The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc), a nonprofit committed to transforming lives for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), and Laura Austin, Board Chair, are pleased to announce the addition of Matthew Teffeau, government affairs manager with Choptank Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative, not-for-profit, member-owned, electric distribution co-op located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore serving over 53,000 members, to the Board of Directors, effective March 25, 2021.

Matthew’s extensive legislative experience, coupled with his community affairs, grassroots organization, and nonprofit organization skills, will enhance The Arc’s current advocacy efforts as it works to increase equity and access for people with I/DD.

“We are proud to welcome Matthew to The Arc’s board,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO, The Arc. “Matthew has a strong commitment to the Annapolis and Eastern Shore region, and he will be instrumental in The Arc’s growth and continued work in championing equity and access for the people we support.”

After graduating from Salisbury University in 2010, he worked as a legislative assistant in Maryland’s 1st congressional district, addressing agricultural and natural resource issues. Matthew’s ability to build strong relationships with Maryland farmers led to a career with the Maryland Farm Bureau as assistant director of government relations. At the bureau, he advocated for Maryland farmers, while working across party lines to pass legislation.

“As a life-long Marylander and native of Preston on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, I look forward to working with fellow board members to continue advancing The Arc’s mission,” said Matthew. “The Arc’s work on behalf of residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities on our Eastern shore and its surrounding support area is vital to ensuring they are visual and valued members and advocating for equal rights for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”

Matthew later joined the Maryland Department of Agriculture under the Hogan administration. For three legislative sessions, he had a 100 percent departmental bill passage rate. Last year, The Daily Record included Matthew on its 2020 VIP List, which recognizes Maryland leaders 40 years old or younger for their outstanding professional accomplishments, civic involvement, and commitment to inspiring change.

In his spare time, Matt likes to enjoy the outdoors, go hiking, playing golf and recreational soccer, and most importantly, spending time with his two-year-old daughter Harriet.