As many of you already know, after 28 years as KFI’s executive director I will retire on May 18, 2012. My time at KFI has been a wonderful experience and together we have helped people with disabilities to have real lives, lives unimagined just a few years ago, but lives that not only are meaningful to the people we support but also improve their communities because of the gifts and talents they share with others. While I move to a new life adventure, KFI will continue in the very capable hands of Gail Fanjoy, who has been chosen as the organization’s new executive director. I know that you will welcome Gail to her new position and give her your support in her new job. Following is an official announcement from KFI’s Board of Directors.
KFI’s Board of Directors is delighted to announce it has selected Gail Fanjoy to become the organization’s new Executive Director, replacing Jim Meehan who will retire in May 2012.
Gail began her KFI career over 35 years ago as a speech therapist. Her positions and responsibilities grew and changed over the years and currently she is the Director of Quality and Innovation. Gail has been instrumental in the organization’s transformation to one with a national reputation for excellence and cutting edge services. As part of KFI’s core leadership, she has tirelessly and passionately advocated for the rights of people with disabilities to lead regular lives; that is, to live, work and participate in their communities in the same way as any other citizen. This strongly held belief has resulted in KFI earning two national awards for its impact on people becoming fully participating members of their communities.
Gail is a gifted speaker who has presented at national conferences in more than 20 states. She is a sought after consultant who has worked with organizations in Maine, New York and Arizona. In the fall of 2011, Gail was elected to the national Board of Directors of TASH, an advocacy organization that has promoted equity, opportunity and inclusion of people with disabilities for over 36 years. She chairs TASH’s Community Living Committee and is a National Advisor for the Collaboration to Promote Self-Determination.
Regionally, Gail serves as Co-President on the Board of Directors for TASH – New England, where she was a keynote speaker at the 2011 regional conference. Gail serves in numerous capacities on a state-wide basis including as a member of the Board of Directors of Maine APSE, an organization advancing employment in community jobs for people with disabilities; the Maine Partnership for Values Based Practice, a statewide group of state and provider representatives; the Community Advisory Council for the Center for Community Inclusion and Disability Studies at the University of Maine; and the American Red Cross, Pine Tree Chapter Board of Directors.
Locally, Gail serves on the Millinocket Regional Hospital Board of Trustees and Katahdin Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Gail was also elected to Millinocket’s Town Council from 1997 to 2006 and was the Chairperson for three years.
The Board recognizes and appreciates Gail’s long commitment to KFI and is delighted to find a leader of national caliber already working within the organization. The Board is extremely pleased that Gail will lead with her demonstrated commitment to respectful supports for people with disabilities.
