News Release
September 17, 2026
Media contact: Billie Jo David, Director of Communications | 330.634.8073 or bdavid@summitdd.org
Summit DD Board Selects Holly Brugh as Next Superintendent
(Cuyahoga Falls, OH) – The Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board has unanimously selected Holly Brugh to serve as its next Superintendent, effective January 1, 2027. Brugh will succeed Lisa Kamlowsky, who will retire on December 31, 2026.
The Board engaged the Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities (OACB) to conduct an extensive statewide search for the next Superintendent. The search included a review of multiple qualified candidates and interviews.
“Selecting a new Superintendent is one of the Board’s most important responsibilities,” said Summit DD Board President Allyson V. James. “The number and caliber of candidates who participated in this process speaks to the strength of Summit DD and the culture we have built.”
James continued, “That strength is reflected in the dedication, professionalism, and expertise of our staff, whose commitment to the individuals and families we serve is fundamental to our success. As we welcome new leadership, we look forward to building upon this strong foundation and continuing to advance the Mission and Vision of Summit DD.”
Brugh has more than 25 years of experience directing complex developmental disability systems, Medicaid-funded services, and community-based support. She has served Summit DD for 18 years in a variety of leadership roles across the organization. Her experience includes serving as Director of Children’s Services, Director of Service and Support Administration and, since 2022, Assistant Superintendent where she has overseen Human Resources and Communications.
“We have every confidence that Holly will carry out the priorities established by the Board,” James said. “She understands Summit DD’s responsibility to continue to move forward in our 60-year history of serving people with developmental disabilities and their families.”
“I am honored and incredibly excited to have the opportunity to lead Summit DD. I have dedicated more than 25 years of my career to the developmental disabilities field, including 20 years serving the Summit County community in various roles, and this mission is deeply meaningful to me,” commented Brugh.
Brugh continued, “I look forward to building on the organization’s strengths, listening to the people we support and their families, investing in our dedicated employees while working with our Board, community partners, and staff to ensure Summit DD continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities.”
Brugh holds a Master of Education in Early Childhood Special Education and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Bowling Green State University. She holds Superintendent Certification through the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities.
During Kamlowsky’s tenure, she has helped lead the organization through significant changes in the developmental disabilities system while maintaining a focus on the people and families at the heart of Summit DD’s mission.
“Summit DD has shaped my professional life over the past 30 years, and this work has had an impact on me and my family that I will always carry with me,” Kamlowsky said.
“I am deeply grateful for the people, families and community who have allowed me to be part of their lives. As I prepare to retire, I want nothing more than the very best for Summit DD. I am confident the person-first culture that has defined this organization will continue for many years to come.”
Summit DD looks forward to introducing Brugh to the community in her new role when she takes office in January. Additional opportunities for individuals served, families, employees, providers, and community partners to meet Brugh and learn more about her vision for Summit DD will be shared as the leadership transition progresses.
About Summit DD:
Summit DD provides essential services and supports to nearly 6,000 people with developmental disabilities across Summit County. Because of our community’s support, we empower people of all abilities to reach their full potential, one person at a time. Learn more about the impact you’re making at SummitDD.org.
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Questions?
Please contact Billie Jo David, Director of Communications, with any media questions.
330.634.8073 or bdavid@summitdd.org
