Director of Service and Support Administration

Nicole was named the Director of Service and Support Administration in 2017. Since joining the Hancock County Board of Developmental Disabilities in 2012, Nicole has transitioned from an SSA, to Lead SSA, to SSA Manager, and director.

Prior to joining the Board, Nicole worked at Findlay Hope House for the Homeless where she was the case manager for the transitional shelter and coordinated a permanent supportive housing program for homeless people with disabilities. She also spent several years as a youth advisor at a juvenile residential center.

Nicole has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and criminal justice from the University of Findlay and a master’s degree in criminal justice from Tiffin University.

“I am happy to be a part of an organization that truly embraces the mission statement. The favorite part of my position is getting to see people accomplish their goals.”

Nicole was born, raised, and resides in Findlay.

Director of Planning & Development

Denise joined the Hancock County Board of Developmental Disabilities in November 2015 as an Advocacy and Support Specialist before being named Director of Quality Services in January 2016 and then Director of Planning and Development in March 2024.

Prior to her current position, Denise held a variety of positions during her nine years with the Clearwater Council of Governments. As a program developer, Denise coordinated, developed, and presented relevant trainings for county board of DD, as well as independent and agency providers. Denise also spent nine years with Advocacy & Protective Services Inc., providing court-appointed guardianship services to adults with developmental disabilities.

Denise holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Kent State University.

“During my time here at the county board, I have had the privilege of overseeing numerous programs and initiatives. It is very rewarding to know that everything we do is for the individuals we support, and it is exciting to see them grow and become part of their community.”

Denise grew up in Norwalk and resides in Bascom.

Director of Community Supports

Nicole started with the Hancock County Board of Developmental Disabilities in 2014 as an SSA. She held the positions of SSA Lead and SSA Manager prior to taking on her current role as Director of Community Supports. She has previously worked in the criminal justice field as a victim advocate and as an adult probation officer.

Nicole was born and raised in Ottawa, Ohio. She resided in Wapakoneta for several years before moving to Findlay. Nicole holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Bowling Green State University and a master’s degree in public administration from Kent State University.

“I enjoy being part of all the work that happens to connect those we support to people and places in their community. Being able to watch their growth and successes as well as being able to help them navigate through obstacles are very rewarding experiences for me.”

Director of Finance

Stephen is the Director of Operations at the Hancock County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Since joining the Board in 2005, Stephen also has served as Assistant Superintendent, and the Business and Medicaid Manager.

Prior to coming to Hancock County, Stephen spent 10 years working in the developmental disabilities field in the areas of Community Employment and Recreation, Case Management, Community Employment, and Workshop Production.

Stephen has a master’s degree in political science with an emphasis on public administration from Ohio University.

A native of Cambridge, Ohio, Stephen has lived in Findlay for the past 13 years.

“When I was interviewing for my first job with a county board of DD, I asked the interviewers why we didn’t try to find out what people with disabilities wanted from their lives. That approach still applies. Working closely with individuals helps me look at situations and make decisions in a balanced way.”

Director of Early Intervention

Linda Schurch has been the Director of Educational Services at the Hancock County Board of Developmental Disabilities since 2018.

She has 30+ years of experience in the field of developmental disabilities, including Early Intervention, preschool, K-12, and adult programs/service delivery. She also has held positions in public schools, serving as an intervention specialist, homebound instruction tutor, director of special education, and senior director of school improvement and intervention, and federal programs.

Linda was raised in Findlay though middle school, where her father was an Ohio State Highway patrolman and her mother worked at Cooper Tire & Rubber.

She has a bachelor’s degree in special education and a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling and administration from Ohio State University. Her doctorate in organizational leadership was earned at Walden University.

“I believe that every person has extraordinary value and capacity for growth,” Linda said. “Respect is the foundation of meaningful relationships and every person deserves a full measure of such. I try very hard to lead by example.”

Director of Facilities

Brian began his career with Hancock County Board of Developmental Disabilities in 1989 as a mechanic’s assistant. He held the position of mechanic and maintenance worker prior to becoming the Manager of Facilities in 2016.

Brian was named the Director of Facilities in 2024. In his current position Brian is responsible for all aspects of vehicle and building maintenance, as well as capital improvement projects and safety compliance.

“I have spent my entire career at the Hancock County Board of Developmental Disabilities. For 32 years I have watched the people we support accomplish their goals and achieve their dreams. It has definitely been a rewarding experience.”

Brian was born, raised and resides in Findlay.

Director of Administrative Services

Russ joined the Hancock County Board of Development Disabilities in October of 2020 as a Service and Support Administrator. Since joining the board, Russ also served as Investigative Agent and was named Administrative Services Director in March of 2024.

Prior to joining the Board, Russ was the Director at a non-public school in Bucyrus, Ohio. As director, Russ supervised the teachers and staff, assisted with IEP meetings, and worked with school districts to assist children with disabilities. Russ also has experience working in Day Habilitation and Special Olympics prior to his work in the school.

Russ was raised in Hoytville, Ohio and currently resides there. He has a bachelor's degree in Pastoral Leadership from Lee University.

“It is a great experience to be a part of a team of people who are committed to helping others live their best life possible. Being a part of helping someone to be themselves no matter the circumstances is very rewarding.”

Director of Public Relations

Nadine first started at the County Board in 2013 as the Fiscal Specialist. Since 2018, she has also held the titles of Quality Services Manager, Manager of Public Relations until being named Director of Public Relations in 2024.

Nadine earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in business management, both from Tiffin University.

Originally from Tiffin, Ohio, Nadine moved to Findlay in 2011 where she continues to reside.

“Working at the County Board, especially in the role of PR, has allowed me to meet the people we support and share the stories with the community. Helping people identify and break down barriers to live their life to the fullest is the best perk any job could offer.”