I‘ve had the pleasure of so many different opportunities over some 47 years to learn from people with significant disabilities and their families. I have also had the honor of getting to know, through 35 years of TASH membership, some of the greatest movers and shakers in our field like Lou Brown, Jim Conroy, Tia Nellis, Ann Donnellan, and too many others to name. My career has exposed me to the horrors of institutions and use of punishments, the excitement of developing community residences, the promise of new strategies like positive behavior supports and inclusive education, the disappointment in failed attempts at true systems change, and renewed hope in the possibilities of customizing employment, self-directed support, thinking college, and collaborating with community members in overcoming barriers by working outside the silos of services. My favorite “work” is with People First of Connecticut and Proud Parents leaders. I’ve also been involved with the TASH New England chapter forever, love teaching and schmoozing and meeting new people. I even met my husband, Mark Partin, at TASH and all four of my children have been welcomed at various TASH functions over the years.  Sadly, my two oldest children who would be in their mid-30’s have passed away but Mark and I really enjoy time with our other daughter and son (both in their early 30’s) and our two beautiful granddaughters. I love my two dogs and 3 cats. Mark lives the cats, too.  The dogs? Not so much.  In short, you can talk to me about anything — past, present, and future, professional or personal!