President & Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mary Onyejose

At Community Living of Rhode Island (CLRI), our highest priority is ensuring the health, safety, dignity, and overall well-being of every individual entrusted to our care. We believe that every person deserves to be treated with respect, compassion, and dignity, regardless of their abilities or circumstances. As a family-oriented organization, we welcome each participant with open arms and remain committed to protecting their rights while empowering them to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Our approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and person-centered planning. Person-Centered Planning is at the heart of everything we do at Community Living of Rhode Island. We believe that every individual has unique strengths, preferences, goals, and aspirations that should guide the services and supports they receive.

Through comprehensive Person-Centered Planning, participants are empowered to actively shape their own lives, make meaningful choices, and pursue personal outcomes that matter most to them. Our interdisciplinary team works collaboratively with participants, families, guardians, and community partners to develop individualized plans that promote self-determination, independence, community integration, health, safety, and overall quality of life. These living plans are regularly reviewed and updated to ensure services remain responsive to each person’s evolving needs, preferences, and life goals.

My passion for serving humanity, particularly individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, continues to inspire our organization’s mission, vision, and values. It is a privilege to serve alongside families, guardians, and caregivers who

place their trust in us. We deeply appreciate that trust and remain dedicated to providing exceptional care and support every day.

I am equally proud of our exceptional team of professionals, including our Direct Support Professionals, supervisors, managers, and support staff. Their compassion, integrity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication embody the values of CLRI. Together, we foster a culture of inclusion, respect, accountability, and excellence that positively impacts the lives of those we serve.

As a leader, I strive to inspire hope, encourage personal and professional growth, and cultivate an environment where employees can thrive. Throughout my career, I have been committed to mentoring others, developing future leaders, and implementing innovative practices that strengthen both organizational performance and service outcomes.

Human services is more than a profession for me—it is a calling. Every day presents an opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and strengthen the communities we serve. I remain humbled and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this meaningful work.

Education

• Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
• Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.)
• Master of Science in Psychology, specializing in Leadership Development and Coaching
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Licenses and Certifications

• American Red Cross Certified Trainer/Instructor in CPR and First Aid
• Certified Nonviolent Crisis Prevention and Intervention Instructor, Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI)

Professional Memberships

• American Psychological Association (APA)
• Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
• Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP)
• American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR)
• Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE)

A Message of Gratitude

My commitment to service is rooted in faith, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the value of every human life. As an advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, I remain dedicated to promoting opportunities, inclusion, independence, and dignity for all.

To the parents and guardians who have entrusted us with the care of your loved ones, thank you for your confidence and trust. We do not take that responsibility lightly. To those considering Community Living of Rhode Island, we thank you for the opportunity to introduce our organization and look forward to partnering with you in supporting the people who matter most.

With sincere gratitude,

Dr. Mary Onyejose, Ph.D.
President & Chief Executive Officer
Community Living of Rhode Island