The Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB) is proud to announce that Alabama School for the Blind alumnus Jonathan Sherbert has been named Executive Director of Alabama Industries for the Blind (AIB).
With more than 20 years of experience in finance and management, Sherbert brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to this role. His distinguished career includes serving as a senior accountant for Cahaba Government Benefit Administrators, an audit manager for Yeager and Boyd CPA, and an accounting manager for Melior, Inc. Since joining AIDB in 2012, Sherbert has held multiple key leadership positions, including Director of Purchasing, Accounting Manager, Director of Finance and Accounting, and most recently, Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Since October 2024, he has also served as Interim Executive Director of AIB, providing steadfast leadership and continuity to the organization.
“AIDB is proud to witness one of our distinguished graduates assume this pivotal position at Alabama Industries for the Blind,” remarked Dr. Dennis Gilliam, President of AIDB. “Jonathan brings the lived experience of a successful professional with vision difference to AIB. His commitment to AIDB, combined with a forward-thinking vision for the future, will be instrumental as he drives continuous growth and amplifies the organization’s impact, ensuring its continued excellence.”
Sherbert will continue in his role as CFO until a successor is appointed, at which time, he will assist in the transition before fully assuming his duties as Executive Director of AIB.
“Mr. Sherbert has a deep understanding of AIDB and AIB and has already used his insight and expertise to make considerable improvements with our processes, production, and partnerships,” said Chief Adult Programs Officer Jessica L. Edmiston. “I am excited about the future of AIB under Jonathan’s leadership and look forward to working alongside him, our leadership team, and our wonderful AIB employees to meet and exceed expectations on a state and national level.”
A proud graduate of the University of Montevallo with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, Sherbert further honed his expertise through the National Industries for the Blind (NIB) Business Management Training program, taught by George Mason University.
“It is an honor to be named the Executive Director of the Alabama Industries for the Blind. This moment is deeply meaningful to me, not just as a personal achievement, but as a full-circle journey that began when I was three years old, as a student at the Alabama School for the Blind,” stated Sherbert. “My connection goes beyond my personal experience as a student; I come from a proud military family who served our country with honor. They all wore neckties that were made right here at AIB. That connection reminds me every day of the purpose behind our mission. We do not just manufacture products; we serve, we empower, and we create opportunities that make a real difference in people’s lives. I am excited for what the future holds.”
AIDB and AIB congratulate Jonathan Sherbert on this well-earned appointment and look forward to his continued leadership in advancing opportunities for individuals who are blind and visually impaired.
