FROM GOODBYES TO NEW BEGINNINGS

“Change is the law of life and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.”

– John F. Kennedy

A LETTER FROM LORI FELDKAMP

Since I announced my retirement in February, I have had the opportunity to reflect on an unexpected career that has shaped both my professional and personal life over the past 30

years. I came to Big Lakes with no ambition to be the CEO. I was just happy to find an exciting place where I could utilize my business acumen. Little did I know that I would find a second family and soul fulfillment in service to others.

If asked what I value the most about my time at Big Lakes, number one would be relationships. Relationships with the people we serve and their families, the employees who serve them, and friendships with donors, colleagues, community members, and the larger disability community in Kansas and around the country. I will miss you all and our shared mission to make services and supports for individuals with IDD the best. I will miss the clients I so admire for their resilience. I will miss the trust and support of our families. I will also miss the incredible creativity, commitment, and care of our employees, who are driven to make each day better for the people they serve.

While it is hard to leave, I am confident in the future of Big Lakes as I hand over the reins to the capable hands of Liz Holle. She is passionate about Big Lakes’ mission. Her experience of starting as a direct support professional at Big Lakes 18 years ago, followed by moving up through the ranks, has given her a solid foundation for success. She has the drive and intelligence to navigate through the many challenges she and Big Lakes will face.

In addition to my departure at the end of May, Emma Clements, Development and Marketing Specialist, is leaving to be a full-time mom. Carmen Ng was hired and is training with Emma to take over her duties. Please join me in welcoming Liz and Carmen, Liz to her new role as CEO as of June 1st and Carmen to the Big Lakes family! Liz will be announcing promotions and other organizational changes in the coming months. Changes will come because that is the law of life, but I couldn’t be more excited about Big Lakes’ future. Stay tuned and don’t miss out!