CEC Supporter Spotlight - Danielle and Mike Kovach: Leading with Purpose
For Danielle and Mike Kovach, joining the Elizabeth Farrell Society was a decision rooted in decades of connection to the field, deep belief in the Council for Exceptional Children’s (CEC) mission, and a family life shaped by the impact of special education.
They shared that their choice was guided by a simple truth: meaningful progress depends on committed people and sustainable resources. “We believe deeply in CEC’s mission and want to help ensure it continues to support individuals with disabilities,” they said. “The reality is that meaningful progress often needs financial backing, and we feel personally connected to this work.”
Their connection touches every aspect of their lives. Among their three sons, one is a special education teacher, one has support needs that CEC has championed for over a century, and one is entering law enforcement, where understanding disabilities is essential for effective interactions. Both parents work as EMTs and witness daily the importance of being prepared for emergencies involving individuals with disabilities. Danielle has dedicated her career to special education, recognizing both the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done. Additionally, through their family-run company committed to giving back, they have long supported organizations that serve individuals with disabilities.
Supporting CEC felt natural due to many connections to the field. Making that support long-lasting required conversation and intention. As Danielle put it, “I’m a teacher, not a millionaire,” and joining a legacy giving society wasn’t a decision they took lightly. Short-term giving wasn’t realistic for their family, but when they looked at their long-term plan, a legacy gift became a sustainable and meaningful path. “Wanting to give was easy, but deciding how to give took more thought,” they shared. “In the end, planning a gift in our will allowed us to pay it forward without creating an adverse effect on our family.”
For the Kovachs, legacy giving is about leading by example. “It’s doing something now that encourages others to step forward in the future. Our hope is that our gift strengthens CEC’s work long after we’re gone and inspires others to join this mission in their own way.”
Their advice to others who care deeply about the field but may hesitate to consider a legacy gift is heartfelt and practical. “Give from your heart but be realistic about what you can do. And remember that giving isn’t only about money. You can support CEC in so many ways: advocate on Capitol Hill, volunteer on a committee, get involved in a division, or be active in your school and community.” Their message is simple: pride in what you can give matters more than guilt about what you cannot.
They also hope members remember that small steps move the mission forward. “Every little bit makes a difference. As long as we stay committed, CEC will continue to make progress. Because of our members and their time, passion, and support, CEC will be here for another hundred years advocating for individuals with disabilities.”
About the Elizabeth Farrell Society
The Elizabeth Farrell Society honors donors who make a lifetime or legacy commitment of $10,000 or more to advance the Council for Exceptional Children’s (CEC) mission. Named for CEC’s founder and a pioneer in special education, the Society ensures that future generations of educators, students, and families benefit from strong advocacy and high-quality professional resources.
Members can fulfill their commitment through cumulative annual gifts, a one-time contribution, or by including CEC in their will or estate plan. The Society recognizes donors who help secure a strong future for the field.
Interested in Making a Lasting Impact?
If you would like to explore a legacy or planned gift to CEC, please contact Claire Jagla, Director of Development, at [email protected].