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 information

Statute

Executive Order 2018-12

Current members

Rachelle Vartanian

Plymouth

Member

Term ends 09/30/2028

Seat represented

Individuals who have ASD or individuals who have a family member who has ASD

Krista Boe

Grand Rapids

Member

Term ends 09/30/2025

Seat represented

Certified behavior analysts

Brian DeBano

Laingsburg

Member

Term ends 09/30/2025

Seat represented

The Designee of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

Jenny Piatt

Chelsea

Member

Term ends 09/30/2025

Seat represented

The Michigan Rehabilitation Services and employment services and designated by the Director of the Department

Raymie Postema

Marshall

Member

Term ends 09/30/2025

Seat represented

Recipient Rights for the public system

Colleen Allen

Royal Oak

Member

Term ends 09/30/2028

Seat represented

A non-profit organization serving those with ASD

Jacob Daar

Marquette

Member

Term ends 09/30/2028

Seat represented

An individual representing state universities

Neelkamal Soares

Portage

Member

Term ends 09/30/2028

Seat represented

A physician representing health care providers servicing individuals with ASD

Dana Lasenby

Southfield

Member

Term ends 09/30/2027

Seat represented

Pre-paid inpatient health plans or local community mental health service programs

Francisco Vaca

Potterville

Member

Term ends 09/30/2027

Seat represented

Individuals with ASD or that have a family member with ASD

Amy Matthews

Grand Haven

Member

Term ends 09/30/2027

Seat represented

State funded intiatives

Rebecca McIntyre

Member

Term ends 09/30/2026

Seat represented

The Superintendent of Public Instruction, or his or her designee, from within the Department of Education

Jeanette Scheid

Member

Term ends 09/30/2026

Seat represented

Children’s Services Agency - MDHHS

Emily DeLaGarza

Member

Term ends 09/30/2026

Seat represented

DIFS

Phil Kurdunowicz

Member

Term ends 09/30/2026

Seat represented

MDHHS Representative

Steven Tunnicliff

Flushing

Member

Term ends 09/30/2027

Seat represented

Intermediate school districts and local schools