ACL Principal Deputy Administrator Provides Keynote

On August 7, NASDDDS was honored to host, alongside our valued partners—NADD, the National Association of State Head Injury Administrators (NASHIA), and the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD)—The Link Center’s Children’s Summit in Washington, DC.
NASDDDS extends deep gratitude to the Administration for Community Living and their Principal Deputy Administrator, Mary Lazare, whose leadership and partnership were instrumental in making this summit possible. We also thank the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for their support, and our federal colleagues at CMS, ASPE, and ACF for joining this essential conversation.

This dynamic event convened a cross section of attendees including those with lived experience, state leaders, clinicians, national associations, and subject matter experts to address a critical challenge: improving supports for children with intellectual and

developmental disabilities (I/DD), brain injury, and other cognitive disabilities who also experience mental health conditions and may have complex, unmet needs across multiple systems.

Throughout the day, participants shared expertise, explored innovative strategies, and identified opportunities to break down traditional siloes that have often hindered comprehensive support. The level of commitment and collaboration in the room was truly inspiring, underscoring a shared vision for stronger, more integrated systems of support.

A special note of appreciation goes to NASDDDS Board Members Jody Roberts, Director of the Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services, and Brad Turner, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging, as well as the many NASDDDS members who contributed their time and expertise to this important work.

This is only the beginning. The collaboration and determination demonstrated at the summit signal meaningful progress ahead. To learn more about The Link Center and its work to connect systems and strengthen supports for children and families, visit The Link Center here.