DSLC Board Members bring a wealth of commitment and experience to the organization.

Dr. Wayne C Downey, Board President 
Dr. Wayne C Downey is the acting Vice President for the DSLC Board as well as an instructor of psychology at the Santa Rosa Junior College. Dr. Downey is also an member of the board for adults and aging in addition to serving as a Commissioner for the city of Santa Rosa Housing Authority. Dr. Downey also owns a Supported Living Services agency contracted through North Bay regional center and the California Department of developmental services. Dr. Downey has received numerous awards for outstanding employment practices by Congress and is deeply committed to service and equity to those who reside within the city of Santa Rosa. He has published one book and has a service dog named Sean 2nd.

If you have any concerns pertaining to DSLC feel free to get in touch with the Board President by sending them an E-Mail to downey@sonic.net.

Adam Brown, Executive Director
Adam Brown has been a member of the DSLC community since March 1997. Adam has served and continues to serve consumers as an Attorney and now acts as the Executive Director of DSLC. Mr. Brown earned a Juris Doctor from the University of New Hampshire School of Law. Adam has also taught Administrative/Disability Law at Empire College since 2000.

Susan Daniel, Human Resources Consultant
Susan Daniel is a published author, human resource consultant and a member of the board of directors for DSLC as well as the Sonoma County Executives Association. Susan graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Santa Clara, school of law and has additionally earned a Master of Arts degree from Syracuse University. Susan has over 30 years worth of experience as a Human Resources executive and attorney. Susan  is also the proud founder and principal of Employee Relations Consultants, a company who specializes in developing and providing human resource consulting, and has additionally served as Vice President of Human Resources for various tech companies. She currently teaches Employment and Employment Discrimination Law at Empire Law School.

Shirley Johnson-Foell
Shirley Johnson-Foell M.A- Former member of Redwood Rollers – the first wheelchair basketball team of Sonoma County, now called Santa Rosa Blazers. Shirley left Hewlett-Packard/Agilent after 19 years as an electronic technician and project specialist. She went back to college and earned her degrees at Sonoma State University. Shirley stays busy as a substitute teacher, and is active in her community volunteering with non-profit organizations.

Jean Herigodt
Jean Heridogt has spent a considerate amount of time expanding her career as a trial attorney with the Cook County Public Defender’s office in Chicago. After expanding her career and retiring, Jean wished to be closer to her family and moved to California. Jean now spends most of her time giving back to her community and volunteers with several non-profit organizations in Sonoma County. Her service as well as her long-time interest in disability rights issues has brought her to DSLC. 

Richard Zimmer, Psychologist and Professor
Richard is Professor emeritus from Sonoma State University he has also earned the titles of Psychologist, Historian and Anthropologist. His passion for helping people of all ages, particularly those in the disabled community drove him to DSLC. Mr. Zimmer is dedicated to improving the lives of those around him and in his community.

Ben Karpilow
Ben Karpilow practices law as an attorney in Santa Rosa. He is an attorney representing plaintiffs in employment-related matters. Ben also sits on the board of ACVREP (Academy for Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals), where he chairs the disciplinary review committee.

Albert J. Kastl, Ph. D., Psychologist