It is the most wonderful time of the year! We are thrilled to announce our 2026 class of Fellows for our Institute. This cohort of disabled leaders represents a dynamic group of 20 leaders from a variety of fields and the non-profit, government, and independent sectors.
Our goal is for our Network to reflect the diversity of the Chicago region. Here are some highlights from the applicant pool: 95% of Chicago applicants identified as having a disability other than physical. During this application cycle, we saw the largest representation across mental health disabilities with 23%, and 18% of applicants' identifying as blind or low vision.
“In celebration of 10 years of Disability Lead, this Institute cohort reminds us why this work matters,” said Emily Blum. “These leaders bring lived experience, vision, and courage, and together they are expanding what leadership looks like and who gets to hold it, so decision-making spaces finally reflect the communities they serve.”
Throughout the year, our Fellows will participate in an immersive learning experience that will prepare them to collaborate and lead with their disability identity, supported by the power of a large, effective network.
About Disability Lead
Disability Lead is a network of leaders with disabilities who shift power, transform systems, and redefine leadership. Established in 2015 during the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act 2015, Disability Lead is the only organization in the nation with a leadership program specifically for leaders with disabilities and that makes connections to opportunities for civic engagement and leadership. Learn more at www.disabilitylead.org
Introducing our 2026 Fellows
1. Aleshia Howell (She/Her) - Technology and Entrepreneurship Education Consultant
2. Barbara Khalouf (She/Her) - Director of Development, Access Living
3. Blair Findlay (She/Her) - Community Fundraising Manager, Erika's Lighthouse
4. Elizabeth Palkoska (She/Her) - Associate Disability Officer, City of Chicago
5. Emily Soriano (She/Her) - Advocacy Manager, CHANGE Illinois
6. Esther Gutierrez (She/Her/Ella) - Senior Policy Analyst, Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities
7. Iliana Haven (They/Them) - Latinx Artist and Disability Justice Housing Organizer, Access Living
8. Jenn Jones (She/Her) - Operations Manager, Disability Lead
9. Jill Zakon (She/Her) - Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Trauma-Informed Therapist
10. Josh Friedberg (He/Him) - Writing Consultant, Author, and Speaker
11. Lauren Schrero (She/Her) - Attorney and Community Engagement Manager, Equip for Equality
12. Mare Liam Ralph (They/Them) - Urban Planner, Organizer, Writer
13. Matt Bodett (He/Him) - Director/Founder, Center for Mad Culture
14. Neha Mody (She/Her) - Business Development Executive
15. Nina Addison (She/Her) - Co-Founder, Homeschool Helps
16. Phyllis Hampton (She/Her) - Advocate for Individuals with Disabilities
17. Susan Pracht (She/Her) - Fair Housing Testing Coordinator, Access Living
18. Theresa Bates (She/Her) - Advocate for Disability Rights
19. Vatonna Dunn (She/Her) - Clinical Trial Financial Manager, Lurie Children's Hospital
20. Yarel Túa (She/Her) - Social Media Strategist and Disability Activist