I have been with Options and Advocacy for 11 years. First as Technical Assistant for Child and Family connections and then as Program Manager for the Autism Resource Center. Prior to my work at O&A I attended Elmhurst College (Bachelor's degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 2001 and Masters of Education in 2003). I went on to teach a self-contained Early childhood Special Education classroom.  I absolutely loved teaching, and yet as I began to grow my own family I decided to take the steps necessary to become a certified in home Developmental Therapist for the IL Early Intervention system.  My husband and I now have a crew of four amazing children (8, 11, 14, & 16).

 

I believe that McHenry County is an excellent community to live in and raise a family.  There is a strong group of like-minded people here who care about developing needed services and programing.  Raising my family in a place that cares about inclusivity and equality is important. 

 

I grew up with a brother who was diagnosed at a young age with Costello Syndrome.  My family benefited from agencies like Options and Advocacy.  In many ways I feel like my life has come full circle, and I am excited to now have this opportunity as Executive Director of Options and Advocacy.

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