The Arc of Essex County is proud to announce that Chief Executive Officer Linda C. Lucas has been selected to receive the Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award from The Arc of the United States.

Linda started her career with The Arc of Essex County in 1978 and has been CEO for more than 15 years. In that time, Linda has transformed the landscape of the organization with her significant acumen in housing development and improvements, progressive and innovative business strategies, endless care and commitment to the individuals served and their families, and stewardship of the agency’s hundreds of employees. Through Linda’s leadership, individuals with IDD and their families have always been met with compassion, support, guidance, resources, and quality services and supports.

According to The Arc of the United States, the Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an individual who lives by the core values of The Arc by providing leadership resulting in a significant improvement in supports, services, opportunities, and community inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. “Nominees will have demonstrated a high level of achievement in the IDD field as well as dedication to fulfilling the mission, core values, and position statements of The Arc throughout their career. These nominees have made significant contributions to people with IDD and their families in a variety of ways.”

Linda was nominated for this award by The Arc of New Jersey, and her nomination was supported by an array of testimonials from the people she has worked with through the years. The Awards Task Group was asked to consider leadership, achievements, measurable outcomes, impact on the IDD community, collaboration, creative thinking, and professional and personal development when selecting the awardee. Linda certainly exemplifies each of those attributes, and The Arc of Essex County is grateful to have her at the helm of our organization, and proud of this well-deserved honor.

The award will be presented at the NCE Awards Luncheon on Friday, November 1 as part of The Arc’s 2024 National Convention in Columbus, Ohio. Congratulations to Linda and to everyone who will be recognized at the event.