Lakesha Ruth Named Vice President of Program Supports for Pathlight

SPRINGFIELD — Lakesha Ruth, an educator and advocate within the disability and human-services field, recently joined Pathlight’s leadership team as vice president of Program Supports.

Pathlight, established in 1952 and headquartered in Springfield, is a pioneer in services for children, teens, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the four counties of Western Mass.

Ruth started her career at Pathlight four years ago in the Family-Based Living program, working first as a manager and then as a director of the program. In her new role, she will oversee the programs and services that support the people of Pathlight, including training, quality, and clinical and behavioral supports.

“We are pleased to have Lakesha join Pathlight’s executive leadership team as we navigate through and beyond the pandemic,” Executive Director Ruth Banta said. “She brings a wealth of experience, skill, and knowledge that will ensure that we are able to fulfill our mission in good times and bad.”

Ruth says she has been drawn to career paths centered around helping others. She attended Lincoln University for her bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education and then continued her education by obtaining a degree in organizational leadership and management from Central Connecticut State University and Springfield College. Her clinical background is in marriage and family therapy.

Aside from witnessing the impact that her work has on the community that Pathlight serves, Ruth’s favorite aspect about working for the organization is interacting with the people that make up the heart and soul of Pathlight.

“Being able to be part of a team to see someone grow and see someone meet their needs is just an amazing feeling,” she said. “When you have that one person who is able to have that breakout moment and be a part of their journey, it is so rewarding.”