Maynard hired as Life Styles director

Life Styles Inc., a nonprofit organization serving individuals with disabilities in Benton and Washington counties, has hired Jennifer Maynard as a new executive director.

Maynard was hired following the retirement of Life Styles’ Founder and former Executive Director Carol Hart. Hart, who retired in December 2011 served as the executive director for more than 35 years.

As of January 2012, following an extensive succession plan, Maynard has transitioned into the position and will oversee its three programs—College for Living, Employment Services, and Supported Living.

Maynard was hired at Life Styles in 1992 as a direct service professional. She went on to serve in various capacities at Life Styles, first as a community support specialist, later as the College for Living coordinator and more recently as the assistant director.

Maynard will now be responsible for providing the vision, inspiration and overall direction needed to fulfill the organization’s philosophy, mission, and annual strategic goals. She will also guide the administrative, fiscal, programmatic, family and community relationships for the organization.

“I promise to do my very best to lead Life Styles with the same enthusiasm and dedication that Carol has for the past 36 years.  This organization and the people we serve have been a huge part of my life and I am honored to have this opportunity,” Maynard said in a statement.

Maynard attended college in Texas and earned a master’s degree in counselor education at the University of Arkansas. She and her husband, Phil, live in Fayetteville and have an 11 year old daughter, Helen.