Easterseals Names Ted Thompson as Senior Vice President of Government Relations

Easterseals announced today the new hire of Ted Thompson, JD, as Senior Vice President of Government Relations. With more than 30 years of experience in public policy, government affairs, and nonprofit leadership, Thompson will spearhead Easterseals’ advocacy efforts to advance disability rights, expand access to critical services, and influence policy at the federal and state levels.

Before joining Easterseals, Thompson served as Senior Vice President of Public Policy for The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, where he led legislative initiatives to improve healthcare access and research funding for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. He previously served as President and CEO of the Parkinson’s Action Network and held senior government relations roles at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. His career also includes nearly a decade working in Congress, where he served as Chief of Staff and Communications Director to Rep. Bill Luther (D-MN) and Deputy District Director for Rep. Gerry Sikorski (D-MN). 

Thompson said: "I am honored to join Easterseals and contribute to its longstanding mission of creating opportunities for people with disabilities, veterans, and caregivers. Advancing policies that allow people to live full, independent lives has been a central focus of my career, and I look forward to working alongside Easterseals’ dedicated team to drive meaningful change for the communities we serve nationwide."

"Ted brings a deep understanding of policy, coalition-building, and legislative strategy that will be invaluable as Easterseals continues its mission of providing essential services to people with disabilities, veterans, and caregivers," said Kendra Davenport, President and CEO of Easterseals. "His leadership will strengthen our advocacy efforts, ensuring that the voices of the disability community are heard and that policies reflect the needs of those we serve."