Spotlight of the Week: Kevin L. Miller – Champion for Disability Rights and Inclusion
In this week’s Spotlight of the Week, we shine a light on Kevin L. Miller, the Director of the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) Agency. With over 25 years of dedicated service in state government, Miller has been at the forefront of leading meaningful change to support individuals with disabilities, empowering them to lead independent, fulfilling lives.
A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy
Under Director Miller’s leadership, OOD has undergone a remarkable transformation. When he assumed the role of Director, Miller wasted no time in addressing long-standing challenges. One of his early priorities was eliminating the waiting list for services—an issue that had affected thousands of Ohioans. By releasing more than 17,000 individuals who had been waiting for services, Miller ensured that those in need received timely assistance, marking a significant milestone in the agency’s history.
In addition to clearing the waiting list, Miller focused on achieving compliance with the U.S. Department of Education’s audit findings, further improving the agency’s efficiency and responsiveness. His commitment to creating a more accessible and inclusive environment is evident in the strides OOD has made in offering services that are both comprehensive and accessible to Ohioans with disabilities.
Rebranding for the Future
Under his guidance, OOD was rebranded and renamed from the Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC), signaling a fresh approach to serving the needs of individuals with disabilities. Miller’s forward-thinking leadership also led to the introduction of a standardized fee schedule for services, ensuring a fair and transparent process for individuals seeking assistance.
Furthermore, Director Miller has significantly boosted the agency’s engagement with businesses through initiatives like Disability:IN Ohio, which connects companies with talent from the disability community. His vision has resulted in stronger relationships and better partnerships, which have enabled OOD to serve a greater number of Ohioans with disabilities, many of whom are being served for the first time since 1991.
Personal Commitment to Advocacy
Director Miller’s passion for disability rights extends beyond his professional life. As a father of a son diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Miller is personally invested in advocating for the disability community. His commitment to the cause is reflected in his active involvement with national organizations like the National Autism Society and Autism Speaks, as well as his past leadership of the Mark J. Youngpeter Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Miller’s advocacy also extends to his work with the Association of Ohio Commodores, an organization dedicated to promoting Ohio’s economic development, and his role as a past President of the Mark J. Youngpeter Memorial Scholarship Fund. His personal and professional experiences have shaped his approach to leadership, ensuring that OOD remains a strong ally for individuals with disabilities.
A Strong Vision for the Future
As Ohio’s disability services landscape continues to evolve, Director Miller’s vision remains clear: to create an inclusive, supportive, and equitable environment where individuals with disabilities can thrive. Through his leadership, OOD is serving more Ohioans with disabilities than ever before, helping them find employment, access necessary services, and live more independent lives.
Director Kevin L. Miller’s tireless dedication to enhancing the lives of Ohioans with disabilities stands as a testament to the power of leadership rooted in compassion, experience, and advocacy. His story is one of perseverance and progress, and his impact will continue to be felt for years to come.
A Legacy of Service
With a Bachelor’s degree from Ohio Dominican University and a Master’s degree from The Ohio State University, Miller’s academic background, combined with his practical experience as a former member of the West Jefferson City Council, has prepared him well for the challenges and opportunities he faces in leading OOD. His career in state service, including high-level leadership roles such as COO and CEO in various state agencies, has allowed him to bring a wealth of experience and insight to his current role. As we honor Kevin L. Miller in this week’s spotlight, we celebrate his legacy of service, his unwavering commitment to disability advocacy, and the profound impact he has had on the lives of Ohioans with disabilities.
