Dave Bertsch

In 2003 Dave Bertsch founded and led Grow Sales Marketing Group, until selling the company in 2018. Since then, he has served in various leadership roles in the blind and disability community, focused on advocacy and public policy.

Legally blind since his twenties, Dave has served as a City Councilman and is a current member of Ohio’s Statewide Independent Living Council and the State Library’s Consumer Advisory Committee. Other board positions have included his local Rotary and Library Foundation.

Dave has degrees from The University of Akron and Kent State University, where he met Stephanie, his wife of twenty-five years. They live near Akron, Ohio with their rescue dogs Sadie and Summer.

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Photo of Dave, a light-skinned man, smiling
  • A medium portrait of Katy Beck, a light skinned, blonde haired woman. She is smiling and wearing a large purple necklace and purple blazer.

    Katherine Beck, 25 Years of Service | 1996 to 2021

    June 15th, 2021

    We thank Katy for her commitment to the Lighthouse and its mission. During her 25 years of service on our Board of Trustees, Katy was involved with the initial opening of the Base Supply Center business, participated in the expansion process to our Spokane and South Carolina locations, played a part in hiring the Organization’s first CEO who is blind (Kirk Adams) and was instrumental in the recruitment and hiring of our current President and CEO, Cindy Watson.

  • Close up portrait of Barbara Ross, a light skinned woman with grey hair. She is standing outside, smiling, wearing red lipstick and a scarf.

    Barbara Ross, Foundation Board President | 2015 to 2021

    June 15th, 2021

    It is with hope and confidence that I will be passing the torch of Foundation Board presidency to longtime friend of the Lighthouse, Brad Wiens. I will be remaining on the board, and I am excited to see the fabulous work we have started continue to flourish under Brad’s leadership.

  • A medium portrait of George Abbott, a light skinned man, smiling. He is wearing a suit coat with a blue button up shirt beneath.

    Welcome George Abbott

    June 15th, 2021

    As an advocate for people with disabilities throughout my entire life, I am excited to bring my passion and experience to the Lighthouse team.