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MASWM Past President Rob Libera to Retire; Stacey Elster Named New Lafayette Leader
Stacey Elster has been named as the new manager at Lafayette Industires following the announced retirement of Rob Libera, former MASWM President and longtime board member.
Rob has played a key role in Lafayette’s growth and success, always keeping the Mission and People at the center of his work. During his tenure, Lafayette expanded from one workshop to three, overseeing the growth in employment from 185 employees to over 450, becoming the largest single full-time employer of adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the State of Missouri. During Rob’s tenure, Lafayette introduced programs such as STEPUP and the Legacy Program, and strengthened its reputation as a trusted provider of employment and unique program opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities. Rob guided the organization through periods of change and growth with steady leadership and a focus on creating meaningful opportunities.
Rob’s leadership was especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. While Lafayette remained open throughout, many employees were quarantined due to residential policies. Rob launched the “Keeping On, Keeping Connected” initiative, creating training curriculum and meaningful work employees could complete at home to keep their skills sharp. He recorded weekly video updates for months, ensuring employees and families stayed informed and connected to Lafayette and to each other. This effort helped maintain engagement and readiness so employees could return to work confidently when restrictions lifted. Rob also served as the President of the Missouri Association of Sheltered Workshop Managers (MASWM) during the pandemic.
Although Rob is stepping down from his executive role, he will continue to serve as a consultant, supporting Lafayette during this transition and through their 50th anniversary celebration in 2026. Rob will also remain Vice-Chairman of SWIM, and serve MASWM as Past-President. His contributions have left a lasting impact, and we are grateful for his years of service.
Lafayette Industries Names Stacey Elster as Next Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director
The Board of Directors of Lafayette Industries proudly announces the appointment of Stacey Elster as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, effective January 1, 2026. This follows the planned retirement of longtime leader Rob Libera.
After more than two decades of dedicated service, Rob Libera will step down from his role, leaving behind a strong foundation of growth and innovation. In keeping with his vision for Lafayette’s future, Libera recommended Stacey for the role, citing her proven leadership, compassion, and deep commitment to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Following a thorough review process, the Board unanimously extended the offer to Elster, who accepted with enthusiasm.
Stacey joined Lafayette Industries in 2016 and has since served as Chief Program Officer, where she has expanded and enhanced Lafayette’s service offerings through innovative, person-centered programs. She led the creation of Lafayette’s positive behavior supports framework, developed a self-regulation program and sensory room, and launched the award-winning STEPUP employment training program. STEPUP focuses on social cognitive skills and real-world business experience, earning both the Missouri Association of County Developmental Disabilities Services’ “Cutting Edge” Award and The St. Louis Business Journal’s Innovation in Philanthropy Award. Most recently, Stacey spearheaded the development of Lafayette Legacy, the organization’s new day habilitation/retirement activity center, designed to provide meaningful daytime engagement for adults with disabilities.
In addition to her work at Lafayette, Stacey serves on the Missouri Governor’s Council on Disability, where she advises on statewide initiatives that improve access and quality of life for Missourians with disabilities.
Before joining Lafayette, Stacey worked for the Special School District of St. Louis County as a Special Education Teacher and has been an Adjunct Professor at Webster University for more than thirteen years.
“I am deeply honored to lead Lafayette Industries into its next chapter,” said Elster. “This organization has a remarkable history and an even brighter future. I look forward to continuing our mission of empowering individuals with disabilities through meaningful work, skill development, and opportunity.”
The largest single full-time employer of adults with developmental and intellectual disabitlies in Missouri, Lafayette Industries enters its 50th year of service to the community.