Leadership
Vickie Kean
In the course of a diverse 41 year career in all aspects of disability services, Vickie brings a wealth of experience to Don Moss & Associates (DMA). She has earned a reputation for providing skilled and practical guidance as an advocate on behalf of people with disabilities.
Vickie worked with Don Moss & Associates for 11 years as a lobbyist where she has received training and advice from Don Moss who was not only her mentor but her close friend. Sadly, Don passed away in April, 2015 but not before preparing Vickie to carry on his legacy of making sure the DMA members are full represented.
Vickie is currently President of Don Moss & Associates, where she is able to put her years of experience to work within the legislative system and policy making arena of the State of Illinois.
Vickie not only provides vital triage services to DMA members, she also provides support, advocacy, and connections to important resources for agency future planning and stability.
In Memory of Don Moss
After receiving an MA in psychology from Roosevelt University in Chicago, Don worked for several human service agencies in the Chicago area. In 1962 he joined the ARC of Illinois were he served as its Executive Director for 28 years. During that period, he received numerous citations and awards for his advocacy for persons with disabilities and his successes in the prevention of disabilities in young children. Over the years, four Illinois Governors appointed him to head up committees and task forces to develop services for persons with disabilities.
He has been honored by the President’s Committee on Mental Retardation and in 1987 was presented the ARC/United States Award for Outstanding Executive Director nationwide. He has also been honored by the Illinois State Senate and House of Representatives and the Illinois Attorney General for his legislative advocacy to prevent disabilities and to improve care and services for children and adults with disabilities. In May, 2003 he was presented with United Cerebral Palsy Association’s award for national leadership in disability advocacy.
In 1990, Don retired from the ARC and created his own consulting business specializing in disability advocacy and prevention efforts. He served on numerous state boards and committees designed to improve disability services throughout the state.
In 2015, Don Moss passed away at the age of 85 leaving a legacy that many have come to know and respect. Vickie Kean served as Moss' '2nd in command" for nearly ten years and worked jointly with him in preparing to assume the responsibilities of President/CEO of Don Moss & Associates before his passing.
