Colonel Dale M Engstrom (pictured) has had a major role in the development and implementation of new services for persons with developmental disabilities. His civic commitment during the 60’s and 70’s led to his election to the State Legislature. He further helped write and successfully advocate for Tennessee’s “Right to Education” Law mandating that systems provide free and equal education for school-age children with special needs.

In the field of Developmental Disabilities, Col. Engstrom was appointed to the Governor’s Advisory Council on Mental Retardation, was the first Chairman of Tennessee’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, spearheaded the State of Tennessee’s Comprehensive Plan for Services for People with Developmental Disabilities, and served as Chairman of the Regional Planning Council on Mental Retardation.

In addition to his leadership in the disability community, Colonel Engstrom served our nation by his many years of distinguished service in both World War II and the Korean War. He has served as President of the Chattanooga Flyers Club and the Chattanooga Metropolitan Planning Council, and as President and District Lt. Governor of the Chattanooga Civitan Club.