TALLAHASSEE, Dec. 14, 2020 — Disability Rights Florida (DRF), the state’s designated protection and advocacy system for individuals with disabilities, announced the appointment of attorney Ann Siegel as legal director of the nonprofit organization.
“Ann is widely recognized as a leader in advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities in Florida and across the county,” said DRF Executive Director Peter Sleasman. “She’s a consummate leader who is driven by her passion for advocacy to improve services for children, youth, and adults with disabilities.”
Acting as General Counsel to the organization, Siegel will be responsible for leading DRF’s individual and systemic litigation as well as advocacy services for individuals with disabilities. In addition, she will assist the Executive Director in programmatic oversight and developing and implementing DRF’s strategic plan.
Siegel has received national recognition for her advocacy and legal expertise through presentations at the National Council on Disabilities, Assistive Technology Industry Association, and the National Disability Rights Network. And, earlier this year, she was the recipient of the Florida Rehabilitation Council Stephen R. Wise Advocacy Award, an annual recognition of leaders and champions in the cause of helping persons with disabilities achieve independence and dignity through meaningful employment.
Located in DRF’s South Florida office, Siegel has been an advocate for individuals with disabilities for over 25 years – with a special interest in children. Previously the director of DRF’s Advocacy, Education & Outreach Team of attorneys, advocates, and investigators, as well as the agency’s Client Assistance Program, she was also an attorney at Broward Legal Services. Siegel received her Juris Doctor from Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad Law Center, is a member of the Florida Bar, and is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Courts for the Southern, Middle and Northern Districts as well as in the 11th Circuit Court of Appeal.