Ashley Steele to Lead United Disability Services
The nonprofit organization will welcome Ashley Steele as its new president and CEO on Nov. 2, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Does a change in nonprofit leadership change your trust in the services provided in your community?
United Disability Services has appointed Ashley Steele to serve as its incoming president and CEO. She is set to officially assume the leadership role in Akron on Nov. 2, 2026.
Why it matters
The leadership change marks a strategic pivot for the organization as it prepares for a transition in oversight. Steele will work closely with outgoing president Brian Thomas to ensure continuity of operations for the Akron community.
Ashley Steele brings 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience to the role, including a 13-year tenure as executive director at Urban Mission Ministries.
The players
Ashley Steele
She is the incoming president and CEO who previously served as chief of staff at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.
Brian Thomas
He is the retiring president and CEO of United Disability Services who will assist with the leadership transition.
United Disability Services
This Akron-based organization provides support and advocacy services for individuals with disabilities.
The details
Steele transitions to the organization from her current post as chief of staff in the Office of the President at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. She holds a Master of Public Administration from American University and a Master of Divinity from Wesley Theological Seminary.
Timeline
Ashley Steele assumes the role of president and CEO on Nov. 2, 2026.
Market Landscape
The appointment of Steele to United Disability Services marks a departure from her previous administrative work at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Office of the President. This shift reflects a broader trend of nonprofit organizations seeking leaders with diverse educational backgrounds in public administration.
Clients and stakeholders of United Disability Services will see a leadership transition as Steele begins working alongside Brian Thomas. This change ensures that the organization maintains its standard of service while integrating new administrative strategies.
The takeaway
Nonprofit organizations often undergo leadership changes to align administrative expertise with current service requirements. Stakeholders should monitor the organization’s upcoming initiatives for potential shifts in service delivery models.
What happens next
Ashley Steele is scheduled to begin her new tenure as president and CEO of the organization on Nov. 2, 2026.
Further reading
For more background on regional leadership, see People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Akron Beacon Journal.
Live Poll
Does a change in nonprofit leadership change your trust in the services provided in your community?
