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Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired is proud to announce Scott J. Richey as its 2026 Board Chair. The passing of the gavel took place during the January 2026 Board of Directors Annual Meeting, marking a meaningful leadership transition as the organization prepares for the 95 Years & Beyond Gala, a black‑tie celebration lighting the way toward its centennial year.
Richey brings eight years of board service to the position. His involvement with Miami Lighthouse began over a decade ago through Northern Trust and the Rotary Club of Miami, where he first volunteered at a Lighthouse Music Center service project. Since then, his commitment has grown into a family effort. His wife, Karla Richey, publisher of Miami Kids Magazine, serves as Treasurer of Miami Lighthouse Academy LLC, a subsidiary of Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired — a role that speaks to their shared passion for supporting the organization’s mission.
“This organization has given so much to the community,” said Richey. “Serving as Board Chair is an honor, and I’m looking forward to helping Miami Lighthouse continue creating opportunities for people of all ages who are blind or visually impaired.”
The transition reflects continued momentum as the organization advances its 95TH Anniversary Campaign—an ambitious effort to raise $9.5 million to expand programs serving infants, children, adults, and seniors—and prepares for the 95 Years & Beyond Gala, a black‑tie celebration lighting the way toward its centennial year.
Today, Miami Lighthouse serves more than 35,000 program participants annually, providing comprehensive programs designed to promote independence, learning, and opportunity. Its Miami Lighthouse Academy offers an inclusive educational environment from early
childhood through third grade, creating a unique space where blind, visually impaired, and sighted students learn side by side in a braille-rich setting using evidence‑based methods.
The Blind Babies & Children Program supports families of infants and toddlers from birth to age five with free home visits, developmental playgroups, and guidance to help children meet early milestones while empowering caregivers.
Miami Lighthouse also operates the region’s first dedicated blind soccer mini‑pitch, giving children and young adults who are blind or visually impaired the opportunity to develop motor skills, teamwork, and confidence. The organization is working with community partners to expand this inclusive sports offering to Miami‑Dade schools.
For older youth and adults, the Job Readiness Program provides essential career training, including assistive technology instruction, resume development, interview practice, and workplace skills, helping participants gain the confidence and tools needed to secure meaningful employment.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Scott as our new Board Chair,” said Virginia Jacko, President & CEO. “His dedication, heart, and steady leadership come at a perfect moment as we continue expanding programs for babies, children, teens, and adults. Together, we’ll continue proving that it is possible to see without sight™.”
