ElevateDD Announces 2026-2027 Voices Fellowship Cohort
Columbus, Ohio — ElevateDD is proud to announce the 2026-2027 Voices Fellowship cohort, a statewide group of self-advocates with developmental disabilities who are committed to strengthening their advocacy skills and using their lived experiences to create more inclusive communities across Ohio.
The ElevateDD Voices Fellowship supports self-advocates to grow as leaders while building the knowledge and confidence to influence meaningful change. Throughout the program, Fellows will receive training and mentorship as they learn to effectively engage with policymakers and community leaders on issues that impact people with developmental disabilities.
The 2026 Voices Fellows are:
Mary Alleger, Reynoldsburg
Turquoise A. Connelly, Sunbury
Christopher Clayton, Columbus
Caden Cox, Reynoldsburg
Michael Ginn, Cincinnati
Amy Hayden, Cincinnati
Alex Kearns, Delaware
Samantha L. Perry, Columbus
Tamara Perry, Columbus
Taylor Richardson, Columbus
“The Voices Fellowship reflects what ElevateDD believes deeply: people with developmental disabilities should be leading conversations about the policies, systems, and communities that affect their lives,” said Troy Hunter, President and CEO of ElevateDD. “This cohort brings together self-advocates from across Ohio who are ready to grow their leadership, share their lived experiences, and help move our state toward more authentic inclusion.”
During the fellowship, participants will deepen their understanding of disability policy and advocacy while gaining experience in storytelling and community engagement. Fellows will also connect with community leaders to build relationships, exchange ideas, and strengthen Ohio's network of self-advocate leaders.
The Voices Fellowship reflects ElevateDD's commitment to ensuring people with developmental disabilities have opportunities to shape the policies that affect their lives. By supporting self-advocates in their leadership journeys, ElevateDD is encouraging a future where people with developmental disabilities are recognized as decision-makers and changemakers.
To learn more about the ElevateDD Voices Fellowship, visit www.elevatedd.org.
About ElevateDD
ElevateDD is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing authentic inclusion and expanding opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. Through advocacy, education, and innovative programs, ElevateDD works to ensure every person has the opportunity to learn, work, and thrive in their community