Disability Rights Vermont names new Executive Director, Lindsey Owen

In April 2021, Disability Rights Vermont (DRVT) announced the leadership transition from its talented and long-serving executive director, Ed Paquin, to the equally talented and dedicated supervising attorney, A.J. Ruben.  Unfortunately, after an extended medical leave, attorney Ruben decided to transition into the private sector and leave his position at DRVT.  Under the leadership of both Ed Paquin and attorney Ruben DRVT has been a force in the disability rights movement and created real change in the lives of many people living with a disability.  Despite the departure of such exceptional advocates for the disability community, we are fortunate that DRVT has found just the right leaders to continue that momentum.

Today we are happy to announce that the Board has officially named attorney Lindsey Owen as DRVT’s new Executive Director and that attorney Zachary Hozid will be DRVT’s Supervising Attorney.  

Attorney Owen graduated cum laude from Vermont Law School in May of 2013 and has been employed by Disability Rights Vermont even before graduation, assisting Vermonters with disabilities on an advocacy level. Since she obtained her Vermont law license in November 2013, she has been a staff attorney for Disability Rights Vermont, representing individuals in disputes before the Vermont Human Rights Commission, and most recently focusing her work on representing victims with disabilities through the criminal prosecution of their offenders to ensure their victims’ rights are recognized and enforced. 

“I am honored to be the new Executive Director. Ed Paquin really set the course for this organization and I am eager to continue DRVT along its path to creating real systemic change throughout the State of Vermont so that it is more inclusive and accessible for all.” 

Attorney Hozid graduated magna cum laude from Vermont Law School in May 2017 and has been practicing law at Disability Rights Vermont since December 2017. Zachary has been serving disenfranchised communities in various roles in both Vermont and Alaska for over a decade. In his advocacy at DRVT, he has litigated cases in state and federal courts, brought cases in the Human Rights Commission, testified in the legislature, and conducted outreach and monitoring in the community. 

“It is an honor to work with such a passionate and skilled team. I look forward to working with these great advocates at DRVT to further our advocacy for people with disabilities.”

Full of new energy and exciting ideas Disability Rights Vermont will continue its mission by investigating and addressing abuse, neglect and rights violations and staunchly defending and advancing the rights of people living with a disability. For more information about Disability Rights Vermont visit our website www.disabilityrightsvt.org