Posted on May 14, 2025
Each month, we highlight a “behind-the-scenes” team member whose work supports our mission, but whose face you might not often see on our social media pages.
We’re excited to help you get to know our innovative team and the complex work we do.
So, tune in for our #TeamMemberSpotlight, where our team members share in their own words a bit about themselves!
What’s your job title? 
Director of Marketing & Communications
How long have you been with Penn-Mar?
Just over 3 months—and already deep in the trenches.
How did you get connected with Penn-Mar?
A curious click on a LinkedIn posting turned into the best decision I’ve made in years.
What was your previous work experience, and how did it prepare you for your current role?
I spent years as a pastor and ran a creative consulting firm focused on nonprofits. That means I’ve lived at the intersection of storytelling, strategy, and purpose—and Penn-Mar feels like a natural evolution of that path.
What does your work entail?
Some days it’s designing; other days it’s strategy sessions, storytelling, or designing. All days, it’s about connecting people to the mission and message in a way that actually lands.
What’s an average day like for you?
Emails, meetings, more emails. Toss in some creative direction, big-picture planning, and the occasional rabbit hole of inspiration—and that’s a Tuesday.
What’s one thing you wish people realized about your job?
That storytelling is sacred work. Finding the right voice, the right moment, the right perspective—it’s like treasure hunting. And everyone’s story is worth the search.
In another life, your career path is…
River guide. Less email, more adventure—same need for trust, vision, and knowing when to steer.
Why is Penn-Mar’s mission important to you?
Because advocating for people who are too often ignored is what I’ve always been about. Everyone deserves to be seen—and not just noticed, but truly seen.
What’s one thing you wish the public understood about people with IDD?
That we all want the same things: purpose, challenge, connection, and a chance to thrive. The differences are surface-level—the humanity is shared.
What’s your favorite quote or mantra?
“Love first—everything else is second.” It’s hard to dismiss or mistreat someone you truly love. And listening to someone’s story? That’s one of the simplest—and most radical—acts of love.
Any hidden talents or fun facts someone wouldn’t know about you?
I’ve been married over 28 years to my amazing wife Rachel, and we adopted our daughter Alayia, who’s now 16 and the absolute light of our lives (most days 😏).
If you could travel anywhere in the world, you’d visit…
Switzerland. For the mountains, the rivers, and the peace.
In your spare time, you’ll be found…
Building something with my hands or drifting down a river, ideally with no cell signal.
A book, movie, TV show, or team you love:
Born and raised in Baltimore—so it’s Ravens and Orioles all day. And I’ll happily rewatch Peaky Blinders any time someone needs to catch up.
Something fun, interesting, or meaningful about yourself:
One of my favorite songs to blast on my motorcycle is “Pink Pony Club” by Chappell Roan.
Thanks for sharing, Ray. We’re so glad you’re a part of the team!