Opportunity Enterprises is proud to announce that two of its leadership team have been selected for the INARF Leadership Academy – Class of 2026. Melinda Mote, Quality Assurance Director, and Cassandra Dunn, Safety & Facilities Director, are among only 30 professionals across Indiana chosen to participate in the prestigious for the competitive leadership development program.
INARF Leadership Academy was created in response to members’ desire to invest in staff and cultivate future leaders within Indiana’s intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) service system. Since its launch with the Class of 2019, the Academy has become a highly anticipated professional development opportunity for human services leaders dedicated to strengthening the future of the industry.
With the selection of Mote and Dunn, Opportunity Enterprises now has six team members who have been chosen to participate in the INARF Leadership Academy, underscoring the organization’s ongoing commitment to developing strong, forward-thinking leaders within the field.
“Melinda and Cassandra are both exceptional leaders who bring expertise and heart to their work every day,” said Neil Samahon, President and CEO of Opportunity Enterprises. “Their selection to the INARF Leadership Academy speaks to their talent and commitment to the people we serve. I am incredibly proud of them and proud of our entire OE team for continuing to grow as leaders in our industry.”
Participants are selected through a competitive application process based on the quality and depth of their essay responses, as well as demonstrated industry experience. The INARF Leadership Academy Class of 2026 officially kicked off March 12 at the Embassy Suites Noblesville Conference Center.
INARF is Indiana’s principal membership organization representing providers of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). For more than 50 years, INARF has maintained positive working relationships with governmental agencies overseeing human service programs, promoted networking and professional development opportunities for members, and provided leadership in advancing high-quality programs for people with I/DD. INARF remains committed to strengthening the system of services and for Hoosiers with disabilities. For more information, visit www.inarf.org.
For nearly 60 years, Opportunity Enterprises has worked to create inclusive and equitable opportunities for people of all abilities. OE is in the business of amazing people, with approximately 400 staff, nearly 1,400 people each year. For more information, visit oppent.org.
( l to r) Cassandra Dunn & Melinda Mote