For Immediate Release
September 26, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario

The Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario (LDAO) is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Steven Reid as its new President and CEO, effective October 9, 2024. Dr. Reid, an experienced leader with a long history of advocacy and support for students with learning disabilities, will be leading LDAO into its next phase of growth and innovation.

Cory Garlough, Director and Chair of the CEO Search Committee, shared, “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Steven Reid as LDAO’s new President and CEO. His deep appreciation for the organization’s history, coupled with his passion for its future and extensive leadership experience, made him the unanimous choice of the Board to advance our strategic plan.”

Director Garlough also commented on the organization’s strong history of leadership, “LDAO is deeply grateful for the years past President and CEO, Lawrence Barns, gave to our organization and communities. His legacy as a champion for our communities is well-known, and finding a successor to honor that legacy was of utmost importance. Dr. Reid will draw on his extensive provincial and district-level experience, to guide LDAO as our new President and CEO.”

Quote from Dr. Steven Reid:

“I am deeply honored to take on the role of President and CEO of LDAO. As someone who has spent my career advocating for inclusive education, this opportunity is very close to my heart. I look forward to working alongside our incredible and dedicated teams, Chapters, board members, and community partners to continue empowering individuals with learning disabilities (LDs) and ensuring that every person has the tools and support they need to thrive. I am excited to advance LDAO’s strategic plan, focusing on its key pillars of Advocacy, Knowledge Mobilization, and Outreach. Together, we will build on the strong history of LDAO and continue unlocking the potential in all individuals with LDs as we embrace the possibilities of what LDAO can achieve in the years to come.”

About Dr. Steven Reid

Dr. Steven Reid brings more than three decades of leadership experience in the educational sector. His career began as an educational assistant and teacher with the Toronto District School Board, where he later served as Vice-Principal, Principal, and Central Coordinating Principal. Dr. Reid’s contributions to education extend to his work with the Ontario Ministry of Education and his leadership roles at Bluewater District School Board and York Region District School Board (YRDSB), where he most recently held the position of Associate Director of Schools and Programs, YRDSB.

In addition to his work in the public education system, Dr. Reid has held senior roles with the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO), including Chief Assessment Officer and with the ministry as Director of Field Services. He is also a dedicated instructor and researcher, teaching in the Department of Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning at the University of Toronto and regularly contributing to educational research and publications.

Dr. Reid’s work has earned him several accolades, including the prestigious 2022 President’s Award from the Council for Exceptional Children Ontario for his dedication to championing the potential of students with exceptionalities.

As he assumes the role of President and CEO of LDAO, Dr. Reid is committed to building on LDAO’s legacy of advocacy, support, and empowerment for individuals with LDs and ADHD.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Dr. Steven Reid
President and CEO–Designate
Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario
(416) 929-4311
info@ldao.ca

About LDAO

The Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario (LDAO) is a charitable organization that provides leadership in learning disabilities advocacy, research, education, and services. LDAO’s mission is to help people with learning disabilities achieve their full potential by promoting innovative programs, resources, and advocacy across Ontario.