Pioneer Center enters an exciting era of change as Jackie Wells takes hold of the reins as the organization’s new President and CEO.
Jackie has been involved in the field of human services for more than 17 years and has experience in intellectual and developmental disability and behavioral health programming as well as being well-versed in the operations side of a large human service organization. Most recently, Jackie was the Vice President of Employment Services for the Milwaukee Center for Independence where she worked passionately to maximize independence for individuals with disabilities. She is also recognized as an expert on disability harassment, Think College, and Employment First for people with disabilities having spoken nationally to advocate for these topics.
“The board of directors was notably impressed with Jackie’s extensive leadership and experience within the human services industry, along with her successful engagement in the legislative arena and having first-hand experience with managed care transition. One of the most prominent attributes Jackie made evident was her passion for the people we serve.” Mike Moushey, Chairman of Pioneer Center’s Board of Directors said, “Pioneer Center’s vision is to be recognized for setting the standard in human services and we believe Jackie Wells is the perfect leader to bring this vision to fruition within our community and for our clients.”
Previous to her tenure with the Milwaukee Center for Independence, Jackie’s career endeavors included leadership positions with the YMCA of Metro Milwaukee, the Waisman Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Concordia University, and Disability Rights Wisconsin. Jackie has a Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology and served on the Metro Milwaukee Society for Human Resources Workforce Readiness Committee and on several non-profit boards. Jackie has been a consultant for the Cooperative Educational Service Agencies (CESA#1) which serve as a link between school districts and the state. In addition, she has served on numerous non–profit boards, and has been formally trained in facilitation and fund development strategies. Jackie was also the 2011 recipient of the United Way P5 award. The P5 recognizes five professional community leaders who have made extraordinary commitments of leadership, volunteerism, mentoring and philanthropy to Milwaukee’s non-profit community.
“I am honored to assume the role as President and CEO of Pioneer Center. I look forward to building partnerships within the community that will enhance the lives of the clients we serve,” stated Jackie Wells said, “I am confident that Pioneer Center will be a strong, focused and sustained organization.”
