JEFFERSON CITY – Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (MODDC) Executive Director Vicky Davidson has announced her retirement effective March 31, 2024.
Vicky Davidson has forty years of experience working with people with disabilities. Over 35 years of her career, she was with the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council, working toward statewide systems change and policy development that impacts individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, serving as a strong advocate for people with disabilities.
Following Hurricane Katrina, Vicky became active in the emergency management arena focusing on working with individuals with disabilities, their families and providers of services. For several years before returning the Council, she managed Missouri’s State Health Department’s Emergency Response Center where she gained experience responding to the H1N1 pandemic, ice storms with massive power outages, flooding, tornadoes and other public health emergencies.
Vicky’s passion is providing people with disabilities the tools they need for preparedness and recovery from disasters. She served as Chair of Missouri’s Access and Functional Needs Committee for seven years and is a voting member of the National Advisory Council for Individuals with Disabilities in Disasters (NACIDD). Vicky also served as the Chair on the Board of Directors for Missouri Protection and Advocacy Services.
She is a parent and family member of individuals with disabilities who enjoys spending time with her daughter hiking, traveling and nature photography.
“I’m grateful for the privilege of working alongside such exceptional individuals throughout my career,” said Davidson. “Each person has left an indelible mark on my journey, shaping not only my work, but also my heart. Thank you all for the invaluable lessons, memories and treasured friendships that I will carry with me into my retirement.”
MODDC is pleased to announce Emily Hartley as Vicky’s successor. Emily has over twenty years experience, including her work as Deputy Director under Vicky’s leadership.
The Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (MODDC) is a federally-funded, 23-member, consumer-driven council appointed by the Governor. Its mandate under P.L. 106-402, the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, is to assure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have access to needed community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination, independence, productivity and integration in all aspects of community life.
To learn more about the work of the MODDC or to get involved, visit: https://moddcouncil.org/