The MCDD is pleased to share special announcements featuring new board appointees, a new teammate, a continuing education announcement, and recognition of a retiring colleague whose dedication and service have made a lasting impact on the MCDD community.

David Mervis, Esq.,Project HEAL (Health, Advocacy, Education, and Law) staff attorney, has been selected to serve on the board of directors for The Arc Baltimore, a leading organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through employment training, family support and education, advocacy and a wide range of community services. His term begins in July 2026.

Logan Ewing, Esq., Project HEAL staff attorney, was selected in April 2026 to contribute her expertise to Make Studio’s board of directors, where she serves on the development committee. Make Studio provides multimodal arts programming for adults with disabilities, fostering creativity, connection and artistic expression in a supportive and inclusive environment.

The MCDD is pleased to welcome Aryn Watson as our newest team member. Watson recently graduated from Towson University with a degree in public health and previously served as an MCDD trainee, where she contributed to a variety of programs, projects and activities. Through her academic and hands-on experiences, she has developed a strong passion for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. We are excited to have Watson continue her work with the MCDD as she builds her expertise in advocacy, health education and community engagement.

We are excited to share that Kayla Velez, administrative services coordinator, has been accepted into the Johns Hopkins Advanced Academic Programs division, where she will pursue a Master of Arts in nonprofit management. We wish her immense success as she begins this next chapter!

The MCDD extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Jacqueline Stone, PhD, MPA, PT, on her retirement after many years of dedicated service and leadership. Throughout her career, Dr. Stone has been a steadfast advocate for individuals with disabilities and their families, helping to advance the mission of the MCDD through her leadership, mentorship and commitment to community inclusion. Her contributions have strengthened partnerships, expanded access to resources and supported countless individuals across Maryland and beyond. We are deeply grateful for her lasting impact on the MCDD and the developmental disabilities community, and wish her a joyful and well-deserved retirement.