DDS advisory committee thanks retiring members and adjourns

The Department of Developmental Services advisory committee used part of its meeting to recognize several members who will step down. Gunnar Abrahamson named an ARC Connecticut executive director who will be leaving the post at the end of the month (the director was not on the call), then thanked Tracy Walker, who is stepping down as chief executive officer of her agency, and Keith LaVallett, who is retiring after years in the provider and state sectors.

Kathleen Stahl of The Arc Eastern Connecticut noted she is on the hiring committee and confirmed the executive director transition; she asked attendees to recommend candidates for advocacy work. Tracy Walker offered brief remarks of thanks and said she is "semi-retiring" from Journey Found and expects to continue advocacy work in other capacities. Keith LaVallett thanked colleagues and reflected on his career and the value of committee work.

With no other business raised in open discussion, the chair asked for a motion to adjourn. "Motion made by Heather, seconded by Shannon Giacavino," the record shows, and the chair closed the meeting with holiday wishes. No formal roll-call vote was recorded in the transcript.