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Washington, DC -It is with deep sorrow that the Office of Disability Rights (ODR) shares the news of the passing of our Director, Mathew McCollough.
Director McCollough was appointed to this role in July 2017 by Mayor Muriel Bowser and took on the work with enthusiasm and a deep knowledge of the DC disability community. Mat championed equity and inclusion, building on his earlier roles as Executive Director of the DC Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) and ODR’s first Communications Manager. Mat truly loved his work and believed in the power of community. He would close ODR staff meetings by saying, “Take care of each other, and love each other.”
Mat’s priority was always helping people with disabilities get what they needed to live their best lives. His heart was with the community first as he prioritized programs and events that connected people with disabilities to important resources or empowered them in their own advocacy journeys. He was a dedicated public servant whose leadership and compassion transformed our agency, the District Government, and the disability community for the better.
Mat was often the first or only person with a developmental disability serving in his various leadership roles. He believed that representation mattered, and he made his voice heard. He especially loved engaging with young people and made the most of every chance to show them that they can, and should, take on leadership and decision-making roles. His recent visits with students at Dunbar and Coolidge High Schools were especially meaningful. Because of his empowering message, Mat was chosen to be featured in this video as part of The Judith Campaign, a communications campaign spearheaded by the DD Council, which promotes awareness and acceptance of the diverse contributions of DC’s disability community.
Mat’s influence also extended beyond the District. He was first appointed by President Obama to the United States Access Board in 2011, where he advanced accessibility standards that promote full participation for people with disabilities. He also made history as the first Board President with developmental disabilities for the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities.
Mat was not just a great leader and colleague; he was a friend to so many people he worked with and touched so many hearts with his caring and kindness.
During this difficult time, our thoughts and condolences are with Mat’s wife, Melissa McCollough, family, friends, loved ones, and all colleagues who mourn his loss. We want to thank all who have reached out to ODR. We are grateful for the outpouring support. Mat’s legacy of service and advocacy will continue through ODR’s local efforts and the broader global disability rights movement. In Mat’s spirit, we encourage everyone to take care of each other and hold your loved ones close. Details on a memorial celebrating Mat’s life and other ways to honor him are forthcoming.
 
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