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Board of Directors

DCIL is governed by a dedicated group of Independent Living activists. Our Board of Directors, elected by members, meets regularly to set strategy and oversee management.
The Board is majority-led by individuals with disabilities, ensuring that the voices and lived experiences of our Leaders (service users) directly influence the organisation’s direction and decisions.
Kathy Gillespie

Kathy Gillespie

Chairperson

Bio

Kathy Gillespie is the current Chairperson of DCIL and has been a dedicated board member since 2018. A former teacher of French and English, she retired in 2008 due to health issues and an acquired physical disability. She now works part-time in a small bookkeeping firm. Kathy is passionate about sea swimming, musical theatre, choirs, and has a deep love for animals. Her involvement with DCIL is driven by a strong desire to give back in recognition of the support the organisation has given her.

Marian O'Donnell

Marian O’Donnell

Treasurer

Bio
Marian O’Donnell is the current Treasurer of DCIL and brings decades of experience in disability services and community leadership. She worked with the Irish Wheelchair Association for 12 years as a Supervisor and Deputy Manager, overseeing staff in a Day Care Centre for people with physical and sensory disabilities, while also managing outreach services. Marian then joined Donegal CIL, where she was employed for 17 years as Co-ordinator and Deputy Manager, responsible for the day-to-day coordination of services and regularly deputising in senior roles. She retired from DCIL after 17 years of dedicated service. Marian has served on the Board of Managers of DCIL since 2018 and has previously contributed her expertise to various boards, including a local school board and Letterkenny Gymnastics.
Jason Black

Jason Black

Secretary

Bio

Jason Black, a native of Donegal, is a passionate advocate for the right of all individuals to live full and independent lives. He joined the DCIL Board to contribute his experience and leadership in support of the organisation’s mission and direction. With over 25 years in business he has a a deep understanding of the financial, operational, and strategic demands of running a dynamic, values-driven organisation like DCIL. Today, Jason is a professional high-altitude mountain guide, specialising in remote expedition logistics and the complex balance of managing risk versus reward.

Karen Keating

Karen Keating

Board Member

Bio
Karen Keating joined the Board of DCIL in 2024. A former Principal Officer with the Department of Social Welfare, Karen brings extensive expertise in public service and policy development. As a service user of DCIL, she has a deep and personal commitment to the organisation’s ethos of independent living. Her involvement is motivated by a strong dedication to promoting choice, empowerment, and equal opportunities for people with disabilities. Karen remains a passionate advocate for the core values that drive DCIL’s mission.
Donna Russel

Donna Russell

Board Member

Bio
Donna Russell has been an active member of the DCIL Board for over 10 years, holding various positions both on the Board and within its subcommittees. As a Leader (Service User) of DCIL, Donna brings lived experience and a strong personal commitment to the organization’s mission. Her involvement is driven by a deep interest in the rights of disabled people, shaped by her own experiences. Donna is a passionate advocate for inclusion, equality, and the continued empowerment of people with disabilities.
Laura Sweeney DCIL Board Member

Laura Sweeney

Board Member

Bio

Laura Sweeney has been a Leader with DCIL since 2016 and brings valuable experience to Board of Directors. Prior to becoming a Board member, Laura worked with DCIL for four years as part of a Community Employment scheme, where she gained experience in office administration and developed a strong understanding of the organisation and its day-to-day operations. In 2024, Laura worked as a Leader Mentor through the Rethink Ireland funded programme. In this role, she supported other Leaders to better understand their roles and responsibilities, with a particular focus on confidence building and peer support. Laura also helped to establish workshops that promoted independent living skills and empowered Leaders to develop greater self direction and independence.