In Memoriam

In Memory and Celebration of Our Council Colleagues

For we are leaders of inclusiveness and community, of love, equity, and justice
--Disability Rights Activist Judy Heumann (1947 – 2023)

Jennifer C. Thau

1971-2024

As Vice Chair of the Council on Developmental Disabilities and with an education in social work, Jen offered a positive spirit and a thoughtful, reflective approach to discussions. A hard worker and a lover of nature and pets, Jen’s kindness and advocacy is missed by all.

Jen Thau, a white woman with short, curly red hair smiles at the viewer.

Jen's smile could light up a room. As Vice Chair of the CDD, Jen led with kindness and humility.

Jen and Council Member Shameka Andrews in discussion at a Council meeting.

A photo of a lake surrounded by green trees.

Green Lakes State Park, where Jen enjoyed spending time with her family.

Marc Rosen

1988-2022

A son, brother, friend, poet, and fierce advocate, Council Member Marc Rosen tragically passed away as a third-year law student at Hofstra University, in pursuit of a career as a disability rights lawyer. Through his work on the Council, in his community, and in his personal life, Marc used his lived experience and his passion to improve opportunities for the disabled and LGBTQ communities.

A man in a rainbow tie dye shirt gives a speech. His arm is raised and he is holding a paper. He speaks into a microphone.

Marc was a fierce advocate for the causes he believed in. He had a strong sense of what was right, and he always pushed people to do the right thing.

A man stands at a podium. He is giving a speech in front of a stage. A person sits to his right, listening.

Marc frequently spoke before groups to educate them about issues in developmental disability.

A man white man with brown hair sitting at a restaurant in a black shirt gives the camera a small smile.

Marc was a kind person with a genuine love for his community and a desire to see his peers uplifted.