion for Special Education began at the age of 12, and she has remained committed to the field ever since.
In addition to her work as a teacher, Stacey is the mother of a child with Down syndrome, an experience that has deeply shaped her perspective. As both a parent and an advocate, she is passionate about challenging societal perceptions of disability. Stacey believes in the potential and capabilities of all individuals, regardless of whether they have an intellectual disability, Down syndrome, or autism. While many communities offer positive opportunities for people with disabilities, she remains steadfast in her belief that there is always room for growth and improvement in fostering inclusion and understanding.