Gary Shaheen Retires from Burton Blatt Institute, Embraces New Role

Gary Shaheen, Ph.D., has officially retired from his position at the Burton Blatt Institute (BBI), where he played a pivotal role in advancing initiatives for people with disabilities. His retirement, announced on November 13, 2025, marks the end of a distinguished chapter in his career, though he will continue to contribute as a senior fellow.

During his tenure, Shaheen was instrumental in shaping BBI’s vision, which focuses on human rights and economic empowerment for individuals with diverse disabilities. Even as he steps away from his formal role as director of mental health initiatives, he will maintain an active involvement in the institute’s research and outreach efforts.

Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy

“Gary’s work has been foundational to BBI’s mission,” stated Peter Blanck, University Professor and chairman of BBI. “His ability to connect research with real-world practice has changed lives and influenced national policy. We are deeply grateful for his continued collaboration as a senior fellow.”

Shaheen has dedicated over 40 years of his career to advocating for individuals with disabilities across public, private, and academic sectors. He has developed national programs focused on supported and customized employment, financial inclusion, and innovative self-employment models. His commitment to opening doors for people with disabilities has significantly impacted employment opportunities and entrepreneurship.

Reflecting on his time at BBI, Shaheen expressed gratitude for the experiences he has gained. “It has been an honor and a privilege to have worked at BBI almost from its inception until my most recent role as director of the evaluation of an innovative eight-county, California-based project to implement digital Psychiatric Advanced Directives,” he remarked. “I very much look forward to lending my skills to BBI even after my retirement when needed to advance its mission and goals.”

Continued Commitment to Disability Advocacy

Shaheen’s ongoing role as a senior fellow will allow him to support BBI’s mission from a different vantage point, ensuring that his expertise continues to influence future initiatives. His departure from the directorship will enable a new leader to bring fresh perspectives while maintaining the strong foundation he has established.

The Burton Blatt Institute, named after a pioneering advocate for disability rights, continues to strive for economic and civic participation for people with disabilities both in the United States and internationally. With Shaheen’s legacy firmly embedded in its operations, BBI is well-positioned to advance its efforts in promoting inclusion and empowerment.

As the BBI community celebrates Shaheen’s contributions, the institute remains committed to its goals of fostering accessible and equitable opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The transition in leadership represents both a moment of reflection on past achievements and a forward-looking approach to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.