From Mentorship to Mission: Lessons in Leadership and Advocacy With Dennis Steiner

Dennis Steiner is the president and CEO of VisionCorps, a nonprofit that provides rehabilitation services and employment opportunities for people who are blind, low vision, or visually impaired.

Dennis joined VisionCorps in 1983 and held a variety of roles with the agency before becoming CEO in 2008. Under his guidance, the organization expanded its facilities across multiple Pennsylvania counties and merged with a sister agency to further its reach.

Dennis has led initiatives to strengthen workforce development, expand community partnerships, and advance employment opportunities for people who are blind. Additionally, he serves on several national boards within the fields of blindness and rehabilitation.

In this episode…

Securing independence and meaningful employment for people who are blind, low vision, or visually impaired requires more than just creating jobs. It takes mentorship, advocacy, and a deep belief in human potential. For over four decades, Dennis Steiner, president and CEO of VisionCorps, has led with that philosophy, transforming lives through opportunity and empowerment.

In this episode of our Mission Driven series, Dennis joins NIB President and CEO Soraya Correa to reflect on his 42-year career and the lessons that shaped his leadership. He discusses how shifting from a caretaking model to a culture of empowerment revolutionized VisionCorps, the critical role of mentorship in developing future leaders, and why embracing failure is vital for growth and innovation.

Dennis also shares his experiences representing the U.S. at the World Blind Union, advocating for greater access to employment and technology, and expanding VisionCorps' reach to serve thousands across Pennsylvania. As he prepares for retirement, he offers thoughtful advice to the next generation of leaders – to listen, learn, and lead with purpose, creativity, and courage.