Ash Lemons
About Ash Lemons
Title and Current Position
Ash Lemons is the Associate Director at The Ability Center, where he has been employed since July 2002. In this role, he has been instrumental in advancing policies and programs that increase accessibility and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.
Education and Certifications
Ash Lemons holds an Associate’s degree in Aerospace Technology from the Community College of the United States Air Force and a Bachelor of Science degree in Liberal Arts from Excelsior College (SUNY). Additionally, he has held an Ohio Realtors’ License and possesses ICC certification as an Accessibility Inspector/Plans Examiner.
Military and Advocacy Background
Prior to joining The Ability Center, Ash Lemons served 8 years in Active-Duty Air Force, gaining extensive experience in leadership and operational management. Following his military service, he became a key advocate for accessibility, receiving the 'Spirit of Democracy' award in 2005 from former Ohio Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell for his work in enhancing accessibility and HELP Americans Vote Act compliance.
Advocacy and Legislative Contributions
Ash has been recognized for his significant contributions to advocacy and legislation. In 2008, he was acknowledged by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for his role in the passage of SB209, which expanded opportunities for hunters with disabilities. He also served as an appointed member to the Ohio Secretary of State's ADA advisory committee and The Ohio Governor's Council on People with Disabilities, providing expert guidance on disability issues.
Achievements in Community Transition
Ash Lemons has made noteworthy advancements in community transition for individuals with disabilities. In 2012, he accepted the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging 'Innovations—Aging Achievement Award' for programming that expedited community living options for those unnecessarily living in nursing facilities. By 2019, his team at The Ability Center had transitioned their 850th individual back into community-based living.