Institute on Disability at the University of New Hampshire Appoints Associate Director

September 19, 2012

The IOD is pleased to announce the appointment of Susan Fox, M.Ed., M.A., as its Associate Director, effective July 1, 2012.

Sue has been with the IOD since 2002. She currently serves as the co-director of the UNH Center on Aging and Community Living and is a clinical assistant professor with the Institute on Disability. A key aspect of her work involves the development of person-centered home and community-based services for older adults and adults with disabilities to prevent unnecessary institutionalization and to support all citizens to live within their home communities.

Prior to her time at the IOD, Sue served for five years as the State Director of the Division of Developmental Services within the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services. In this capacity, she led the state in expanding family support; implementing continuous quality improvement initiatives; enhancing services to persons with dual diagnoses, forensic issues, and acquired brain disorders; providing family support services to children with chronic health conditions; developing in-home support services for families; reducing the waiting list for services; developing and implementing a Medicaid Buy-In Program; and promoting self-determination.

Including her years working in special education, Sue has been active in regional and statewide initiatives involving older adults and people with disabilities for over 30 years. She serves on numerous community boards including Riverbend Community Health Center, Office of Public Guardian, NH Council on Developmental Disabilities, and Concord Regional Health Care. She is the recipient of numerous awards including the Easter Seals NH Service Award and the Granite State Independent Living Community Partner Award.

"Sue Fox brings a wealth of knowledge about disability issues in New Hampshire to this new role at the IOD," said IOD Director Charles Drum. "We are excited about having her compassionate yet effective leadership style play a central role in the growth of our organization. Perhaps most importantly, residents of New Hampshire will benefit from having someone who is skilled in creating a supportive climate."

"I have enjoyed my ten years at the IOD and have the utmost respect for its faculty and staff," said Sue. "I look forward to the challenges this new role presents and believe my wide range of personal and professional experience will be an asset in helping to lead the IOD during this period of organizational change."