Challenge Unlimited Announces Board Leadership Transition: Joni Lombardo Succeeds Tom Morrissey as Chairperson

After a decade of dedicated service, Tom Morrissey is stepping down as Challenge Unlimited’s Chairperson, with Joni Lombardo assuming the role effective September 15, 2025.
Tom Morrissey joined the Challenge Unlimited board in 2015 and was elected Chair in 2018. During his tenure, Morrissey provided steady leadership through a period of remarkable organizational growth, including the expansion of operations into eight states and a strengthened commitment to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities nationwide.
Reflecting on his time as Chairperson, Morrissey shared, “It has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve in this capacity. I am deeply grateful for the trust and support of my board colleagues and the community. Together, we have worked to create meaningful opportunities and positive impact for those we serve.”
Charlotte Hammond, CEO of Challenge Unlimited, expressed her appreciation: “Tom’s dedication and commitment to our mission have been invaluable. His leadership has helped guide Challenge Unlimited through important milestones, and his impact is reflected in the lives of the individuals we support every day. On behalf of our staff, partners, and board, I extend our deepest gratitude for Tom’s years of service.”
Morrissey will continue to support the board in an advisory capacity through 2026, assisting newly elected Chairperson Joni Lombardo. Lombardo, who also serves as Vice Chair of affiliate Project CU in St. Louis, brings a strong background in sales and operational leadership, as well as a personal passion for disability advocacy. Her leadership is expected to build on the strong foundation established by Morrissey and further advance the organization’s mission.
Beyond his work with Challenge Unlimited, Morrissey has been actively involved in the Alton community, serving on the board of Marquette Catholic High School and as a trustee at St. Peter and Paul Church, where he also held roles as parish council president and board member.
As Challenge Unlimited enters this new chapter, the organization expresses its deep appreciation to Tom Morrissey for his decade of dedicated service and welcomes Joni Lombardo as the new Chairperson of the Board of Directors.




