{"id":123,"date":"2016-09-19T18:45:15","date_gmt":"2016-09-19T18:45:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/?page_id=123"},"modified":"2026-05-11T17:10:23","modified_gmt":"2026-05-11T22:10:23","slug":"board","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/index.php\/board\/","title":{"rendered":"Board"},"content":{"rendered":"

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ overflow-x=”auto” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”-45px|auto||auto||” custom_padding=”49px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/WisMap.png” disabled_on=”on|off|off” _builder_version=”4.16″ width=”100%” max_width=”100%” height=”366px” max_height=”479px” custom_padding=”|21px||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_cta title=”Our Board” button_text=”Join the Board” _builder_version=”4.16″ header_text_color=”#000000″ body_text_align=”left” body_text_color=”#000000″ body_line_height=”2.3em” use_background_color=”off” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”41px” button_text_color=”#FFFFFF” button_bg_color=”#79cc8c” button_use_icon=”off” text_orientation=”left” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Members of the Board come from around the state and are appointed by the Governor to serve four-year terms.\u00a0<\/strong>At least 60% of the membership consists of people with developmental disabilities or their family members. The remaining 40% includes representatives from state agencies, providers and other organizations within the disability community.<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_cta][et_pb_button button_url=”\/index.php\/become-a-board-member\/” button_text=”Join the Board” button_alignment=”left” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”19px” button_text_color=”#FFFFFF” button_bg_color=”#79cc8c” button_icon_placement=”left” background_layout=”dark” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#ededed” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ use_custom_gutter=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial author=”Sydney Badeau” job_title=”Chair” company_name=”Brodhead” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/SydneyB-e1606239344843.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Sydney Badeau” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#91c5f2″ text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Sydney is a self advocate on the BPDD board and is also the current Board President for the Wisconsin Youth Leadership Forum. She is a Partners in Policymaking alumni and became a crisis counselor for Crisis Text Line in December of 2019. “I got involved with advocacy because I want to make Wisconsin a better place for all people with disabilities.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Ashley Mathy” company_name=”Rhinelander” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/AshleyM_edited-e1569368084858.png” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Ashley Mathy” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Ashley is a disability advocate who has spoken around the state of Wisconsin advocating for individuals with special needs. She is a Wisconsin Policymaking Partner, Employment 1st Ambassador and President of People First\u2019s Rhinelander Chapter. Her motto is \u201cCross out the Dis and Embrace the Ability.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Nicole Schneider” job_title=”Dept. of Health Services” company_name=”Madison” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Kevin Coughlin” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”50px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”J\u2019apresanacat\u2019iga, Dr. Cheryl Funmaker ” company_name=”Wisconsin Dells” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/CherylF-e1606240391963.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Cheryl Funmaker” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#91c5f2″ text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

It is both my honor and privilege to represent people with disabilities in a dual capacity for WIBPDD: as a supportive family member and committed provider. My mother is Ho-Chunk and my father was Standing Rock Sioux. I reside in Nizura (Wisconsin Dells) with my family and relatives.\u00a0I will steadfastly advocate for cultural responsivity and equity lenses in collaborative efforts that benefit people with disabilities.\u00a0<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Stephenie Mlodzik” company_name=”Appleton” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/StephenieMlodzik_andHusband-e1606240844924.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Stephenie Mlodzik” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#91c5f2″ text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Stephenie is from the Fox Valley Region. She represents her community as a self-advocate on the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD). ” This appointment allows me to hear from and work with others who bring their own perspectives, valuable talents, passions, and areas of expertise to the table. Using my own experience of living life with a disability as a backdrop, I lend my unique voice and perspective to this forum and put it to good use as a representative for my community.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Cindy Piotrowski” job_title=”Older Americans Act Rep” company_name=”Stevens Point” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Cindy-pic-3.png” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Cindy Piotrowski” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#f2836b” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Cindy Piotrowski is currently the Director at the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Portage County. Cindy is responsible for the successful management of the county department that administers a variety of community-based services and access to long-term care. She aims to assist seniors and adults with disabilities to maintain physical and mental well-being, independence, safety and dignity.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Lisa Stephan” job_title=”Maternal Child Health Rep” company_name=”Manitowoc” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/LisaStephan.png” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Lisa Stephan” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Lisa is the Family Resiliency Unit Manager with the Manitowoc County Human Services Department. Lisa has the opportunity to work with teams in the Children\u2019s Long Term Support Program, Children\u2019s Community Options Program, Coordinated Services, and county Birth to 3. Lisa\u2019s passion is finding people\u2019s strengths and building upon those!<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Pich Pakwilaikiat” job_title=”Disability Rights WI Rep” company_name=”Madison” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Hope Swanson” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#f2836b” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Kelly Weyer” company_name=”Mt Horeb” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/PIP_Kelly_Weyer-scaled-e1606240996494.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Kelly Weyer” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#91c5f2″ text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Kelly is a self-advocate from Mt Horeb. <\/o:p>She is also a Partners in Policymaking alumni. “I learned different experiences from Partners in Policymaking and heard lots of different stories from parents about helping their child with a disability going through difficult times. I applied to the board because I want to be speak up for myself and for\u00a0others with disabilities. I also want to see services expanded in rural ares around the state.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Mike Hipple” company_name=”Appleton” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Mike Hipple” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}” locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n

Mike Hipple is a man who is living his best life in Appleton. He might have cerebral palsy and use Augmentative Alternative Communication, but he thinks of himself as an advocate for families and individuals who can’t speak for themselves or need support. He is founder of Wisconsin AAC Network {2015}.\u00a0 He founded Wisconsin Augmentative Alternative Communication AAC Network. He will be helping the board by getting information to school professionals and school districts. He also hopes to bring some of his knowledge about special education and assistive technology to the board. Mike enjoys writing blogs. He wrote a children’s book about starting school for students with a disability.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial author=”Patrick friedrich” job_title=”Vice Chair” company_name=”Milwaukee” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/pat.png” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Patrick friedrich” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#f2836b” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”50px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Patrick is a self advocate. \u00a0Issues that are important to him include housing, transportation, and employment. He would like to increase his advocacy.\u00a0 Here is his\u00a0video statement<\/a>.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Felicia Clayborne” company_name=”Wauwatosa” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Felicia-Clayborne-1.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Felicia Clayborne” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#f2836b” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Felicia Clayborne lives in Wauwatosa, WI. She is intellectually disabled and visually impaired. She is a cleric leader and has her own travel group named Abilities Travel Club. Felicia statewide advocate. “The reason why I want to be on the BPDD board for make an impact within the I\/DD community and to empower others around me and even the I\/DD. I want to make sure that we as board can achieve the goals that we have set out to do.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Shanice Baquet” company_name=”Milwaukee” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ShaniceB_cropped.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Shanice Baquet” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”50px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

I\u2019m an early childhood educator, Community Health Worker, birthworker, asthma advocate, Pail Advocate, Lactation Consultant Specialist, IEP supporter, and I\u2019m still learning more. I’m also the founder of Mommy Beautiful Sunrise Inc (MBS). MBS is an organization that empowers and uplifts melanin families.<\/p>\n

I wanted to be on the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities to be the voice for other parents with children with disabilities and my community. I want to ensure their voice is heard as well as mine.\u00a0 I also wanted to be part of the change and know more ways to support our children in Milwaukee.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Anna Eggebrecht” job_title=”Dept. of Workforce Development” company_name=”Madison” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Eggebrechtheadshot.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Anna Eggebrecht” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#f2836b” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”50px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Anna works for the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation as Deputy Director for Bureau of Consumer Services. She is interested in helping individuals with disabilities realize their inherent strengths, value and find success through employment and community engagement.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Desi Kluth” company_name=”Pewaukee” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/DSC09396-440×440.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Desi Kluth” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”50px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Desi is determined to live a completely independent life. \u00a0“I want to make the system better so people don\u2019t have to go through what I did when I lived in a group home.”<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Daniel Parker” job_title=”Dept. of Public Instruction” company_name=”Madison” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/parker-small.png” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Daniel parker” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#f2836b” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”50px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Daniel Parker is the assistant director of special education at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and the Board\u2019s liaison with the\u00a0Department of Public Instruction.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Hector Portillo” company_name=”Madison” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/HectorP_edited.png” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Hector Portillo” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Hector is the Executive Director and founder of PADRES E HIJOS EN ACCION. “I envision a world in which all people with disabilities have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, and strengthen the civic life of the community as a whole. I see the Board as an opportunity to reach this goal.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Julie Strenn” company_name=”Wisconsin Rapids” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/JulieStrenn-scaled.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Julie Strenn” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#f2836b” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”50px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Julie is the President of Opportunity Development Centers Inc. \u201cI am honored and humbled to be appointed by Governor Evers to serve on the BPDD Board of Directors. In my every day work at ODC, we provide supports so that every person can live their best life. It is important to me to extend this to statewide advocacy.\u201d<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Kate Szidon” job_title=”Waisman Center” company_name=”Madison” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Kate-photo-2.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Kate Szidon” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Kate Szidon has a Master\u2019s degree in special education from the University of Oregon\u2019s Specialized Training Program in transition.\u00a0 Following her certification program, Kate taught special education for fourteen years.\u00a0 Her experiences in special education include providing technical assistance and support. Kate joined the Waisman Center in the summer of 2009.\u00a0 She has worked on a variety of grant funded projects training and supporting special education professionals and families raising children with developmental disabilities.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Christianne Whiting” company_name=”Verona” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ChristiW_pic.jpeg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Christi Whiting” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#91c5f2″ text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Christi Whiting joins the Board as a family member of an individual with disabilities.\u00a0 She lives just outside of Madison, in the Town of Middleton, with her husband and three sons, but grew up in Rhinelander and still enjoys spending time with her family \u201cup North.\u201d\u00a0 Christi works as an attorney for WEC Energy Group when she isn\u2019t coordinating kid activities, reading or spending time outside.\u00a0 She first became involved with BPDD as an advocate for her son, and is committed to the mission of enabling all individuals to live rich and fulfilling lives, and to expanding awareness in the broader community of the challenges facing individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. Christi has a special interest in supporting family members in finding respite, care coordination, and other resources.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial author=”Tara Brzezinski ” company_name=”Neenah” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/TaraB_pic.jpeg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Tara Brzezinski” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#f2836b” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Tara Brzezinski lives in Neenah Wisconsin with husband, three children, two dogs. She sits on the BPDD as a parent representative to help be a stronger advocate for her son and those throughout the state with disabilities. She is very active in her community and advocacy world. She sits on the Neenah School board, is on two CLTS committees for Winnebago co, is a child parent advocate specializing in IEPs, and helps with the special needs department at her church.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Tara loves being able to find solutions to issues that affect those with disabilities. She is very passionate about making sure their rights are protected and respected.\u00a0<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Ryan McGuire” company_name=”Fitchburg” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Ryan-Casual-1.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Ryan McGuire” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”50px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.0″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Ryan McGuire is a Senior Consultant with Oak Wealth Advisors, a special needs financial planning firm, in Madison. As a big brother to a wonderful young lady with developmental disabilities, Ryan is inspired to help individuals live their most independent and best lives. Ryan appreciates the passionate involvement of self-advocates within BPDD and hopes that his experience can benefit the mission of the organization. Outside of work, Ryan serves as a high school wrestling referee and enjoys performing music. Ryan resides in the Madison area with his wife and two daughters.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Marcia Perkins” company_name=”Milwaukee” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Marcia_Perkins-scaled-e1649877340651.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Marcia Perkins” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#91c5f2″ text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Marcia is basic needs and community advocate. She was appointed as a family member representative on the board. Marcia is also on the Milwaukee county Commission for Persons with Disabilities.\u00a0<\/p>\n

“I wanted to be on the board to be able to build a gateway for 2 family members and to bring forth and engage in a meaningful lifestyle by breaking barriers. The best way to help yourself is putting your arms around someone else.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Nathan Ruffolo” company_name=”Appleton” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/DSC09421.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Nathan ruffolo” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”34px|25px|49px|25px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Nathan is the sibling of a person with disabilities, a Partners in Policymaking graduate, and a longtime advocate for people with disabilities. Nathan works as a\u00a0Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist at the\u00a0Division of Vocational Rehabilitation\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Denise Muchow” company_name=”Mauston” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/DeniseMuchow.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Daniel Strutz” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

I am an AuDHD mother to four children with various developmental and educational disabilities. I am a Special Education and Family Advocate across the State of Wisconsin. By serving on the Board, I hope to be a voice for not only my family but a voice to the many families I serve.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Tricia Thompson” company_name=”Menomonie ” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/DSC09401.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Tricia Thompson” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Tricia serves as a family member\/caregiver representative on the Board. Her unique perspective comes from raising her brother as well as living with two parents who were both diagnosed with a disability. She understands the challenges individuals with disabilities and non-traditional caregivers sometimes encounter. “I feel honored to be included as a member of a group I believe is filled with authentic voices.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Andy Thain” company_name=”Thorp” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/DSC09427.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Andy Thain” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#91c5f2″ text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Andy Thain is a self-advocate with cerebral palsy. From 2011-2016, he started and ran his own business that helped other people with disabilities who relied on in-home care, \u00a0He is very interested in addressing the caregiver shortage as well as issues around integrated employment for people with disabilities. “I believe given the right supports everyone should be able to have the opportunity to work and live fulfilling lives.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Chris Wood” company_name=”Eau Claire” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/DSC06437-scaled.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”Chris Wood” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#f2836b” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

I look forward to being able to represent Western Wisconsin on the board. It’s an area of the state that I feel is sometimes overlooked. My personal favorite areas of disability Policy include ADA compliance transportation issues and the caregiving crisis.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”George Zaske” company_name=”River falls” portrait_url=”https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/George-Z-440×440.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”110px” portrait_height=”110px” admin_label=”George Zaske” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ body_font=”|800||on|||||” body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”2.1em” background_color=”#79cc8c” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”80px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”0px|25px||25px|false|false” custom_padding=”49px|25px|49px|25px|true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

George is the parent of an adult son with a disability and has spent many years advocating for people with disabilities to be fully accepted in the community.”I want to improve society\u2019s understanding of how much people with disabilities have to contribute to the well-being of our communities.”<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Members of the Board come from around the state and are appointed by the Governor to serve four-year terms.\u00a0At least 60% of the membership consists of people with developmental disabilities or their family members. The remaining 40% includes representatives from state agencies, providers and other organizations within the disability community.Sydney is a self advocate on […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"

[caption id=\"attachment_1342\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"501\"]\"Wi-<\/a> Board members come from every area of the state.[\/caption]\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\"ElsaBoard Chair: Elsa Diaz-Bautista\u00a0<\/strong>\r\nMilwaukee\r\n\r\nElsa Diaz-Bautista, is the executive director of Latino Alliance Applying Solutions, which promotes independence for individuals with disabilities.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\"GregBoard Vice Chair: Gregory Meyer<\/strong>\r\nMonico\r\n\r\nGreg Meyer is from Monico, WI. He served as Town Supervisor in Monico from 2011-2015. He was a delegate to the Wisconsin Youth Leadership Forum in 2004; staff in 2008 and 2012-16, board 2012-present, VP 2015-2017, and President 2017-2019. He graduated from the Partners in Poilicymaking class of 2013-2014. He is a Firefighter for Monico Volunteer Fire Department 2012-present (and lieutenant from February 2016 -present). Greg said, \u201cI'm a person who has a disability that doesn't let the disability run my life. I am glad that I got appointed to the board so I can bring what my thoughts from the boards that I have served on, from the programs that I went through, and from my disability over the years to help with the board to get where they want to go.\u201d\r\n\r\n\"\"<\/a>Barbara Beckert<\/strong>\r\nMilwaukee\r\n\r\nBarbara is the Disability Rights Wisconsin's representative to the Board. Barbara has worked for many years advocating for individuals with disabilities. Barbara is committed to providing high-quality and adequate community supports that are critical for people with complex disabilities so they are both safe and welcome in their communities. \u00a0Barbara says, \"We all have a role to play in supporting people with disabilities to have productive lives!\"\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\"Gail<\/a>Gail Bovy<\/strong>\r\nMiddleton\r\n\r\nGail Bovy is the parent of a child with disabilities and a passionate advocate for persons with disabilities. Gail has been active on the national level advocating for individuals with disabilities. While living in Washington D.C., she was instrumental in sponsoring and developing the ABLE Act through legislation. Gail currently lives in Middleton, WI, and is working for the Dept. of Veteran Affairs in Madison.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\"Kedi_smallpic\"<\/b>Kedibonye Carpenter<\/strong>\r\nLa Crosse\r\n\r\nKedibonye Carpenter is the mother of child with disabilities and works as a Statewide Multicultural Specialist with Wisconsin Family Assistance Center for Education, Training, and Support, Inc. (WI FACETS). She has worked extensively with Wisconsin educators and families promoting culturally responsive family engagement, and believes that we can accomplish great things by coming together and finding our common causes. Kedibonye believes that we define ourselves by how we contribute to our communities and groups, and is dedicated to promoting inclusion for all.\r\n\r\n\"\"<\/a>Kevin Coughlin<\/strong>\r\nMadison\r\n\r\nKevin Coughlin works for the Division of Long Term Care, Department of Health Services as a Policy Initiatives Advisor. Kevin said, \u201cI am honored to serve on the Board for People with Developmental Disabilities and collaborate with the many partners to improve services for our Wisconsin citizens.\" Kevin is one of the board\u2019s official state agency representatives.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\"\"<\/a>\r\n\r\nMeredith Dressel<\/strong>\r\nMadison\r\n\r\nMeredith Dressel is with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Here is her statement: \u201cI have significant experience collaborating with statewide stakeholders and partners to increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Prior to being part of the DVR management team, I was a DVR counselor for 10 years specializing in transitioning youth from school to work. As part of that, I learned that it is very important for individuals with disabilities to have strong advocacy and self-determination skills.\u201d\r\n\r\n\"pat\"<\/a>Patrick Friedrich\r\nMilwaukee<\/strong>\r\n\r\nPatrick Friedrich is a self advocate. \u00a0Important issues for him are housing, transportation, and employment. He would like to increase his advocacy.\u00a0 Here is a video statement<\/a> from Mr. Friedrich.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\"fuller109\"<\/a><\/strong>Rita Fuller\r\n<\/strong>Madison\r\n\r\nRita Fuller is a Consultant - Indicator 8 Parent Involvement \/ Wisconsin Statewide Parent-Educator Initiative (WSPEI).\u00a0 Rita Fuller is also the Board's liaison with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\"lizH-small\"<\/a>Liz Hecht\r\nMadison<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLiz Hecht is a Parent Projects Coordinator at the Waisman Center.\u00a0Liz Hecht is also the Board\u2019s liaison with our partner organization, the Waisman Center.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\nRobert Kuhr<\/strong>\"\"<\/a>\r\nMenasha\r\n\r\nBoard Member Robert Kuhr is a self-advocate, who lives in Menasha, WI. \"I like to be on the board to make change in the disability world. I like to challenge other people with disabilities and providers without disabilities to make change. I was a founding member of People First of Neenah-Menasha. \u00a0Robert says, \"One of the activities I am most proud of is to get funding to help the local chapter of the Knights of Columbus buy new yellow vests. Knights of Columbus volunteers wear these vests while they collect donations during their annual donation drive for people with developmental disabilities. The new vests have more appropriate wording.\u201d\r\n\r\n\"sarah\"<\/a>Sarah Lincoln\r\n<\/strong>Madison\r\n\r\nSarah Lincoln is with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development,\u00a0 Department of Vocational Rehabilitation.\u00a0 Sarah Lincoln is\u00a0also the Board\u2019s liaison with Department of Workforce Development.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\"PamPam Malin<\/strong>\r\nDePere\r\n\r\nPam Malin is a sibling, of a deceased brother with Down Syndrome, and a lifelong disability advocate. Pam is passionate about advocating for individuals with disabilities, in the areas of healthy relationships, boundaries, self-advocacy, safety and abuse prevention. Pam currently lives in De Pere, WI, and works at Disability Rights Wisconsin, working with systems and individuals with disabilities, around the intersection of disability and abuse.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\"AshelyM\"\r\n\r\nAshley Mathy<\/strong>\r\nRhinelander\r\n\r\nAshley Mathy is a 23-year-old disability advocate who is serving on the board as a Primary Consumer Representative. She is a Wisconsin Policymaking Partner, Employment 1st Ambassador and President of People First\u2019s Rhinelander Chapter.\u00a0 Ashley has spoken around the state of Wisconsin advocating for individuals with special needs.\u00a0 In addition, she has been interviewed on the TV, Radio and Newspaper on multiple occasions to provide her insights on the importance of employment. Ashley works aggressively as an advocate for all individuals with special needs with a motto to \u201cCross out the Dis and Embrace the Ability\u201d. I wanted to join the Board to help make change in the State of WI for people with Disabilities.\u00a0 More specifically, I have a passion for assisting\u00a0people\u00a0with disabilities to gain employment.\r\n\r\n\"parker-small\"<\/a><\/strong>Daniel Parker<\/strong>\r\nMadison\r\n\r\nDaniel Parker, Assistant Director, Special Education, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Daniel is also the Board's liaison with the\u00a0Department of Public Instruction.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\nDavid Pinno<\/strong>\"\"<\/a>\r\nNew London\r\n\r\nDavid is a self advocate that follows ABLE bill legislation nationally.\u00a0 Pinno said, \"I joined the WI BPDD board with the goal of advocating for an understanding of the everyday economic hardships faced by people with disabilities. I hope to provide state legislators and others with a realization that even small changes in laws and regulations can have a big impact on people. There are not only direct impacts on people caused by legislative changes, but also the impacts of these changes in the community.\u201d\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\"Hector\r\n\r\nHector Portillo\r\n<\/strong>Madison\r\n\r\nI am with the Department of Public Instruction\u2019s Grant, Wisconsin Statewide Parent-Educator Initiative (WSPEI) as a Statewide Family Engagement Coordinator, and an employee of CESA # 2, working with Latino Hispanic families and other culturally diverse populations to provide information, resources and support for families of students with disabilities. I am the Executive Director and founder of PADRES E HIJOS EN ACCION. I applied to be on the Board because I envision a world in which all people with disabilities have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, and strengthen the civic life of the community as a whole. I see the Board an opportunity to reach this goal.\r\n\r\n\"Leila_profilepic\"\r\n\r\nLeila Solati\r\n<\/strong>Milwaukee\r\n\r\nWhen asked what issue she would like to work on during her service on the Board, Leila responded, \u201cTo give families and individuals with developmental disabilities hope for their future. Every person with a disability has something unique to offer and it\u2019s a matter of considering their abilities and not always focusing on their disabilities. In addition, I believe in the importance of community outreach, self-advocacy and keeping the public informed of concerns related to disability community.\u201d Leila has four years of experience as a Lead Case Manager and Lead Functional Screener for the My Choice Family Care Program. In addition, to case management, she assisted with grievance\/appeal rights and guardianships. She is currently a case manager for the Children\u2019s CLTS Waiver Program in Ozaukee County and was recently assigned as the Lead Screener. She has also assisted with Adult Protective Services within the county as needed.\r\n\r\n\"\"<\/a>\r\n\r\nLynn Stansberry-Brusnahan<\/strong>\r\nShorewood\r\n\r\n\"I am very involved in advocacy in the autism community at the local, state, and national level. Professionally I am working to provide more post-secondary supports for individuals on the college campus.\u201d Lynn is the parent of a young adult with autism. She has a Ph.D. from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in Urban Education with a focus in Exceptional Education. As an Associate Professor at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, she coordinates the autism spectrum disorders certificate, license and Master\u2019s program. Lynn has served as the president of the Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin, on the Autism Society of Wisconsin Board, and on the national Autism Society of America Board. She is a current board member of the Council for Exceptional Children\u2019s (CEC) Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities (DADD). She also serves on the advisory board for the Minnesota Life College. In 2012, Lynn was awarded the Cathy Pratt Professional of the Year award from the Autism Society of America.\r\n\r\n\"Andy\r\n\r\nAndy Thain<\/strong>\r\nThorp\r\n\r\nMy name is Andy Thain I\u2019m a 33-year-old self-advocate with cerebral palsy. I attended Marquette University and graduated in 2008 with a degree in business administration. After graduating I had difficulty finding a job that was a good fit for me. So, in 2011, I started my own business running a home care agency. I found the work of helping other people with disabilities that relied on in-home care, like I do, very rewarding. In 2016 I closed my business and since then I have been looking for a way to help others with disabilities. The Wisconsin Board for people with developmental disabilities is an extremely active and hard-working board. I am privileged to be a member and look forward to helping in whatever way I can. My areas of interest include helping to address the caregiver shortage and issues around integrated employment for people with disabilities. I believe given the right supports everyone should be able to have the opportunity to work and live fulfilling lives.\r\n\r\n\"Tricia\r\n\r\nTricia Thompson<\/strong>\r\nMenomonie\r\n\r\nThe experience of raising my brother as well as living with two parents who were both diagnosed with a disability is why I believe serving as a family member\/caregiver representative on BPDD is an opportunity to add a unique perspective to the challenges individuals with disabilities and non-traditional caregivers sometimes encounter.\u00a0More than anything, I would like to serve as an active board member who provides my input and assistance on a variety of topics and projects. Through many life experiences, I have come to appreciate how important it is to speak up in order to help others understand.\u00a0 I feel honored to be included as a member of a group I believe is filled with authentic voices.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe BPDD is dedicated to improving the independence, productivity, and integration of people with developmental disabilities. For more information please see Become a BPDD Board Member about or contact Jenny Neugart.\u00a0 Phone: (608) 266-7707 Email: jennifer.neugart@wisconsin.gov for more information.\r\n\r\nMembers of the Board are appointed by the Governor to serve four-year terms as follows:\u00a0<\/strong>At least 60% of the membership shall consist of persons with developmental disabilities or their parents or guardians or of immediate relatives or guardians of persons with mentally impairing developmental disabilities. The remaining 40% of the members must include nine required non-consumer categories.\r\n\r\nThese include:\r\n\r\nOne representative from the agency that administers Vocational Rehabilitation services (Department of Workforce Development-DWD);\r\nOne representative from the agency that administers Medical Assistance (Department of Health Services-DHS);\r\nOne representative from the agency that administers the Older Americans Act (DHS);\r\nOne representative from the Department of Public Instruction (DPI);\r\nOne representative from the University Center of Excellence (Waisman Center);\r\nOne representative from the states' Protection and Advocacy agency (Disability Rights Wisconsin-DRW, formerly the WI Coalition for Advocacy-WCA);\r\nThese six categories are all considered \"State Agencies\". The Secretary of the Department or the Director of the Waisman Center and DRW appoints the member. Since DHS administers two of the required programs, one person can represent both categories.\r\n\r\nThe remaining required categories include:\r\n\r\nOne public (County) provider;\r\nOne private, not for profit DD service provider;\r\nOne \"non-governmental agency\" that does advocacy.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\u00a0","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-123","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/123","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=123"}],"version-history":[{"count":220,"href":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/123\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16905,"href":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/123\/revisions\/16905"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wi-bpdd.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=123"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}