Deirdre came to JRI in 1991 to manage the start up of a community group home for women transitioning from institutional settings. She's grown along with JRI Developing Abilities, serving in roles of increasing scope and responsibility, and in 2013 was promoted to Vice President. The Division now includes a range of residential services, employment supports, day habilitation programs for adults with developmental needs and elders. Deirdre also serves on the training committee for the Association for Developmental Disabilities Providers. Prior to JRI, Deirdre's career was in organizations that work to prevent and respond to domestic violence and sexual assault. She is a licensed clinical social worker and a graduate of the University of Connecticut's School of Social Work and the College of the Holy Cross.