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Department of Disabilities

Maryland Commission on Disabilities

About the Commission​

The Maryland Commission on Disabilities (MCOD) gives advice to the Maryland Department of Disabilities to help improve programs for people with disabilities. The group helps create the state plan that sets goals for every government office in Maryland that offers these services. MCOD has 19 members chosen by the Governor, as well as members from the state Senate and House of Delegates.

Current MCOD Commissioners

Chair - Van Brooks, Chair

Appointed by Governor to 3-year terms:

  • Christopher Mason-Hale
  • Adam Michael Hays
  • Dan Martin
  • Irene Souada
  • Douglas Smith
  • Claudine Nahgwa Paxton
  • Nicole Webb
  • Dr. Bonnielin Swenor, PhD
  • Charles Eugene Rachel
  • Michelle K. Livshin
  • Andrea Kolp
  • Sharon Maneki
  • Caroline M. Kobek Pezzarossi Ph.D.
  • Lynnette Blake
  • John Michaels Jr
  • Dave Drezner
  • Veronica Davila Steele
  • Sandra Bastinelli

Appointed by Senate President:
Senator Craig Zucker​​

Appointed by House Speaker:

Meeting Schedule

All meetings listed below will be hosted on Zoom unless noted otherwise. Please send an email to Marisha Ingram to RSVP and receive access.

  • October 8, 2026 - 6:00 p.m.
  • January 2027 (Date to be determined)
  • April 2027 (Date to be determined)

Meeting Minutes & Agendas

2026