Jane Falls Steps Up to be D5110 PolioPlus Chair

We are thrilled to welcome Assistant Governor and Past President, Jane Falls, of the Springfield Rotary Club as the incoming D5110 PolioPlus Chair. Her reasons to serve in this capacity run deep.  Please thank Jane for her commitment and passion for service to humanity.

Jane’s older sister contracted polio just before the vaccine was available.  Her younger brother came home at birth with casts on each tiny leg and by the age of 3, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.  Her parents and grandparents were educators. Not surprisingly, Jane followed their example of service and giving.

Jane’s career centered on teaching people with disabilities and their families to live, work and play in the community first in Eugene School District, then at UO College of Education. She helped state departments of education implement special education laws throughout the US and Pacific jurisdictions (think Guam, Samoa, the islands of Micronesia). During the last 3 years of her career, she served the Springfield school district as Principal of Gateways High School in Springfield and also set up a new online program for K-12 students. Jane has trained people with disabilities, families, and educators around the world.

Jane is married to Alan Kelly who recently retired from the UO Biology Department and is now a builder. Daughter, Hannah Joy, has a Master’s in Peace and Conflict Resolution. Step-son, Austin is a sound engineer in LA. Jane loves to hike, backpack, rock climbing, dance and serve her community.