Pine Tree Society Board Spotlight: Ryan Oakes

Read below to find out why Pine Tree Society board member, Ryan Oakes, dedicates himself to our organization.

When asked what feels particularly meaningful about Pine Tree Society’s 90 year milestone, he said “The first 90 years of service is an incredible accomplishment. Let’s continue to build an organization to serve the next generation of Mainers. I am grateful to be a part of a board who works towards this goal of expanding our impact throughout the community.”

A Conversation with Ryan Oakes

When did you join the Pine Tree Society Board, and what drew you to its mission? I have been involved with Pine Tree Society for more than 30 years; first as a camp counselor for four summers during college, and now as a board member since 2024. I have always felt connected to the mission to create a fully accessible and inclusive experience for children and adults with disabilities throughout the State of Maine.

Do you serve on any committees? If so, which ones? I currently serve on the Program Committee.

Why did you choose to focus on those particular committees? There are many ways that Pine Tree Society can support people in need across the state. The Program Committee allows me to work with my fellow board members to help make certain we have the tools for our existing programming and support for new programming.

What unique perspective do you bring to the board? My experience as a Pine Tree Camp counselor, combined with my 30-year career working in education and government, creates a unique ability to see different perspectives on how we can support the mission of Pine Tree Society.

Where do you work, and what is your job title? I work at Accenture, a large 800,000-person consulting firm, where I run the Global Public Sector practice.

What is meaningful to you about Pine Tree Society? Pine Tree Society taught me to appreciate the gifts I have been given and reminded me of my responsibility to help those who might not be as fortunate.