Introducing Our New Council Communications Coordinator

We are delighted to announce that Dirk Strider has joined the Council staff. Dirk began his role as Communications Coordinator on June 3.

In his role, Dirk is bringing the dedicated, day-to-day communications support we’ve been missing since some organizational changes last fall. Dirk will also provide support to targeted public policy and leadership development projects. That will include supporting Director of Leadership Development Cathlyn Smith in launching a new Partners in Policymaking class this fall.

Dirk comes to the Council after several years of communications consulting, graphic design work, web development, marketing, and social media management. One thing that stood out to us immediately was his ability to bring order to complex projects and track details across multiple work areas. But rather than tell you more, I’d like you to hear directly from Dirk. I think you’ll see why we’re so pleased to have him aboard.

- Jolene Sharp, Chief Strategy Officer

Hey there! I’m Dirk Strider, and I’m excited to introduce myself as the Communications Coordinator for the Council on Developmental Disabilities staff!

As someone who is autistic and has ADHD, this position and what the Council does is very near and dear to my heart. I’ve always had a deep passion for helping others navigate the often-confusing world of bureaucracy, paperwork, and terminology surrounding resources.

That’s especially true when it comes to marginalized people of all kinds, who often lack access to support and services.

What has struck me most about the Council is the genuine respect, value, and understanding they show towards individuals with developmental disabilities, including myself. During my interviews, I felt at ease not only disclosing that I had a disability, but also that I needed to keep my hands busy with a fidget toy without anyone questioning my need for them. It’s heartening to know that everyone here has a close personal connection with someone who has a developmental disability. It’s clear the Council fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment.

I’m a born-and-raised Tennessee native. Growing up, I moved all over Middle Tennessee. When I’m not immersed in work, you can catch me exploring Middle Tennessee and the neighboring areas, particularly when it comes to local musical acts. The End in Nashville is hands down one of my favorite spots to discover new and up-and-coming artists. Even though my sensory issues can sometimes make it tough to stay for the whole show, I feel so grateful to have had the chance to see and meet so many talented musicians over the years.

As an autistic person, my “special interest” lies in resources for marginalized people, health insurance, paperwork, and navigating bureaucratic cogs. While some might find these topics a bit dry, I can easily lose myself for hours in a document, captivated by every intricate detail.

(Even if my friends and family don’t quite grasp why I find paragraph A, subsection 3 on page 64 of a quarterly report to be so funny...) I look forward to working with the Council and Council staff – including making my contributions here in Breaking Ground!