Everyone working at The Arc is dedicated to helping people who experience disabilities be valued, included and respected members of the communities in which they live. Meet our executive team:
Pamela S. Ring, Executive Director
Pamela Ring has 40 years of experience in the field of developmental disabilities. As the executive director of The Arc Lane County. Pam oversees the strategic programming, management and financial operations of a dynamic nonprofit dedicated to advancing quality services that enrich lives and build future supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. During her tenure at The Arc, she developed a model respite care program and created residential services for adults and children leaving the Fairview Training Center, Oregon’s former state-run institution for people with developmental disabilities. She also started a variety of other programs focused on enriching the lives and creating community inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities. Pam is the mother of an adult son with an intellectual and develo
Erissa Lewis, Director of Human Resources & Finance
Erissa Lewis, director of finance, has a rich history with The Arc Lane County in a variety of roles, including office management, human resources and financial management. She is passionate about her work for The Arc, and she enjoys helping clients break down social barriers and become fully integrated in their communities. She is proud of the staff that she works alongside because of their dedication to serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Devin Duerst, Director of Employment Programs
Devin Duerst, director of employment services, has been with The Arc for three years. Having worked in the disability services field for many years, Devin feels this profession chose him instead of the other way around. He started his journey in the disability community as a teacher’s aide in 1990. Since then, he has worked as an in-home care provider, program manager, and now, as a director. He also worked as a substitute special education teacher in Multnomah county.
Laura Dahill, Director of Marketing & Communications
Laura Dahill, director of marketing and communications, has more than 25 years of experience in marketing and communications. She has been with The Arc Lane County for five years. Laura is the proud parent of twin boys, one of whom experiences a disability, and she enjoys helping parents on their journey of raising children with special needs. In her current position, Laura advocates for policy and systems change to improve the lives of people who experience disabilities, and she strives to make sure the broader community is aware of all the great things The Arc, its employees and its participants are doing in Lane County. Laura earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism with a minor in marketing.
Board of Directors:
Scott Bonnell, President
Josh Barbour, Vice President
Laura Scruggs, Secretary/Treasurer
Matt Huston
Lorena Pelayo
Michael Dixon