Lee Yount Named Interim Chief Executive Officer

Birmingham, AL, (July 27, 2020)- The Board of Directors of United Ability, formerly United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham, has named Lee Yount, Interim Chief Executive Officer following the recent death of long-time CEO, Dr. Gary Edwards (Dr. E).

Ms. Yount, a career-long disability services leader in the Birmingham community, will begin serving as United Ability’s Interim CEO on July 27 while the search for a permanent CEO is underway. Most recently, she served as the CEO of Glenwood in Birmingham. During her tenure, the organization grew into one of the most significant non-profit autism and behavioral health service agencies in Alabama. She brings over 40 years of experience supporting people with autism, behavioral health disorders, and developmental disabilities.

“I am very pleased that Ms. Yount, a long-time friend, and 30-year colleague of Dr. E, has agreed to serve as our Interim CEO while we conduct our search,” said Allen Bolton, United Ability Board Chair. “Lee’s leadership experience plus her familiarity with United Ability means that she can hit the ground running as a member of our outstanding Executive Team. United Ability provided services to her brother Jim as a child and adult, For that, she is ‘forever grateful,’” Bolton added.

“I am honored to follow in the footsteps of my friend, Dr. Gary Edwards, as we search for a permanent leader. Dr. Edwards devoted his life to individuals with disabilities and was a compassionate leader and passionate advocate. I look forward to continuing his work,” said Ms. Yount. She went on to say, “ I also look forward to joining the United Ability team and supporting our mission of empowering individuals with disabilities to live full and meaningful lives.”