Opportunity Enterprises recently honored Julia Hess for nine years of service as an OE Board Member. Hess will be retiring from her role as Board of Directors’ Treasurer at the end of June.
“I have loved my time with OE, and this organization will always have a special place in my heart,” said Hess. “Not only do they do a tremendous job serving people with developmental disabilities, like my sister-in-law; they are a fabulous organization with such a bright future.”
Hess first became involved with Opportunity Enterprises in 2003, when she attended her first OE Winter Gala. Prior to this, she only knew of OE through her sister-in-law, a participant in OE’s programming. Impressed by the breadth of the agency’s impact in the community and the staff and supporters she met at the Gala, Hess didn’t hesitate to accept the invitation to become involved from Delta Theta Tau, the philanthropic sorority that hosts the OE Gala. As co-chair of the event, Hess utilized her professional experience with nonprofit fundraising to further serve the community.
After joining the Board of Directors in 2005, Hess served two years as Chair, two years as Vice Chair, and one as Treasurer. She played an integral role in the recent Build OE Lakeside Capital Campaign and had a hand in approving OE’s 2014-2019 strategic plan. Hess will serve as current Treasurer until June 30, 2014.
“I am so thankful to Julia for all of her years of service to OE,” said David Stupay, CEO of Opportunity Enterprises. “We will miss her enthusiasm and passion for our mission and those we serve, but as one of our most dedicated and committed supporters, I know she will continue to be a member of the OE family.”
At a recent board meeting, OE participant and current President of OE Self-Advocates Steve Dowdle presented Hess with a plaque to honor her time with the OE Board of Directors. During the presentation, Hess gave a humble and heartfelt thanks to the group, “Thank you so much for allowing me to serve this great agency and its participants for the past decade. I have learned so much and it has truly been an honor to contribute to the success of our participants.”