#AdvocacyMatters: Breaking Norms
February 28, 2025 / #AdvocacyMatters
When we appoint candidates to our board, we prioritize people with disabilities and their loved ones. Society’s norm may have others speak for us, but at DRO we believe in the phrase, “Nothing About Us Without Us."
Susan Koller - who served on our Board of Directors from 2019 until 2024 - is someone we admire, not only for her successes, but for what she brings to the table. Today we celebrate Susan’s latest achievement – being appointed to the Hamilton County Board of Developmental Disabilities. This is the first year that county boards must appoint at least one member who is eligible for services. Susan will be the first person with a disability appointed to the Hamilton County board since this requirement became law.
Susan brings a wealth of knowledge, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and a Master’s degree in Public Administration. Along with her appointment at Hamilton County DD, she is active on several community advisory committees in her area. Susan also worked tirelessly for DRO, attending conferences, speaking at events, and, most importantly, sharing her lived experiences. Being busy and vocal in the disability rights space is incredibly important for Susan, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth. She is also passionate about spreading awareness for mental health as she has had generalized anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder since she was 15.
“My experience with the DRO board prepared me exceptionally well to take on this role. I knew how boards work thanks to DRO – I wasn’t intimidated by being on a board because of DRO,” explained Susan.
According to Susan, she likes learning from other people on the board without disabilities and offering input on how to advocate for others.
“The reason I like this board is that it’s my county so I can give input on the services I use, but I also get to see all the work that the county DDS does,” said Susan. “I know a lot about home and community-based services because that’s what I use, but I wasn’t aware of all the work our board does in education and services for youth.”
People with disabilities are here to stay. We are doing the work, and we are well educated, passionate, and fierce advocates. All we are asking is to be involved, included and considered. Who knows - you might just find you learn something from us along the way. In a world that’s constantly drawing us to divide and conquer, we call on you to come together. We all win when #AdvocacyMatters to everyone.