“The Journey of a Thousand Miles begins with a Single Step”

I’m Bernadette LeRouge, parent of 3, grandparent of 7, great grandparent of 2. My third and youngest child has an intellectual/Developmental Disability (I/DD). I am currently retired and provide part time services to my adult daughter with I/DD. I am delighted to have the opportunity to fulfil the mission of this organization.

I have served in both local and state government for over 25 years in departments that are committed to promoting and protecting human rights, personal integrity, inclusion, and diversity for individuals with disabilities throughout their lifetime.

My services/advocacy began in the Public Defender Mental Health Unit, Developmental Disabilities Planning Council/ Brain Injury Coordination for the State of N.M, Department of Health Family Health Bureau, Developmental Disabilities Planning Council/ Policy Analyst, Visions Case Management/ Case Manager for disabled and Elderly Waiver, and Santa Fe Public Schools/ Special Education/ Parent-Educator Coordinator.

*Proxy for the Chief Public Defender on the Governors Mental Health Planning Council (1994)

*Graduate of New Mexico Partners in Policymaking (1995)

*President/board member of the Arc of New Mexico (1995/1997)

*Special Education Advisory Board (1996)

*Board member of the Arc of the United States (1999)

* Brain Injury Advisory Council (1999)

*Developmental Disabilities Planning Council (DDPC) ( 2003)

*Proxy for te Director of DDPC on Medicaid Advisory Committee (2003)

*Proxy for the Director of DDPC on Parent Reaching Out (2005)

*Board Member of Santa Fe Public Schools (2006)

*Special Education Parent Advisory Committee (2008)