NYS Independent Living Council, Inc.

Brad Williams earned a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from SUNY Albany in 1984 and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Russell Sage College in 1990. Mr. Williams served as the Executive Director of the Glens Falls Independent Living Center from 1990 to 1999. While at the center, he established the Center for Assistive Computer Technology, developed an ADA Marketing Strategy which won a national award from the University of Kansas, helped to establish a Saratoga County satellite office, and successfully completed a capital campaign to occupy a $ 1.5 million dollar multi-agency facility. During this time period, Mr. Williams was also the Chairman of the New York State Coalition On Independent Living (COIL) and Secretary of the New York State Commissioner's Advisory Panel for Special Education Services.

Brad Williams is currently the Executive Director of the New York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC). The council provides technical assistance and training to centers, looks to increase public awareness about independent living, and pursues a public policy agenda that results in systemic change for people with disabilities. Mr. Williams serves on the Governing Board of the National Council on Independent Living, Co-Chair of the New York State Interagency Partnership on Assistive Technology, and is a member of the New York State Office of Advocate for Persons with Disabilities (OAPWD) Advisory Board.

Mr. Williams resides in Queensbury, New York with his wife Cathy, son Ryan, and daughter Hannah.

Joe Adler, joea@nysilc.org

Joseph Adler

Joe joined the NYSILC staff in June 2005, following a diversified career as a college instructor in history, rehabilitation counselor and coordinator of services, and a small business owner/proprietor. He earned graduate degrees both in history and counseling. In addition to overseeing the day-day operations of the NYSILC office, Joe assists Brad in public policy issues. He serves on the Bylaws Committee, the Needs Assessment Committee and the Task Force Focus Group for Statewide Youth Leadership.

With a personal and professional background in mental health, Joe is keenly interested in reform legislation such as Timothy's Law. Joe and his wife Miriam, a social work administrator and practitioner, have two married sons. Joe's outside interests include antiquarian books, storytelling, current events, and baseball history. He is a longtime Yankee fan and a softball enthusiast.

Patricia Black, patty@nysilc.org

Patricia Black

Patty, who joined the NYSILC staff in March 2006 as administrative assistant has a background in both human services and secretarial work. She has an AAS in Human Services from Hudson Valley Community College, graduating in 2003 after working full time as a Keyboard Specialist at the New York State Education Department and attending class in the evenings. She hopes to obtain a Bachelor's in Human Services/Psychology at Empire State College, while again working days and attending college in the evenings. Patty assisted developmentally disabled adults in recreational activities, while completing her internships at HVCC. She was able to work closely with a recreation therapist in this field and found this type of work very interesting, fun, challenging and rewarding.

The great love and interest of her life is her 2 year old daughter Jessica Faith. Patty describes her toddler as very beautiful, sweet, endearing, smart and completely charming. "She is such a joy, especially since I had to overcome many obstacles and challenges in my own and life and was fortunate enough to have this child when I was a bit older (late 30's). Many people thought she would never happen for me, but she did and she is the apple of all of our eyes!"

Patty enjoys hanging out with her daughter for meals, shows, playground, fairs, etc. - any event her little heart desires! She also loves to read, watch good movies (comedies and dramas), go to crafts fairs and summer festivals, eat Indian food, eat pizza with her family, swim with Jessica, go to the ocean and just rest when she can find the time.

Richard Farruggio, rfarruggio@reg1-2nysilc.org

Richard Farruggio

Ritchie has a Bachelor of Science in Community and Human Services, His special area of study was in Human Services Advocacy and Awareness. He has worked in the independent living movement for sixteen years,. specializing in Peer Counseling, Benefits Counseling, Advocacy, Technology and all types of Media. Ritchie, who telecommutes from his home in Ithaca, has also served as city coordinator for a mentoring and employment project. He has also been involved in several community groups, including an ADA advisory group to the mayor, and projects related to ADA transportation. For the past two years, Ritchie has been the regional coordinator for regions 1-2 of the IL Net project. (Click the IL Net bar for a description of this project.)