Dear RICADV,

We are overjoyed to announce that the RICADV Board of Directors has officially named Lucy Rios as the RICADV's executive director! Lucy has been a leader in the movement to end domestic violence in Rhode Island for nearly two decades, and her wealth of knowledge will continue moving the mission forward to end abuse and prevent violence before it starts in our state.

Lucy has dedicated 19 years to supporting survivors of domestic violence and their families in Rhode Island through several capacities at the RICADV, including as interim executive director, deputy director and leading the prevention and communications teams. Her commitment to catalyzing change and building a world without violence through community building and prevention work has been instrumental. The creation of the RICADV’s Ten Men program, now entering its 9^th year gathering and supporting men as aspiring allies in violence prevention, is just a glimpse of the innovative and meaningful work Lucy has led.

Reflecting on her many years serving directly in the movement to end domestic abuse, Lucy shared,

“Working with survivors and the entire R.I. community has been an honor. Every day, I’m re-energized by the community and members of the RICADV’s task force SOAR (Sisters Overcoming Abusive Relationships), and the opportunity to make the world a better place alongside them. It is a privilege to do this work.”

The RICADV and entire state of Rhode Island are in caring hands with Lucy at the helm of the statewide coalition dedicated to ending domestic violence, cultivating a world where all people can live without violence or fear and thrive. We look forward to this next chapter in the RICADV’s history, and the future we will create - together.

Sincerely,

Jim Berson

Interim Chairman, RICADV Board of Directors