Staff Spotlight: Dan Berland

1. In what ways does your role help support the work of NASDDDS members?

In my role, I have the opportunity to represent the perspective and expertise of NASDDDS members to both the federal legislature and the federal administration, working to ensure that the voice of our members informs legislation and executive branch policy direction. I also provide analysis and interpretation of new federal laws, regulations, and guidance to help our members keep abreast of changes in federal requirements that impact state I/DD systems. I have the privilege of working closely with our National Policy Work Group, composed of NASDDDS members, who help guide our federal policy positions and strategy.

2. What does a typical day look like for you as a member of the NASDDDS team?

I suspect very few of us at NASDDDS have a typical day. My day might include meeting with legislative staff on Capitol Hill or with executive branch officials; analyzing and responding to potential legislation, whether in final form or during its development; preparing comments on behalf of NASDDDS in response to proposed regulations; working in collaboration with national disability organizations and our sister state government associations; and summarizing recent federal policy developments for our members.

3. What aspects of your work bring you the most joy, and what do you enjoy most outside your professional life?

I am proud to represent NASDDDS in the public arena, whether I’m connecting the experts in our membership or on our staff to Members of Congress looking for guidance on a particular issue, collaborating with disability advocacy organizations to ensure federal policy reinforces our members’ work to provide high-quality supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, or speaking to groups around the country about our members’ successes and challenges. When I’m not working, you’re likely to find me on the tennis court, enjoying a good book, or searching for the best meal in the area.