July 23, 2026 (Washington D.C.) – The team at the Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL) is saddened by the passing of a former colleague, Dana M. Fink. As noted in her obituary, “Dana devoted her career to advancing the rights and well-being of people with disabilities and older adults.”
During her time with IEL, Dana served IEL’s mission through her work supporting the Center for Workforce Development (CWD) and its federal Technical Assistance Centers and DC Advocacy Partners as an Assistant Project Coordinator.
She supported the National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth and DC Advocacy Partners, which empowered people with disabilities and their families to become advocates and teach them to navigate local administrative systems. Dana also led communications efforts around CWD, and contributed to our Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program and Right Turn Career-Focused Transition Initiative.
Before IEL, Dana worked at the American Association of People with Disabilities supporting programs around internships, mentoring, and higher education for people with disabilities. Previously, Dana worked for Paralyzed Veterans of America and was a former intern for Senator Tom Harkin’s Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
During her tenure at IEL, Dana served as Chair of the Program Advisory Committee for the National Collaborative for Workforce Development/Youth, often working with the Youth Transitions Collaborative and other aligned groups to support youth leadership, disability inclusion, and justice.
After her work with IEL, Dana went on to continue her work as a public servant with the Department of Health and Human Services (HSS) across several policymaking roles.
“Dana was the kind of colleague who left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her,” shared Ebony Watson, IEL Vice President, Youth Leadership and Transition Initiatives. “She brought an incredible wit, unwavering determination, and a genuine passion for ensuring that people with disabilities were treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. Her Southern charm, infectious laughter, and positive spirit made even the busiest days brighter, while her tenacity and commitment to the work inspired those around her to keep pushing forward. Dana was always willing to lend a hand, offer thoughtful guidance, or simply share a laugh when it was needed most. She was someone whose presence drew people in, and her legacy of advocacy, kindness, and dedication will continue to inspire all of us who had the privilege of knowing her.”
“Dana will be missed,” added IEL Interim President Kwesi Rollins. “I learned a lot from Dana about how to be a true ally and advocate for the disability community – lessons we continue to put into practice in our work at IEL. Gone too soon.”