“Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”
This famous quote from St. Francis of Assisi could easily describe the life and career path of Partners In Progress’ Executive Director, K. Irene Morgan.
Irene was born and raised in the Philadelphia suburb of Narberth and landed at Mansfield University in the late ‘70s. A Social Work major, she received her bachelor’s degree and then completed graduate work in Special Education. A surprise to those that knew her, she remained in Mansfield, married, opened her own day care business and began raising a family.
Irene’s journey was redefined in 1985 with the birth of her first child, Michael, who was born with Down syndrome and several serious health issues.
At that time there were few local resources or parent support groups so Irene and her family did what was necessary by creating those needed supports. When Irene discovered her son would not be able to go to the local elementary school with his peers she helped change the approach the school district had towards children with different abilities. A champion for the benefits of inclusion, Michael was educated at his local school surrounded by peers both with and without disabilities. Learning there was no local organized parent support group, Irene gathered parents which turned into the local Special Olympics Committee, as well as a support group. She was Manager of that committee for more than 20 years. Irene joined the BOD of the newly formed Partners In Progress in 1995 assisting with bringing displaced workers with disabilities back to Tioga County. By 1997, she was employed by Partners In Progress developing several school to work programs and a summer day camp for students with and without disabilities. In 2000 she became the Executive Director and currently holds that title.
A dedicated community supporter, Irene has spent years volunteering for the community she adores through civic groups such as Jaycees, Lions Club, Special Olympics, Chamber of Commerce and currently serves on the BOD of Visit Potter Tioga and the Betterment Organization of Mansfield. A Mountie through and through, Irene is an active MU alum hosting students from a variety of Majors at PIP and at her home for various events.
Irene has been recognized throughout the years for her work and community service as an outstanding leader and community contributor.
- 1997- Outstanding Young Alumni (MU)
- 2014 Rod C. Kelchner President’s Award “presented for excellence in leadership and community involvement” (MU)
- 2016 – Presidential Coin for Excellence (MU)
- 2018 – Community Leadership Award (Rehabilitation & Community Providers Association)
- 2020 – Finalist for WETM’s Remarkable Woman Award