STAFF REPORT
John Roppolo of San Marcos has been selected to serve a three-year term as a member of the Disability Rights Texas (DRTx) board of directors.
DRTx, with headquarters in Austin and regional offices throughout the state, is the legal protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities in Texas.
Roppolo is employed as chief investigator for the Hays County Criminal District Attorney’s Office.
During his 28-year law enforcement career he has earned professional honors that include serving on the Investigator’s Board for the Texas District and County Attorney’s Association, as well as on the Criminal Justice Advisory Board for the Capital Area Council of Governments.
Roppolo’ s many years of service include volunteering with nonprofit organizations such as Kiwanis, Optimist Club, Hays Caldwell Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse and various parent-teacher-school organizations. He and his wife, Debbie, are recent recipients of the Parent Volunteers of the Year award from Texas Parent to Parent, a statewide organization. Roppolo and his wife also founded the parent support group Central Texas Autism Network, in 2010.
“In my years of public and community service, I have observed the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities,” said Roppolo. “And as the father, husband and son of family members with disabilities, I am also personally aware of these obstacles and want to be a strong advocate so people can understand and exercise their rights under the law.”
His hard work in the community is appreciated by DRTx.
“I am honored to welcome John to our board of directors,” said DRTx Executive Director Mary Faithfull. “He has a strong personal record of supporting and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities. I believe he brings a unique perspective and will add tremendous value to our board.”
The DRTx board of directors is comprised of 16 members from across Texas. Board members may serve up to two three-year terms. The DRTx board of directors reflects the diverse constituency served by the agency, which is federally mandated to serve individuals with developmental, mental and physical disabilities.
