MEET THE NEW BOARD MEMBERS!

Two new members were elected to the Protection and Advocacy Board of Directors at a quarterly meeting in Las Cruces on April 27. Joining the Board for three year terms are Monica Kirby and Michael Rourke, both of Las Cruces.

Monica Kirby has always had an interest in helping people with special needs. She earned a BA in Social Science and her MA in Social Work, and has over 25 years of experience as a social worker and supervisor of social work students, in psychiatric, medical and child care settings. Having resided in Maryland, Newfoundland, Minnesota and Wisconsin before coming to New Mexico, Ms. Kirby has advocated for the rights of persons with disabilities in a wide variety of government systems. She has been a long-time advocate for persons with disabilities, including her own daughter, Laura who is now living independently in New Mexico. She is also an active community volunteer.

Ms. Kirby is currently with the New Mexico State University Library, where she provides specialized library services. She also serves on the NMSU Disability Advisory Board. "I am pleased to be able to continue working with and on behalf of persons with special needs in New Mexico," Ms. Kirby commented upon her election to the Board.

Michael Rourke, a Licensed Independent Social Worker, has been serving the community for over 16 years, focusing on mental health issues with adults, children and families. Currently he provides Behavior Therapy services to adults with developmental disabilities and outpatient mental health services to adults, adolescents and families. He also conducts emergency room evaluations for mental health related issues.

Mr. Rourke received a BA in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Masters in Social Work from New Mexico State University in 1992. Regarding his election to P&A's Board of Directors, Mr. Rourke states that he "sought membership on the P&A Board as a way to fulfill professional Social Work values and ethics and to learn about the needs of persons who are receiving services in New Mexico."

We warmly welcome Ms. Kirby and Mr. Rourke to the Board of Directors. A vacancy on the Board was created when JoEllen Howarth recently resigned, and a new position on the board was created as well. We all thank Ms. Howarth for her commitment to the rights of persons with disabilities and her service on the Board.