Living the Dream University's (LDU) Governance & Ethics Committee ensures the organization adheres to the highest standards of ethical conduct and governance practices. This committee provides 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. The Governance & Ethics Committee ensures everyone has the opportunity to pursue their dreams, develop essential life skills, and actively participate in their community, while upholding ethical standards.

The Committee's mission is to foster a culture of integrity, accountability, and transparency within LDU. They aim to equip LDU students with the tools to lead purposeful and independent lives through tailored educational programs, vocational training, and community involvement, all while maintaining the highest ethical standards.

The LDU Governance & Ethics Committee's leadership combines diverse expertise and a shared commitment to ethical decision-making and compliance, fostering growth in career readiness, social integration, self-advocacy, and daily living skills. The Committee members, the caring staff, and passionate volunteers strive to nurture each student’s potential, building a foundation for lifelong success, grounded in ethical behavior.

By upholding ethical principles and creating opportunities, Living the Dream University, guided by its Governance & Ethics Committee, is a beacon of hope and empowerment for special needs adults and their families. Join us in our mission to make dreams a reality, ethically and responsibly!

Our Governance & Ethics Committee

The Living the Dream University Governance & Ethics Committee 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, with a focus on ethical governance.

Most of our committee members currently serve or have served at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, bringing unparalleled expertise to the mission of Living the Dream University.  Together, our Governance & Ethics Committee 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, guided by ethical principles.