Mission & History

The National Center for Learning Disabilities' (NCLD) improves the lives of all people with learning difficulties and disabilities by empowering parents, enabling young adults, transforming schools, and creating policy and advocacy impact. 

Our Vision: We envision a society in which every individual who struggles to learn possesses the academic, social and emotional skills needed to succeed in school, at work and in life.

Our History: Founded in 1977 by Pete and Carrie Rozelle as the Foundation for Children with Learning Disabilities, the organization provided leadership, public awareness and grants to support research and innovative practices in learning disabilities.

In 1989 the organization changed its name to the National Center for Learning Disabilities and expanded its mission and scope of work. Anne Ford assumed the role of Chairman of the Board at the time and led the organization for 12 years.

In 2001, John G. Gantz, Jr., past president of Argonaut Insurance Company, succeeded Mrs. Ford. In 2004 the leadership of NCLD was passed to Fred Poses, former chairman and chief executive officer of Trane Inc.

Throughout its history, NCLD has been guided by a passionate commitment to promoting the success and dignity of individuals affected by learning disabilities, as defined in our Credo:

NCLD Credo

Let no children be demeaned,
or have their wonder diminished,
because of our ignorance or inactivity;

Let no adults be deprived of discovery,
because we lack the resources to
discover their learning needs;

Let neither children nor adults — ever —
doubt themselves or their minds because
we are unsure of our commitment.