World Institute on Disability

The World Institute on Disability "is an internationally recognized public policy center organized by and for people with disabilities. It works to strengthen the disability movement through research, training, advocacy and public education to help people with disabilities throughout the world enjoy increased opportunities to live independently.

"Founded in 1983 by leaders of the Independent Living Movement, WID's work focuses on issues and problems that directly affect people’s ability to live full and independent lives. WID’s programs address employment, economic development and financial stability issues; conduct research and policy analysis on personal assistance services, accessible health care, technology and other topics; and provide assistance to non governmental organizations (NGOs) and disabled leaders in developing countries." The Institute was cofounded by the late Ed Roberts, Judy Heumann, and Joan Leon.


 * Kathy Martinez - Executive Director

Directors
Accessed November 2008:


 * Chair: Martin B. Schulter - Director/ADA Compliance Officer, Disability Resource Center, San Jose State University
 * Vice-Chair: Samuel A. Simon, J.D. - Chairman, Amplify Public Affairs, LLC
 * Treasurer: Elissa R. Theilen - Partner, The Beacon Group
 * Secretary: Ken R. Chrisman - Former Executive Vice President, Retail Technology Services, Wells Fargo Bank


 * Stephen E. Beard - Real Estate Consultant
 * Susan T. Daniel - Principal, Employee Relations Consultants
 * Linda M. Dardarian - Goldstein, Demchak, Baller, Borgen & Dardarian
 * Henry M. Duque - Consultant
 * Lynn E. Fielder - Former Vice President, Planned Parenthood Mar Monte, Inc.
 * Patrick R. Gaston - President, Verizon Foundation
 * Neil Jacobson - Former Vice President, Information Technology, Wells Fargo Bank
 * Susan P. Mazrui - Director, Federal Regulatory Affairs, Cingular Wireless
 * Marylyn Thornton - Financial Analyst, San Francisco Injury Center, University of California, San Francisco
 * Susan E. Walters - Senior Vice President, California Emerging Technology Fund
 * Stanley K. Yarnell, M.D. - Former Director, Dept. of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, St. Mary's Medical Center

Contact

 * Web: http://www.wid.org