Council members play an important role in WASILC's work to plan, implement and monitor the State Plan and its activities.
Kimberly has more than 25 years of experience working in social services, has extensive knowledge in education/training, job development and Independent Living services for persons with disabilities.
Dion is from Union, Wash, and dreams of sailing around the world after retirement.
Dr. Danna Summers, a passionate advocate for neurodiversity and trauma-informed care, empowers communities by bridging cultural understanding and promoting equity for neurodivergent individuals.
Tricia Eyerly is a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, bringing 33 years of experience in vocational rehabilitation counseling. With a strong commitment to enhancing the lives of those in our communities, she has dedicated her career to promoting accessibility and independence. Education: Master’s Degree, in Vocational Rehabilitation, Western Oregon University Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification Professional Experience: Assistant Director of Human Resources, Training & Independent Living Services, Department of Services for the Blind, 6 years Executive Leadership and oversight of human resources, training team, and manage the independent living contract for DSB. East Region Area Manager, DSB, 11 years Managed multiple teams across the state and primarily the eastern region including the Spokane and Yakima offices for DSB. Provided direct customer service to customers, supporting staff in their roles at DSB and encouraging professional development of staff, along with process and service provision improvements. Involvement with WASILC: Since joining WASILC in 2020, Tricia has actively contributed council. She is particularly focused on Legislative interests, demonstrating a strong commitment to our mission of advocacy and support for independent living. Commitment to the Mission: Tricia believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently and participate fully in their communities. With a vision for a more inclusive society, she is dedicated to advocating for policies that ensure dignity and autonomy for individuals with disabilities. Personal Statement: “It is an honor to serve on the Washington Statewide Independent Living Council. My goal is to work collaboratively with my fellow council members together with individuals with disabilities, so that all can thrive independently in their communities.” Contact Information: Email: tricia.eyerly@dsb.wa.gov Phone: 509.575.2420
Dana has worked in social services for over 30 years and held various leadership roles at DSHS. Dana saw the powerful impact of independent living work early in her career as she worked with youth with disabilities. She spent many years providing direct counseling and treatment services to youth as well as developing statewide treatment programs. Education: Master’s Degree in Education, Saint Martin’s University, 2000 Professional Experience: Director, DSHS – Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, 2 years Manage the vocational rehabilitation program for the State of Washington. Deputy Chief of Staff, DSHS, 6 years Manage DSHS wide services including Risk Management, Privacy, Internal Audit, Human Resources, Technology services, and Communications. Since joining WASILC in 2023, Dana has actively supported WASILCs efforts to broaden awareness of its mission and gain the resources needed to move the needle on independent living services in Washington. Dana has spent her adult life working to support those who are often overlooked and lack the resources to achieve the success they want to achieve. This includes not only her professional work but volunteer work with community organizations that provide food, clothing, and other resources to those in need. Dana believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently and participate fully in their communities. She shares the Council’s vision for a more inclusive society and is dedicated to advocating for policies that ensure dignity and autonomy for individuals with disabilities. Personal Statement: It is an honor to be part of the Washington Statewide Independent Living Council. Working with fellow council members, I hope for a future that is filled with opportunities and prosperity for individuals with disabilities. Where all people can thrive and have equal access to all aspects of life. Contact Information: Email: dana.phelps@dshs.wa.gov Phone: (360) 742-7318
