CEO’s Perspective: True to the Mission

CEO Liz Smith announces her retirement

It is with a lot of emotion and so many memories that I announce my retirement from Unity House, effective the last day of this year.

I have loved my time at Unity House. I am grateful to have worked with so many talented and creative people dedicated to our mission. I’m talking about our amazing frontline staff, our support staff and our volunteer board members. I’m also talking about you. Thank you for all you’ve done to support Unity House, and me, as we worked to empower people with disabilities.

Before coming to Unity House, I worked in a day treatment program that was run by a different organization. The “activities” for people with disabilities were not engaging, not person-centered and not community-based. I came to Unity House in March 1995 hoping I would find a better way. I was not disappointed. My first job here was in the New Life IRA in Auburn. I wrote the service plans for the residents there and in the scattered site apartment program. I loved that job. I loved the challenge of writing person-centered plans, given all the regulations involved. I vividly remember checking in with my co-worker, Darlene Podolak, to get her thoughts on goals I was writing. Darlene was a sounding board for me then, and that continues today in her role as our chief operating officer.

My early experiences as a front-line staff member shaped who I would become as a leader. They’ve helped me stay true to our mission as I took on new roles.

I’m pleased to say that I’m leaving Unity House in excellent hands. The board considered launching a nationwide search for my replacement, but we all knew that the best, most qualified person to take my place is already here. Upon my retirement, Darlene will become Unity House’s new CEO. I know that this organization will remain mission-driven under her leadership.

I have a good life. And for the last three decades, Unity House has been one of the main reasons why. Thank you for being a part of it.

Read more about Liz’s retirement and Unity House’s CEO transition here: Unity House CEO to retire at year’s end