President and CEO Mike May
With an impressive resume that spans 40-plus years, and includes many examples of innovative achievements, Mike May will begin his new career as President and CEO of The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. on April 3rd, 2017.
Mike received his Master of International Affairs from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and began his career with the Central Intelligence Agency as a Political Analyst. Varying positions in the public and private sector have provided him opportunities to put his stamp in technological advancements such as: the implementation of automated teller machines and wire transfer systems, developing the world’s first Laser Turntable for worldwide distribution, and being instrumental in the development of a talking GPS Navigation System, along with founding the Sendero Group LLC in 1999. With awards and accolades for his personal and professional work, he has a proven track record as a pioneer and innovator in the technology arena, many of which continue to benefit people who are blind.
Mike is an avid skier, holding the speed skiing record in downhill for a totally blind person at 65 MPH and has won six international medals. In 2010, he was inducted to the U.S. Association of Blind Athletes Hall of Fame, the same year he was honored to be selected as a member of the President Obama White House delegation to the Paralympics.
President and CEO Mike May and Jonnie at an event
“My personal and professional life has been full of exciting challenges and accomplishments from speed skiing to meeting four presidents. I have been looking for the next chapter in my life where I can innovate and make a difference. The Lighthouse is definitely an opportunity to build on a promise I made to President Obama to facilitate the employment of people who are blind or visually impaired. I look forward to working with the dynamic communities we serve in this effort.”
We are excited to see what Mike May will do next as he leads the Lighthouse over the threshold of our one hundredth year and into a new centennial. His new guide dog Jonnie, a female Golden Retriever, will certainly be a welcomed new addition to the Lighthouse community.
