Petrolia resident Lori Richardson named new supports director for LCDS

After starting as a high school co-op student in Watford over two decades ago, Lori Richardson has been appointed to the Senior Leadership Team at Lambton County Developmental Services. She succeeds Jill Johnston, who is retiring from the role of Residential Supports Director this March.

Lambton County Developmental Services (LCDS) has appointed lifelong local resident Lori Richardson as the organization’s new Supports Director. Richardson, who currently lives in Petrolia, will join the Senior Leadership Team in March 2026 following a competitive recruitment process.

Richardson’s history with the agency spans 26 years, beginning in 2000 when she served as a high school co-op student in Watford. Over the last two decades, she has held various roles including frontline support worker, team leader, and most recently, Quality Enhancement Manager.

Executive Director Nick Salaris noted that Richardson’s leadership is grounded in a deep understanding of the people and communities the agency serves. He cited her commitment to quality and her long history with the organization as key factors in her appointment to the leadership team.

During her tenure as Quality Enhancement Manager, Richardson guided the agency through multiple accreditation surveys and led efforts to strengthen reporting and risk mitigation. Her new role comes as the organization continues its mission of empowering people with developmental disabilities across Sarnia-Lambton.

The transition follows the retirement of Jill Johnston, who has served as the Residential Supports Director since 2021. The agency expressed appreciation for Johnston’s service as they prepare for this new chapter under Richardson’s leadership.

Richardson grew up in Warwick Township and now resides in Petrolia with her husband and two children. For over 70 years, LCDS has worked to foster inclusive communities for residents throughout the region.