Jade Presnell

Jade is a policy analyst whose work is driven by a passion for advancing equity, inclusion, and quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. Jade is particularly dedicated to translational, community-engaged research that integrates best practice into service delivery. As a licensed social worker, she enjoys working directly with individuals using services, families, and providers to leverage their expertise to drive positive systems transformation. In addition to 15-plus years of practice experience, Jade is highly skilled in qualitative research and analysis and supports HSRI with ongoing research, recommendations development, and systems change implementation efforts.

Prior to joining HSRI, Jade has a long history of working across the behavioral health and disability sectors in various roles (e.g., direct support professional, behavioral consultant) and embraces a strengths-based, collaborative, justice-oriented approach to her work. She is currently a doctoral candidate at Indiana University School of Social Work where she enjoys teaching as an adjunct faculty member and conducting research focused on advancing social inclusion, health equity, trauma-informed practice, and workforce development within the IDD sector. Currently underway, her dissertation focuses on identifying strategies for creating more equitable communities through inclusive volunteerism. Jade is also involved in various state and national-level advocacy organizations and committees (e.g., Down Syndrome Indiana) and is a fierce advocate for inclusive education.

When not at work, Jade’s best days include antiquing, putting her hands in the dirt, coffee, naps, and front porch sitting.

Education

• Master of Social Work from Indiana University – Indianapolis
• Master of Science in Psychology from DePaul University
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and English from Butler University