The grand opening celebration of the Frietsch Residence was held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, with several Board members (Mr. Monteil, President; Dr. Simmonds, First Vice-President; Mr. Parris, Second Vice-President and Mrs. Becker, board member), executives, and senior staff in attendance. A highlight of the event was the presentation by Mr. Monteil of IRI’s first Humanitarian Award to Mrs. Joan Frietsch, recognizing her lifelong advocacy and dedication to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Dr. Louis reflected on the journey and thanked a number of folks while particularly highlighting the efforts and dedication of Ana Koessler, IRI Chief Administrative Officer, in identifying the site, supervising construction and delivering a fully functioning home; Susan McGrath, Chief Compliance and Clinical Officer in tastefully appointing the home; and Dr. Corrigan, Chief Service Officer and Chief Psychologist in leading the launch. Dr. Corrigan invited all in attendance to join her in congratulating and toasting Mrs. Frietsch.
Construction at the Frietsch Residence was completed in early October, and the program successfully completed its DQI and OFPC pre-opening surveys on October 27, 2026, receiving official certification that same day. Residents are projected to begin moving into their new home in early November with all seven individuals expected to be fully settled by the first week of December. This milestone represents the successful completion of a major capital project and an important expansion of IRI’s residential services.
