About CLB

Independence is our vision.

We provide a variety of lifestyle-changing services to people who are blind or visually impaired in the DMV to achieve their highest level of economic independence and quality of life, regardless of their ability to pay.

  • 1900 founded in Washington, D.C.
  • 125+ years of service
  • DMV serving D.C., Maryland & Virginia
A Black man who is blind walks confidently along a tree-lined park path using a long white cane, accompanied by a woman beside him on a bright spring day.
Our mission

Serving people of all ages who are blind or visually impaired for over 125 years

Since 1900, Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind has been dedicated to helping the population impacted by blindness or visual impairment in the greater Washington region overcome the challenges of vision loss.

Our work enables people of all ages who are blind or visually impaired to remain independent, active, and productive in our society.

Our people

Meet the Team

The people behind CLB’s programs and services.

  • Rebecca Liko

    President and Chief Executive Officer

  • Zachary Brewer

    Chief Operating Officer

  • Vlad Mitrofanov

    Chief Financial Officer

  • Nina Ancharski

    Director of Marketing & Strategy

  • Jocelyn Hunter

    Director of Community Advocacy and Engagement

  • Rahel Mekonnen

    Director of Client Services

  • Ronald Lenard

    Director of Government and Commercial Relations

  • Preston Hames

    Administrative Manager

  • Peter Nguamsanith

    Assistive Technology Manager

  • Kathy Gross

    Assistant Manager of Low Vision Services

  • Chrichelle Brown

    Information and Referral Specialist

  • Annie Linda

    Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist and Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist

  • Antonio Williams

    Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist

Wherever you are in your journey, we are here.

Reach out to talk with a specialist who listens, or help open the world for someone who is blind or losing their vision.