On July 1, MIH welcomed new leadership for its Board of Directors as Nick Burton assumed the role of Board President and Chris Knoerlein became Vice President.
Burton has served on the MIH Board since 2024 and succeeds Allan Sheahen as President. Knoerlein, who joined the Board in 2023, steps into the Vice President role previously held by Burton.
Both leaders bring extensive experience and a shared commitment to advancing inclusive, affordable, and accessible housing opportunities for Marylanders with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“I have spent my career working at the intersection of disability, mental health, and community inclusion,” said Burton. “Inclusive housing sits at the heart of all of it. A person cannot thrive in their community without a home that supports that vision. I am thrilled to serve as President of the MIH Board and work alongside the MIH team, fellow board members, and community partners to expand access to safe, affordable, and accessible housing for people with disabilities.”
“Having served on the Board of MIH, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the organization’s impact and its commitment to expanding housing options for people with disabilities,” said Knoerlein. “Accepting the Vice President role is both an honor and an opportunity to deepen my involvement in a cause I care deeply about. Throughout my career, I’ve seen how access to safe, affordable, and inclusive housing can foster greater independence, stability, and quality of life. I’m excited to help build on MIH’s strong foundation and expand its impact in the years ahead.”
MIH Executive Director Tim Wiens welcomed the new leadership team, stating, “I am delighted with the newly elected board leadership of Nick and Chris as MIH continues to grow, innovate, and mature.”
The leadership transition also marks a new chapter for Allan Sheahen, who has served as MIH Board President since the organization’s founding in 2020. Sheahen will become Immediate Past President and remain an active member of the Board.
During his tenure, Sheahen partnered closely with Wiens to build a strong, high-functioning board and guide MIH through a period of remarkable growth, helping the organization triple in operational capacity while expanding its impact across Maryland.
“Allan’s leadership has been critical to MIH’s growth and maturity over the past five years,” said Wiens. “His vision and dedication have helped position MIH as a leading advocate for inclusive housing opportunities for people with disabilities.”
As MIH looks to the future, the organization remains committed to creating housing opportunities, connecting people with resources, and helping Marylanders with intellectual and developmental disabilities live independently in the communities of their choice.