BOSTON – Today, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced the appointment of Michelle Dunn and Jonathan LeJeune to the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH) Statewide Advisory Council. Both bring diverse backgrounds and a wealth of experience to the Advisory Council, which is responsible for representing the various concerns of Deaf and Hard of Hearing residents and facilitating communication between MCDHH and the statewide community. Michelle and Jonathan will play key roles in the council’s mission to promote accessibility and advocate for the needs of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing community across the state. “We are thrilled to welcome Michelle Dunn and Jonathan LeJeune to the Statewide Advisory Council,” said Dr. Opeoluwa Sotonwa, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. “Their diverse backgrounds, experiences, and unwavering dedication to our community will undoubtedly enrich our efforts in advocating for accessibility and inclusion.” Quote from Michelle: “I am looking forward to collaborating with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and contributing my expertise to benefit MCDHH and the community. I am eager to hear from you, the members of MCDHH community, to bring your concerns to the attention of the MCDHH.” Quote from Jonathan: “Diversity in communication is not just about accommodating differences but embracing them. Inclusive communication ensures that every voice, including those of the DeafBlind community, is heard and valued.” Michelle Dunn is a licensed clinical social worker whose journey in the field began with her upbringing in the Greater Boston area. A proud graduate of the Horace Mann School for the Deaf and the EDCO program in Newton, MA, Michelle continued her education at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf at the Rochester Institute of Technology. She earned her associate degree in Business before pursuing her B.S. in Human Services from Springfield College, followed by a Master of Social Work from Salem State University. Throughout her career, Michelle has demonstrated a deep commitment to serving the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. As the Clinical Coordinator at North Suffolk Community Services and a mental health therapist in private practice, she has provided vital support to individuals facing various challenges. Michelle’s extensive experience spans clinical and administrative roles in outpatient, residential, and community-based settings, making her a valuable addition to the Advisory Council. Jonathan LeJeune hails from Louisiana and was born into an entirely DeafBlind family, a unique background that has shaped his perspective and advocacy efforts. A graduate of the Rochester Institute of Technology with a bachelor’s degree in social work, Jonathan has been a steadfast advocate for the rights and accessibility of the DeafBlind community. He currently serves as the Director of DeafBlind Community Access Network (DBCAN) in Boston and is an instructor at Northeastern University, where he teaches Dynamics of the DeafBlind Community. In addition to his professional roles, Jonathan is deeply engaged in community empowerment, facilitating workshops and training sessions regionally and nationally to raise awareness about the unique needs and capabilities of DeafBlind individuals. ### Follow us on social media! Scan the QR code below or visit linktree.com/MassCDHH