Southeast B

Marilyn Trader, MSW serves as the Regional Services Coordinator for the Helen Keller National Center (HKNC), supporting Kentucky, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, and Tennessee. She brings extensive experience in serving individuals who are DeafBlind, Deaf, and hard of hearing through a variety of professional roles dedicated to rehabilitation, mental health, and community engagement.

Prior to joining HKNC, Marilyn worked as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor for DeafBlind consumers with the North Carolina Division of Services for the Blind and as a Mental Health Social Worker for Deaf, hard of hearing, and DeafBlind individuals with Wake County Mental Health Services, where she served for ten years. Earlier in her career, she worked at Gallaudet University’s Graduate School Office and was actively involved in advocacy and public policy initiatives in Washington, D.C. Through partnerships with university staff and national leaders, she presented on cultural diversity and inclusion programs at colleges and universities across the United States.

Marilyn earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Political Science from Illinois State University and a Master of Social Work degree from Gallaudet University, with a focus on the DeafBlind community.

In her role as Regional Services Coordinator, Marilyn works closely with state vocational rehabilitation agencies, DeafBlind projects, community rehabilitation providers, educational partners, and advocacy organizations to strengthen service delivery systems across the region. A key focus of her work is building statewide capacity through interagency collaboration, professional training, strategic partnerships, and the development of innovative programs that expand opportunities for individuals who are DeafBlind. Her efforts have supported the growth of Support Service Provider (SSP) programs, customized employment initiatives, training hubs, field services, and other consumer-centered resources designed to increase independence, employment outcomes, and community inclusion.

Through collaborative projects and partnerships, Marilyn is committed to ensuring that individuals who are DeafBlind have access to high-quality services and supports within their home states, enabling them to achieve their personal, educational, employment, and community living goals.