Outstanding Alumnus 2013

Deborah "Lee" Yount Named Outstanding Jefferson State Alumnus

Jefferson State’s 2013 Outstanding Alumnus Award was presented to Deborah “Lee” Yount. Lee is the President and CEO of Glenwood, Inc. where she has served as president for 30 years. Lee is a tremendous leader in healthcare and in our community. She has a distinguished record of service and has made life better for many Alabamians. 

Lee was born in Birmingham and graduated from Ramsay High School in 1971. She earned an associate degree as a mental health technician from Jefferson State in 1973. She continued her education at UAB and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Education with a specialization in Developmental Disabilities Management. She has over 40 years experience in supporting people with autism and behavioral disorders.

After college, she served as the Director of a program for troubled youth and as a counselor and assistant director of a substance abuse treatment facility. A little over 30 years ago, she interviewed for the position of executive director at Glenwood, Incorporated. Glenwood, Incorporated is a private, non-profit organization that provides treatment, education and research in the area of children’s mental health. During her interview, Glenwood board members had a big concern… they were impressed with her education and professionalism, but they wondered how can they hire someone so young for the executive director position. They made a terrific decision and hired her, and she has been there ever since.

When she started, Glenwood had 35 staff members, two programs, and served 19 children. Today, Glenwood has 380 staff members, more than 20 programs around the Alabama, and serves more than 8,000 people each year. The growth under her leadership is obvious. What might not be so obvious are the many professionals who got their start at Glenwood under her leadership, and are now working in their field to help others in their own communities.

Jefferson State’s 2013 Outstanding Alumnus is certified as a Fellow by the American College of Healthcare and is also certified as a Behavioral Healthcare Executive. She has served in numerous leadership roles on Alabama task forces and groups devoted to improving the quality of life of individuals with autism, mental illness, and behavioral health disorders. She is a leader and she leads by serving others. She exemplifies integrity, empathy, stewardship, and commitment. She inspires others to share in her passion and Glenwood’s vision of creating a better life for families and our community.

All of us at Jefferson State want to say “thank you” to our 2013 Outstanding Alumnus Award winner for her service, leadership, and her spirit of giving back to others.