Jan Cohen

Interim Executive Director

Jan Cohen is serving as interim Executive Director while the Ability Now Bay Area Board of Directors conducts a national search for a new full-time Executive Director for the organization, following the departure of Maureen Decoste from the position.

Jan is poised to guide Ability Now through this transition in collaboration with the organization’s board and dedicated staff. She is a former speech pathologist and special education teacher. As a change agent and innovator, Jan founded Project HIRED, an employment services agency for people with disabilities. She also previously served as Director of New Business Ventures at HOPE Services.

Jan has a career commitment to helping organizations like Ability Now remain focused on their mission during times of change and transition. She has served as the Interim Executive at over 20 nonprofit organizations, including such disability service organizations as Ability Path, Via Services, Magical Bridge Foundation, Sunflower Hill, NAMI San Mateo County, Helpers Community, and Easter Seals of the Bay Area.