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INCLUDEnyc Announces Cheryelle Cruickshank Appointed as Executive Director Effective November 14, 2022

Published
November 14, 2022
Type
In the Media, Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 14, 2022

Contact:
Jenn Novak
212-677-4650 ext. 36
jnovak@includenyc.org

(New York, NY)—The Board of Directors at INCLUDEnyc, a nonprofit organization that provides support for youth with disabilities and their families in New York City, has appointed Cheryelle Cruickshank as Executive Director, effective November 14, 2022.

“Cheryelle is a seasoned leader with a passion for supporting people with disabilities,” said Owen King, Board Chair at INCLUDEnyc. “With more than 35 years of experience and a master’s degree in nonprofit management and leadership, Cheryelle has dedicated her career to supporting people with disabilities and their families to achieve their life goals.” 

Most recently, Ms. Cruickshank was the Acting Executive Director of The Community Resource Center for the Developmentally Disabled, Inc., a nonprofit organization that operates residential facilities and provides comprehensive care for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Prior to this, Ms. Cruickshank was the CEO of Human First, a multicultural nonprofit that serves developmentally disabled communities in New York City and Long Island. She was also Associate Executive Director at Unique People Services Inc., a multifaceted human service organization specializing in providing housing and support services to people with disabilities. 

“My lifelong passion has been to support and advocate for people with disabilities,” said Ms. Cruickshank. “I was immediately drawn to INCLUDEnyc’s mission and the impact the organization has made on the lives of young people with disabilities and their families. I am so excited to join INCLUDEnyc as we continue to educate the community on access and equity while we deepen our resource delivery and footprint across New York City.”

INCLUDEnyc’s Transition Committee, co-chaired by Board members Alberto Estrella and Andrea Raphael, guided the search. Board members Richard Hofstetter, Owen King, and Ellen Miller-Wachtel also shared their expertise on the Transition Committee. 

Interim Executive Director Diana Breen, a career interim executive leader, will overlap with Ms. Cruickshank through November 25, 2022, to ensure a seamless transition for INCLUDEnyc. “We extend our appreciation to Diana,” said Mr. King. “Her steadfast leadership has well positioned INCLUDEnyc to shine in our next chapter.”

“It’s truly been an honor to contribute to INCLUDEnyc’s mission,“ said Ms. Breen. “In Cheryelle’s capable hands and with the demonstrated dedication of the Board and staff team, INCLUDEnyc’s future is bright.”