Thank You, Commissioner Jane Ryder, for Your Dedication and Service

As we reflect on Commissioner Jane Ryder’s retirement, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible partnership we have enjoyed with her and the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). 

Jane Ryder has participated in our annual Meet the Commissioners event every year since its inception, always taking the time to engage with our community and listen to the concerns and hopes of families. With her support, we have also partnered closely with DDS to connect families with extra services and new financial stipends for young adults who turned 22 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Commissioner Ryder’s commitment to ensuring accessible, high-quality, person-centered services has had a profound impact on countless individuals with disabilities across the Commonwealth.

As Kate Walsh, head of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services noted, “Commissioner Ryder boasts a remarkable 34 years of public service, 29 of which were with DDS, and has served for six as Commissioner. Under her leadership, DDS enhanced and expanded accessible and quality services while ensuring a person-centered approach to this work, creating a space for us all in the Commonwealth to better understand the needs of and to provide opportunities for those DDS serves.”

Pam Nourse, Executive Director of FCSN, added, “We have truly enjoyed working with Jane Ryder throughout her remarkable career. Her dedication to helping individuals with disabilities has made a lasting difference in our community, and we are incredibly grateful for her leadership and partnership over the years. On behalf of our entire organization, we wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement.”

Many in our community benefit directly from the vital support of DDS, and we are deeply invested in continuing to partner with them moving forward. We eagerly await further updates from the Executive Office of Health & Human Services, and we will be sure to share relevant news with our families.