Rockland Independent Living Center Announces New Executive Director; Newburgh Resident Dr. David E. Jacobsen

Rockland Independent Living Center (RILC) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. David E. Jacobsen as the new Executive Director/CEO for the non-profit organization which provides advocacy and leadership in the development of an accessible and integrated community for people with disabilities throughout Rockland County. More than one hundred applicants were identified and, after an extensive screening process, Dr. Jacobsen was selected and will officially begin his tenure on Monday, February 29. Dr. Jacobsen replaces George Hoehmann who resigned to assume the elected position of Clarkstown Town Supervisor on January 1.

“I am honored to assume the stewardship of RILC. Under George Hoehmann’s leadership the organization dramatically increased the number of individuals it serves as well as the types of programs offered and the overall visibility in the community. My goal will be to work with the staff and board to build on the solid foundation established and continue the positive progress by listening to the people we serve and identifying how RILC can best meet their changing needs,” stated Dr. Jacobsen.

Introduced to the staff of Rockland Independent Living Center on February 12, Dr. Jacobsen outlined his vision and goals for building upon the successful leadership and advocacy that RILC experienced under George Hoehmann’s direction. He discussed enhancing the organization’s position as the premier agency in Rockland County advocating for people in need of support services by expanding current programs including PACER and Independent Living Services, and the more recent employment initiatives including Connections Contact Center, the Independence Café and the Workforce Development Training Center. He also intends to increase awareness and implementation of ADA compliance and identify and pursue new funding sources for the organization.

“I am grateful to have been a strong advocate on behalf of people with disabilities in Rockland County and believe that David will be an outstanding leader to take RILC into the next phase of its development. He is exceptionally qualified and his strength lies not only in his willingness to listen to the needs and concerns of those the organization serves, but also in his ability to seek alternative ways of accomplishing the goals of an organization, his resume speaks for itself,” stated George Hoehmann.

David E. Jacobsen, who earned his M.A. and his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Wheaton College Graduate School, most recently served as Associate Executive Director for Lincoln Hall, an organization with a rich 150-year history of helping children in need throughout New York State. He also previously served as the President and CEO of McQuade Children’s Services and The Children’s Home of Cromwell, and Director of Clinical Services for Lydia Home Association, a Chicago-based multi-service agency for children and families and was an Adjunct Professor for the Caribbean Graduate School of Theology, Middlesex Community College, and Trinity International University. Dr. Jacobsen, a father of six, resides in Newburgh with his family.

“We are confident that Dr. Jacobsen will not only be an exceptional leader, but a true friend and advocate to those who receive services. David is an inherently caring person with a strong career record of accomplishment and demonstrated executive leadership. These attributes coupled with a willingness to learn the ever changing needs of the local community bodes well for the future of RILC and the persons whom we serve--we are delighted to have him as our new CEO,” stated David Goldwasser, President of the Board of Directors of Rockland Independent Living Center.

The mission of Rockland Independent Living Center is to provide advocacy and leadership in the creation and development of an accessible and integrated community for people with disabilities, so that they may pursue lifestyles of their choice. For more information about the services provided by RILC visit www.rilc.org or call 845-624-1366.

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Photo Credits: Risa B. Hoag, GMG Public Relations