Elissa Douglas

Elissa Douglas is a seasoned executive and lifelong advocate in the disability services field, dedicated to advancing quality supports, inclusive communities, and effective leadership across the I/DD sector. As Executive Director of Independent Living Services, Inc. since 2016, she leads a mission-driven team committed to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live with independence and dignity.

Elissa’s passion for this work began at just 13 years old and has guided her entire professional journey. She joined Independent Living Services in 2002 as Director of Human Resources and Compliance, bringing a deep understanding of operational leadership and organizational development to her current executive role.

A recognized leader in Arkansas and beyond, Elissa actively contributes to policy and advocacy efforts through her service on the Developmental Disability Provider Association (DDPA) Board, Governmental Affairs Committee, and PAC Committee. She is also a long-standing member of ANCOR’s Government Relations Committee.

Elissa was honored with the Women’s Leadership Award from the City of Conway in 2022 and is a past president of the Conway Rotary Club. She holds a certificate in nonprofit management from the University of Texas and studied at Northwest Missouri State University.

She and her husband, Stuart, live in Arkansas and are proud parents to their daughter Lily, currently a freshman at the University of Arkansas, and Stuart’s son, David.

Areas of Expertise

• Nonprofit Leadership
• Human Resources & Compliance
• Government Relations & Advocacy
• Organizational Development
• Leadership Training
• Community Engagement
• Service Delivery Innovation

ANCOR Involvement

• Member – Government Relations Committee