ACBDD Special Edition: Retirement for Wade! Celebrating a Lifetime of Achievement
Below is an excerpt from the ACBDD’s 2026 Special Edition, which is produced in partnership with Ohio University’s E.W. Scripps School of Journalism and The Post. The full edition can be found here.
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By J. Pressley McIlwain
Few stories reflect that mission more fully than that of Wade Bullock, a lifelong member of the ACBDD community whose journey has come full circle.
Recently, Bullock retired from his position as an assistant custodian at the ACBDD’s Beacon School, closing a remarkable chapter that began many years earlier when he first walked through Beacon’s halls as a student. As a child and young adult, Beacon School played a pivotal role in Bullock’s life, and returning there later as a staff member was both meaningful and inspiring.
During his teenage years at Beacon, Bullock was an active participant in the county’s Special Olympics basketball team. One of his proudest memories remains participating in the Special Olympics Division III State Championship in 1989 – a milestone that speaks to his teamwork, dedication, and competitive spirit.
After graduating from Beacon School, Bullock set a clear goal for himself: to work hard, stay busy, and remain engaged in his community. He built a strong employment history, including an impressive 14 years at the Athens Hocking Recycling Center. In 2022, Wade achieved another milestone when he returned to Beacon School – this time as an employee.
“I wanted a really good job,” Wade shared. “I wanted to work at Beacon because I like Beacon the best.”
Heather Clemons, Community Inclusion Coordinator with ACBDD’s Integrate Athens, highlighted Wade’s success in earning the assistant custodial position through a competitive hiring process.
“Wade worked with a Job Developer to update and submit his résumé,” Clemons explained. “He interviewed alongside several candidates and was selected because he was the most qualified. He truly earned that role.”
Once on the job, Bullock became a valued and familiar presence throughout Beacon School. Known for his strong work ethic and positive attitude, he also embraced the school as a place to stay active and connected. Whether swimming, playing basketball, or lending a hand wherever needed, Bullock made the most of every day.
As the physical demands of custodial work became more challenging with age, Bullock thoughtfully made the decision to retire, a choice supported with care and respect by his colleagues.
“I loved the job,” Bullock said. “But it was getting harder for me to move around mopping and cleaning. They made sure to take care of me.”
When Bullock announced his retirement, Beacon School staff and friends came together to celebrate his accomplishments and honor his years of dedication. The well-attended retirement celebration reflected the deep appreciation and friendship he had built with nearly everyone at the school.
Now enjoying retirement, Bullock remains active and engaged, and he finally has more time for his favorite pastime.
When asked what he was most looking forward to, Bullock paused, smiled, and answered simply: “Fishing. I really like to fish.”
Bullock’s story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when opportunity, support, and determination come together. His accomplishments, relationships, and lifelong connection to the ACBDD leave a lasting legacy.