Lachelle Smith

Lachelle Smith, MS, CVRT, LVT is the Program Director and Associate Professor of the Personnel Preparation Program in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) at Salus University. As a member of the low vision and blind community, she has over 20 years of professional experience as an educator, rehabilitation practitioner, and advocate for the Disability community.

Lachelle is dedicated to educating and training of consumers who have disabilities, as well as for individuals pursuing careers in working with consumers who are blind, visually impaired, and those with additional disabilities. She is the Sole Proprietor of InSights VRS, her private practice providing training and consulting services to consumers and administrators of state, private, and nonprofit agencies serving individuals with disabilities. She is also the Founder and President of Blind Blessings, Inc., a nonprofit committed to enhancing the lives and maximizing the opportunities for those with disabilities to live safely and independently and to remain or become successful members of their community.

Lachelle’s life work is focused on eliminating barriers to successful and quality filled lives of those with disabilities.

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Portrait of Lachelle, a dark-skinned woman earring a colourful print blouse and purple blazer, smiling and standing outside in front of trees
  • A portrait of Brad Wiens, a light skinned, grey haired man wearing a grey suit.

    Thank You to Our Donors

    June 15th, 2021

    We are incredibly thankful to our generous donors and community members for making a difference in the lives of people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities every day.

  • 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.