.jpg)
We are thrilled to announce our inaugural class of Fellows in our Southwestern Pennsylvania (SWPA) chapter. This cohort of 17 disabled leaders represents an impressive cadre of people from all sectors and hold leadership roles from organizations that are deeply rooted in the fabric of SWPA communities
“This inaugural class is a reflection of the tremendous leadership that already exists in our neighborhoods,” said Jess Grainger, Regional Director of Disability Lead SWPA. “These Fellows are the people shaping our communities every day—through their creativity, their advocacy, their work in our schools, businesses, non-profits, and civic spaces. We are honored to invest in their leadership and celebrate their contributions to Pennsylvania.”
Our goal is for our Network to reflect the diversity of the SWPA region. Here are some highlights from the applicant pool: 17% of applicants identify with having a physical disability, and there was a wide diversity in other types of disabilities. Close to 40% identified with a sexuality as other than heterosexual. And 35% of applicants were employed in the non-profit sector, and with a large representation from the ‘Community and Social Services’ field.
“It is thrilling to be at this stage of Disability Lead’s first national expansion effort and to finally announce our inaugural class of Fellows,” said Emily Blum, CEO OF Disability Lead. “Together, with Southwestern Pennsylvania partners, we are building a chapter that reflects the power and the potential impact of disability leadership in the region.”
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 SWPA
Disability Lead is a network of leaders with disabilities who shift power, transform systems, and redefine systems. 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. The Southwestern Pennsylvania chapter launched in 2025 to build a connected, empowered community of leaders who reflect the diversity, history, and strength of the region. Learn more at www.disabilitylead.org/swpa
Introducing our 2026 Fellows
1. Alycia Washington (She/Her) - Artist, Advocate, Community Connector and back up Artist and Community Connector
2. Alyssa Freeman (She/Her) - Playwright and Disability Advocate
3. Cait Lee (She/Her) - Navigation Program Manager, Elevate NP
4. Cheyenne Hennen (She/Her) - Artist and Advocate, Clinical Research Coordinator, University of Pittsburgh
5. Claire Senita (She/Her) – President, NextStep Pittsburgh
6. Connor Griffin (They/He) - College Coach, Evolve Coaching
7. Hunter Steinitz (She/Her) - Youth Engagement Specialist, Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN)
8. Jeff Lukacsena (He/Him) - Fundraising Consultant
9. Joe Was (He/Him) - Talent Acquisition Partner, Giant Eagle
10. Josh Larkin (He/Him) - Communications Advisor, PNC Bank
11. Justin Tapp (He/They) - Social Worker
12. Kayte Rose (They/Them) - Artist and Director of Operations, Pittsburgh Center for Disability Justice
13. Libby Powers (She/Her) - Disability Activist and DEIA Consultant
14. Max Colecchi (He/Him) - Community Organizer
15. Nyota Robinson (She/Her) - Professional Writer and National Disability Advocate
16. Sammie Walker Herrera (She/They) - Public Speaking Trainer & ADHD Coach, Speak Y'all LLC
17. Sean Spence (He/Him) - Head of Career Development, Lights! Camera! Access!