Meet Our Board of Directors
Living the Dream University's (LDU) Board of Directors provides strategic oversight and guidance to this visionary nonprofit organization founded by Blake Newsom in March of 2025. They are dedicated to empowering adults with special needs to live fulfilling, independent lives. At LDU, the Board ensures everyone has the opportunity to pursue their dreams, develop essential life skills, and actively participate in their community.
The Board's mission is to create a supportive, inclusive environment where individuals with special needs can thrive academically, socially, and personally. They aim to equip LDU students with the tools to lead purposeful and independent lives through tailored educational programs, vocational training, and community involvement.
The LDU Board's leadership combines diverse expertise and a shared commitment to hands-on experiences, fostering growth in career readiness, social integration, self-advocacy, and daily living skills. The Board members, the caring staff, and passionate volunteers strive to nurture each student’s potential, building a foundation for lifelong success.
By breaking down barriers and creating opportunities, Living the Dream University, guided by its Board of Directors, is a beacon of hope and empowerment for special needs adults and their families. Join us in our mission to make dreams a reality!
Our Board of Directors
The Living the Dream University Board of Directors brings together an extraordinary group of professionals, scholars, and advocates who share a united passion for building a brighter future for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Our board is made up of:
Worldwide authors whose work has inspired and educated diverse audiences.
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Ph.D. candidates and doctoral scholars contributing cutting-edge research in psychology, education, and the social sciences.
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Future social workers and medical doctors (MDs) are committed to serving vulnerable populations with compassion and expertise.
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Board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) leading applied behavior analysis and evidence-based support.
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Peer recovery specialists who bring lived experience and advocacy to guide holistic approaches to care.
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Course designers and adjunct faculty with decades of instructional experience, curriculum development expertise, and student-centered teaching methods.
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Most of our board members currently serve or have served at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, bringing unparalleled expertise to the mission of Living the Dream University. Others bring valuable academic and professional experience from institutions such as Columbia State Community College and Al-Quds University (Jerusalem), contributing to a strong foundation in community-focused education and workforce development. Together, our Board of Directors provides strategic guidance, academic insight, and community leadership to help Living the Dream University become a transformative force in higher education for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
TBA
Director of
Photography Education & Curriculum Innovation
TBA
Director of
Business Education & Curriculum Innovation
TBA
Director of
History Education & Curriculum Innovation
TBA
Director of
Communications Education & Curriculum Innovation
TBA
Director of
Sociology Education & Curriculum Innovation
TBA
Director of
Compliance & Accreditation
Open Board of Directors Positions
Living the Dream University is currently seeking qualified and mission-aligned individuals to serve in the following Board of Directors roles. All positions are volunteer appointments with an estimated commitment of 20–40 hours per year and play an essential role in curriculum development, governance, and institutional readiness.
Director of Mathematics Education and Curriculum Innovation
Estimated volunteer commitment: 20–40 hours per year
Oversees the development, review, and continuous improvement of mathematics courses. Ensures curriculum is accessible, academically sound, and aligned with the mission and academic standards of Living the Dream University.
Director of Science Education and Curriculum Innovation
Estimated volunteer commitment: 20–40 hours per year
Oversees the development and evaluation of science courses. Works collaboratively with leadership to ensure content is evidence-based, inclusive, and aligned with institutional learning outcomes.
Director of History Education and Curriculum Innovation
Estimated volunteer commitment: 20–40 hours per year
Oversees the creation and refinement of history courses that are inclusive, culturally responsive, and accessible. Ensures alignment with institutional goals and student learning needs.
Director of Sociology Education and Curriculum Innovation
Estimated volunteer commitment: 20–40 hours per year
Guides the development of sociology courses focused on social systems, community engagement, and inclusive perspectives using trauma-informed and person-centered approaches.
Director of Business Education and Curriculum Innovation
Estimated volunteer commitment: 20–40 hours per year
Oversees the development of business and entrepreneurship courses with an emphasis on practical skills, ethical leadership, and accessibility.
Director of Communications Education and Curriculum Innovation
Estimated volunteer commitment: 20–40 hours per year
Leads the development of communications courses, including written, digital, and interpersonal communication, supporting self-advocacy and professional readiness.
Director of Photography Education and Curriculum Innovation
Estimated volunteer commitment: 20–40 hours per year
Oversees the development of photography courses, integrating technical skills, creative expression, and accessible learning practices.
Director of Compliance and Accreditation
Estimated volunteer commitment: 20–40 hours per year
Supports institutional compliance and accreditation preparation through policy review, documentation oversight, and alignment with state and regulatory requirements.
Director of Health, Wellness, and accessibility
Estimated volunteer commitment: 20–40 hours per year
Provides guidance related to student health, wellness, and accessibility. Advises on inclusive supports, accommodations, trauma-informed practices, and wellness-centered policies across all programs.
Board Service Expectations
All Board members are expected to attend scheduled Board of Directors meetings, respond to emergency communications within 24 hours, participate in emergency votes within 72 hours, execute a Non-Disclosure Agreement to protect confidential and sensitive university information, collaborate professionally with leadership and fellow Board members, and uphold the mission, fiduciary responsibilities, and ethical standards of Living the Dream University.
Shared Education and Curriculum Innovation Responsibility
The Education and Curriculum Innovation Board oversees the development, review, and continuous improvement of courses within its respective subject areas to ensure accessibility, academic quality, and alignment with the mission and regulatory expectations of Living the Dream University.
For inquiries regarding Board service, please contact
BlakeN@LivingtheDreamUniversity.org
Contact Us Today
We are here to answer any questions you may have. Reach out to us to learn more about our programs and how we can help you or your loved one achieve their dreams.