Board of Directors
PAR's board of directors — individuals in recovery, allies, providers, and stakeholders.
Our board of directors is made up of individuals in recovery, allies, providers, and stakeholders from across the country. Each member has made a commitment to serve as leaders, provide oversight, and ensure that People Advocating Recovery stays at the forefront of the recovery movement.
Tony White
Board President
Jane Hamilton
Vice President
Jason Merrick
Secretary
Andrew Gay
Treasurer
Donna Hillman
Board Member
Charlotte Wethington
Board Member
Melissa Estep
Board Member
Latonya McNeal
Board Member
Crystal Barajas
Board Member
April Williams
Board Member
Michael Barry
Emeritus Board Member
Remembering Mike Barry: a legacy of dedication to recovery advocacy.
Mike Barry was a visionary leader whose passion and dedication to the recovery community have left an indelible mark on the work we do at People Advocating Recovery. As a founding member of PAR, Mike played a pivotal role in connecting the community through events like the Rally for Recovery. His vision was clear: to reduce the negative perceptions associated with addiction recovery and to ensure that individuals in recovery have access to housing, employment, and other necessities without prejudice.
Under Mike's leadership, PAR was established as Kentucky's statewide recovery community organization in 2002. Even after his retirement in June of 2022, Mike remained the Board President until his passing, continuing to inspire and guide us with his wisdom and passion.
One of Mike's greatest contributions was his role as a mentor. He touched the lives of many, not only at PAR but also at other organizations where he served, including The Healing Place in Louisville and Faces and Voices of Recovery. Mike's impact extended beyond his professional achievements; he was a joy to anyone who knew him, always ready with a witty remark or a hilarious thought to brighten our days.
His commitment to leadership development was evident in his work with the Leadership Academy, where since 2005 he taught participants and challenged them to grow both personally and professionally. Outside of his professional life, Mike was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and cousin. His light will continue to shine through the lives he touched.
In his own words: "Great philosophers tell us we are what we believe. Today, I believe that donuts have no calories, and I'm going back for seconds." Mike's humor, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the recovery community will always be remembered and cherished.