In this episode, Lauren speaks with Kim McKay, Assistant Secretary of Programs for the Maryland Department of Disabilities, whose career has been shaped by both professional experience and personal purpose. Although she grew up around medicine, Kim knew early on that her path was not clinical. While working in healthcare administration, her son’s autism diagnosis became a turning point that led her to focus on improving systems of support for families navigating disability services. From leading nonprofit initiatives to developing innovative employment and education programs, Kim has dedicated her career to making complex systems more accessible and effective. Recognized as one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women in 2025, Kim shares her deep knowledge, hard-earned insight, and commitment to building better pathways for individuals with disabilities and the families who support them.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-mckay-9242b994/

https://mdod.maryland.gov/Pages/Home.aspx

https://mcie.org