Driven by a deep personal understanding and a commitment to inclusivity, Kristen Edwards steps into the role of President for the Autism Society of Boulder County. As the mother of a child with autism and someone who has navigated life with a lifelong invisible disability, Kristen brings firsthand insight to the challenges and triumphs within the disability community. Holding a Masters degree in Education and a Bachelors in Business Management, she leverages her educational background to champion effective support systems. Residing in Longmont, Colorado, with her husband and two kids, where she also owns an art gallery and studio in downtown Longmont, Kristen has actively used her public platform, including her experience as a former runway model for over 15 years and as a Mrs. Colorado competitor, to advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. Kristen is dedicated to fostering a community where individuals with autism and all people with disabilities are valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. Her leadership aims to enhance resources and promote an inclusive environment for families in Boulder County.

Kelsey Young is an experienced researcher in the field of education and autism, holding a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota in Educational Psychology. Kelsey's research focused on identifying best practices in autism identification, intervention, and contributors to racial/ethnic inequities in autism evaluation practices, with publications in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders (JADD), Journal of Early Intervention, and others. Her passion is using quantitative methods to inform educational policy and practice. She currently oversees national thought leadership research at Curriculum Associates, with studies featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, ABC News, and NPR. Kelsey's dedication to the autism community began early in her career working as a paraprofessional. From there Kelsey's work has been multifaceted, working as a behavior therapist, a behavioral intervention coach, and serving as an autism consultant at the Colorado Department of Education, supporting practitioner autism training around the state. When not at work, Kelsey enjoys climbing and hiking with her partner and their dog.

Allen is an advertising creative director and copywriter. In a wide-ranging career, he has created everything from global TV campaigns to website makeovers to social media posts. Naturally curious, he has learned something interesting from every client he has ever worked with, whether that’s Range Rover, Mobil 1 motor oil, or Velveeta Shells & Cheese. But don’t ask him, because he’ll tell you. Allen has been a part of the Autism Society of Boulder County for over a decade. After attending their fundraisers and seeing the good work they were doing, Allen decided to sign on. His focus is on the marketing side of things, helping produce event materials, social media content, and fundraising. He is proud of the work the ASBC does and how, as a volunteer board, the vast majority of the money we raise goes back into the community.

Cale J. Dunlap is a committed educator and school director based in Boulder County, Colorado. As the Head of School at Brightmont Academy and Altitude Individualized Micro School, Cale specializes in providing personalized mentorship, tutoring, and educational services for students, particularly those on the autism spectrum. He has taught all grade levels both in the U.S. and abroad, with a focus on individualized education for neurodiverse learners, including those on the autism spectrum. Cale is excited to bring his expertise and passion to the Autism Society of Boulder County, where he looks forward to positively impacting the local community.

Josh has been an ASBC board member since 2021. As a young adult on the autism spectrum himself, Josh has a passion for providing social opportunities for young adults on the spectrum. His focus is on running a Discord group and coordinating a social group for young adults. He has worked for VCA Animal Hospitals and the Longmont Humane Society, which reflect another passion of his.

Casey Grothus is not only on the autism spectrum himself, but he also uses his lived experiences to inform others on things that may not be obvious to those who do not have autism. He originally studied to be a teacher in college, but now works for a technology company. His job at that company involves teaching others how to use the different high-tech solutions that the company offers. He is a strong advocate for the inclusion of community members in decisions that affect them. This is especially true for organizations that affect the autism community.

Tim Maxwell is a passionate advocate and seasoned leader with nearly twenty years of experience serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across Colorado. Holding a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a focus on community engagement, Tim brings a deep understanding of the systems and supports that shape the lives of people with IDD. As the founder and CEO of Karuna Care Services, Tim has built an agency known for delivering exceptional residential services grounded in dignity, respect, and inclusion. At the heart of Tim’s work is a deep commitment to expanding community access and engagement for individuals with IDD. He is dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities where every person feels empowered, connected, and valued.

Susan Mullen is a marketing and account management professional with over a decade of experience managing national accounts and leading data-driven email marketing programs. She holds an MBA from the University of Colorado Boulder and a BSBA in Finance from San Diego State University, blending analytical precision with creative marketing strategy. A natural relationship builder and problem solver, Susan thrives in collaborative, inclusive environments and is proud to serve on the ASBC board. As a mother of two boys, one autistic and one neurotypical, she is deeply committed to supporting the autistic community and helping build a more inclusive, welcoming world where all children and families can thrive.

Susan Steckler is a results-oriented communications manager and a dedicated Boulder resident of over six years. Her commitment to the autism community began in Seattle, where she served as Director of Communications for the Washington Autism Alliance and supported the Seattle Children’s Hospital guilds. Inspired by her niece, Susan is a passionate advocate for neurodiverse individuals, ensuring families have the resources they need to thrive. Beyond her work with ASBC, Susan is a professional artist and frequently volunteers with the YWCA and local shelters. In her free time, Susan is an avid mountain adventurer.