Pioneer Center for Human Services enters an exciting era of change as Patrick R. Maynard, PhD, takes hold of the reins as the organization's new President/CEO.

In September 2011 Lorraine Kopczynski, the organization's current President/CEO, announced her intent to retire after 25 years of service. What ensued was a rapid, high profile search for the next leader of the county's largest social service agency.

Under Kopczynski's leadership the organization had undergone a metamorphosis, transitioning from a single-focus agency to a multi-faceted human services agency caring for the developmentally disabled, mentally ill, sexually assaulted, homeless and troubled youth and families. "Her leadership and strong conviction has been instrumental in positioning Pioneer for many significant achievements over the years. Her passion and dedication for the organization, community, and especially the clients, has motivated and driven us all," said Mike Moushey, Chairman of Pioneer Center's Board of Directors.

Dr. Maynard, a current resident of Cincinnati, Ohio, will begin his transition to the McHenry County area over the next few months. He will partner with Kopczynski during her last month at Pioneer Center to ensure a smooth and successful transition. Dr. Maynard brings with him over 30 years of experience in developmental disabilities and non-profit leadership. Most recently he was the President and CEO of Resident Home Corporation in Cincinnati. There he led the creation of new programs, services and funding that grew the organization from 100 staff to over 275 staff and saw budget growth from $3.2 million to over $15 million. He is also the founder and President/CEO of Ascent Management Group where he has worked with several of the largest national health charities (United Cerebral Palsy of America, The National Alzheimer's Association, and The National Multiple Sclerosis Society) to create organization efficiencies and processes for better effectiveness.

Dr. Maynard has a BS in Psychology from The Ohio State University and an MA from Pepperdine University for Community and Clinical Psychology. He secured his PhD in Applied Behavioral Sciences and Leadership from Ohio University and has a Post-Doctoral Degree from Harvard University in Public Policy and Governance. In addition, he served appointments from two governors to the board of The Ohio Governor's Council on People with Disabilities as well as two appointments to the State of Washington Developmental Disabilities Council. He is a founding member of the Ohio Disability Housing Network and founded the greater-Cincinnati's first competitive athletic event for people of all abilities (The Hope and Possibility 5K).

Dr. Maynard brings with him a passion to support the clients, organization and development of Pioneer Center's staff. He brings a balanced business approach to his human services experiences and is very engaged and involved in multiple community and legislative arenas.

"The Board of Directors has worked very diligently over the last 90 days to secure Dr. Maynard's appointment to the President/CEO position," Moushey said, "and I feel the board is very confident that those efforts have resulted in a continued strong leadership position to assure Pioneer Center's future success in serving our clients and the community."