CIRCleville, OH — The Pickaway County Board of Developmental Disabilities formally announced the resignation of Superintendent Marie Wilbanks during a public meeting, bringing an end to an independent investigation into allegations that led to her administrative leave earlier this summer [cite: This evening, the Board met in public session and formally announced the resignation of Marie Wilbanks as Superintendent., Mrs. Wilbanks was placed on paid administrative leave following a special Board meeting on Monday, May 18, 2026., She remained on leave while an independent law firm, retained by the Board, investigated allegations it had received.].
Wilbanks submitted her resignation on August 3, 2026, which was accepted by the board at that time. While details were previously disclosed via internal email communications, the board’s public session allowed leadership to present the timeline and outcome directly to the community.
Findings of Outside Investigation
Wilbanks had been placed on paid administrative leave on May 18, 2026, following a special board meeting. The board subsequently hired an independent law firm to review the allegations.
Addressing community concerns, board officials clarified the scope of the inquiry:
- Client Safety: The allegations did not involve the safety or well-being of the individuals served by the board.
- Staff Involvement: No other County Board employees were involved in the allegations.
- Scope: The matters investigated were largely outside the scope of official board operations, though outside counsel was retained to evaluate any issue that could impact the superintendent’s responsibilities [cite: They concerned matters largely outside the scope of official Board operations., The Board nonetheless considered it important to review any allegation that could bear on the responsibilities of the Superintendent position, and retained outside counsel to do so thoroughly and objectively.].
Following the completion of the investigation, Wilbanks tendered her resignation on August 3.
Interim Leadership & Search for Successor
To maintain continuity of care, the board appointed Susan Thompson as Interim Superintendent on May 21, 2026. Thompson, who also serves as the Superintendent of the Madison County Board of Developmental Disabilities, has agreed to remain in the interim position through September while a search for permanent leadership is conducted.
The board reassured families and staff that all programs, services, and operations remain fully operational without interruption.
“We understand that a situation like this can create uncertainty, and we remain committed to ensuring this organization continues to operate in a professional, stable, and mission-focused manner,” the Board shared in a statement. “We are grateful for the trust, patience, and partnership of our staff, families, and community as we stay focused on serving the individuals and families of Pickaway County.”
