Gov. Sherrill appoints Lisa Montalbano as ombudsman for individuals with disabilities
TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Mikie Sherrill has appointed Lisa Montalbano to serve as New Jersey’s ombudsman for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Montalbano will lead the Office of the Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities and Their Families, which helps residents navigate state systems of care and access resources intended to support independence, dignity and quality of life.
“I am thrilled to appoint Lisa Montalbano to serve as Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Lisa brings more than two decades of experience connecting individuals with disabilities and their families with opportunities. I am confident that under her leadership, this Office will serve as an invaluable resource in ensuring New Jersey residents can connect with the State’s diverse array of supports and services,” said Governor Sherrill.
Montalbano previously served as chief executive officer of Employment Horizons, a nonprofit organization focused on employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In that role, she developed relationships across the disability community, including with families throughout New Jersey.
“I am honored to be appointed to serve as New Jersey’s Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities,” said Lisa Montalbano. “I look forward to partnering with the Governor to ensure New Jerseyans with intellectual and developmental disabilities can access the tools and resources to thrive.”
Under state law, the ombudsperson serves as a source of information for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families, helps residents navigate services and supports through the departments of Human Services and Children and Families, and assists with dispute resolution in a neutral and objective manner.
The office is also responsible for identifying patterns of complaints and recommending strategies for improvement within New Jersey’s systems of care.
