Independence Now today announces the appointment of its next Executive Director, Diane Palmer.
“Independence Now is privileged to have a board composed of leaders in disability rights committed to independent living and workforce development in the state,” said Independence Now Search Committee Chair and Treasurer of the Board, Donna Herring. “On behalf of the board of directors and staff, we are eager to work with Diane Palmer in her new role as Executive Director. With an impressive background, Diane joins Independence Now to lead at an important time in our 30-year history.”
With Independence Now’s experienced leadership team as support, Diane will be well-positioned to lead Independence Now in the next chapter of growth, focused on disability rights, fundraising, external relations, and enhancing programs for individuals with disabilities.
“Maryland’s citizens with disabilities deserve access to resources for information and referrals, advocacy, peer support, independent living skills training, and transition tools for their journey, and businesses must have access to a future-ready workforce to thrive,” states Palmer. “Independence Now stands at the intersection of disability rights at a time of enhanced focus and urgency on outcomes for individuals with disabilities. I am excited for the opportunity to collaborate with the Board and to work with our amazing Independence Now staff in our next chapter.”
Palmer has many years of experience in nonprofit and corporate leadership roles, including most recently serving as Executive Director of the Maryland Foundation of Dentistry, an organization dedicated to providing dental services to vulnerable and disabled populations throughout Maryland. Palmer’s career has been devoted to expanding access and resources for disadvantaged and underserved populations, including seniors and people with disabilities. In a prior role as the Deputy Executive Director of Communications and Customer Service for the Regional Transportation Authority in Chicago, Palmer managed the statewide free and reduced rides and paratransit programs for seniors and adults with disabilities.
“Independence Now can be assured of my passionate commitment and professional expertise to sustain and strengthen programming, inspire and engage staff, and most importantly, maintain a laser focus on maximizing resources for customers in partnership with the board and other stakeholders. My life’s motto is ‘Generating more for those with less,’ and I look forward to serving Independence Now with this philosophy firmly in mind.”
Ms. Palmer’s appointment as Executive Director begins on Monday, August 5, 2024.
About Independence Now
Independence Now is a nonprofit organization designed, governed, and staffed by people with disabilities. We are part of a nationwide network of Centers for Independent Living providing the following core services: Information and Referral, Advocacy, Peer Support, Independent Living Skills Training, and Transition. Independence Now is a resource and advocacy center that promotes independent living and equal access for people of all ages with all types of disabilities residing in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties.
