Autism Council
Created in 2012, the Autism Council is charged with overseeing Michigan's Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) State Plan. The Council will implement, monitor, and update the Michigan ASD State Plan which will provide for comprehensive, lifespan supports to individuals with ASD and their families through access to information and resources, coordination of services, and implementation of evidence-based practices.
Home page and meeting informationContact information
Mary Luchies
State Administrative Manager
Department
DHHS
Phone
517-512-0561
Statute
Executive Order 2018-12Current members
Rachelle Vartanian
Plymouth
Term ends 09/30/2028
Seat represented
Individuals who have ASD or individuals who have a family member who has ASD
Colleen Allen
Royal Oak
Term ends 09/30/2028
Seat represented
A non-profit organization serving those with ASD
Jacob Daar
Marquette
Term ends 09/30/2028
Seat represented
An individual representing state universities
Neelkamal Soares
Portage
Term ends 09/30/2028
Seat represented
A physician representing health care providers servicing individuals with ASD
Dana Lasenby
Southfield
Term ends 09/30/2027
Seat represented
Pre-paid inpatient health plans or local community mental health service programs
Francisco Vaca
Potterville
Term ends 09/30/2027
Seat represented
Individuals with ASD or that have a family member with ASD
Amy Matthews
Grand Haven
Term ends 09/30/2027
Seat represented
State funded intiatives
VACANT
Term ends 09/30/2026
Seat represented
The Superintendent of Public Instruction, or his or her designee, from within the Department of Education
VACANT
Term ends 09/30/2026
Seat represented
Children’s Services Agency - MDHHS
Emily DeLaGarza
Term ends 09/30/2026
Seat represented
DIFS
VACANT
Term ends 09/30/2026
Seat represented
MDHHS Representative
Krista Orellana (Boe)
East Grand Rapids
Term ends 09/30/2029
Seat represented
Certified behavior analysts
Steven Tunnicliff
Flushing
Term ends 09/30/2027
Seat represented
Intermediate school districts and local schools
Raymie Postema
Marshall
Term ends 09/30/2029
Seat represented
An individual representing Recipient Rights for the public system