Meet Our Team

At CAC, we are a team of dedicated staff members who work tirelessly to provide the highest-quality services to the individuals we serve and their families.

Executive Team and Staff

Dr. Jill Forte, BCBA

CEO

Dr. Jill Forte, BCBA

CEO

Email Jill

Bachelor of Science in Cytotechnology from Indiana University, a Master of Science in Pathology from Indiana University, Doctorate of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University.

I have a black belt in Taekwondo and have run two marathons!

Allie Kindy

MA, BCBA

Allie Kindy

MA, BCBA

Email Allie

Amber Smith, MA, BCaBA

BCaBA

Amber Smith, MA, BCaBA

BCaBA

Email Amber

Masters of Art in Applied Behavior Analysis.

I love to go camping!

Angela Keppol

Director of Operations

Angela Keppol

Director of Operations

Email Angela

Bachelor of Arts in Child Development.

I love to go hiking and be surrounded by the quiet of the forest, especially in the fall.

Audrey Chapin MA, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Audrey Chapin MA, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Email Audrey

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Speech Science, Masters of Arts in Speech Language Pathology.

I enjoy hanging out with my husband and two boys on the beach when we get the chance to travel!

Audri Oster

MA, BCBA

Audri Oster

MA, BCBA

Email Audri

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Trine University, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University.

My husband and I got married inside the Olympic National Park! We love to explore nature locally and while traveling!

Brittany Flaig, BS, BCaBA

Clinical Director

Brittany Flaig, BS, BCaBA

Clinical Director

Email Brittany

Bachelor of Science in General Studies, Masters in Behavior Analysis (projected graduation Fall 2024).

I am a wife and mother of two boys. They keep me busy with practices and sporting events.

Brittney Hartman, BS

BCaBA / PCM Instructor

Brittney Hartman, BS

BCaBA / PCM Instructor

Email Brittney

Bachelors in Elementary Education.

I love peanut butter & pickle sandwiches!

Chelsey Fast, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Chelsey Fast, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Email Chelsey

Master's Degree in Psychology with an ABA concentration.

I am a HUGE Justin Bieber fan!

Christina Pranger, MA

Chief Operating Officer

Christina Pranger, MA

Chief Operating Officer

Email Christina

Bachelor of Science in Human Services Management from Indiana Institute of Technology, Masters of Art from Ball State University in Applied Behavior Analysis & Certificate in Autism Treatment.

In high school, I wanted to be an interior designer. Then I started working with individuals with developmental disabilities and found my passion for helping others!

Colleen Scheible-Hill MA, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Colleen Scheible-Hill MA, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Email Colleen

Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology from Miami University
I started at CAC in 2016 as an RBT and have returned 6 years later, now as an SLP! My husband and I enjoy riding our bikes downtown from our house to explore! We also have a great dane named "Coco" and a Newfypoo named "Zeke" who we love to take on walks around the parks!

Cory Miller, SHRM-SCP

Director of Human Resources

Cory Miller, SHRM-SCP

Director of Human Resources

Email Cory

Elaine Harrison, MA, BCBA

Early Learner Program Manager

Elaine Harrison, MA, BCBA

Early Learner Program Manager

Email Elaine

Master of Arts in Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology.

Emilie Thieme, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Emilie Thieme, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Email Emilie

Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Autism concentration from Ball State University, Bachelor of Science in Public Health Promotion with a minor in Human Development Family Studies from Purdue University.

I speak fluent Friends quotes. Ask my dog, Joey!

Emily Wyss, BS, BCaBA

Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst / PEERS Coordinator

Emily Wyss, BS, BCaBA

Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst / PEERS Coordinator

Email Emily

Bachelor of Science from Purdue University with a degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, BCaBA Certification through FIT.

I was on a jump rope team in elementary school called the Turtle Town Turners!

Jen Harkness

Billing Manager

Jen Harkness

Billing Manager

Email Jen

Bachelors in Elementary Education from Taylor University.

I love snow and take every opportunity to visit my sister in the north woods of Wisconsin.

Jenna Davis, BSW

Director of Clinical Operations

Jenna Davis, BSW

Director of Clinical Operations

Email Jenna

Bachelor of Social Work from Huntington University.

My husband and I enjoy spending the majority of our free time cheering on our four kids from the bleachers

Jessica Hesselschwardt, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Jessica Hesselschwardt, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Email Jessica

Master of Arts from Ball State University.

I love to golf!

Jessica Ross, MA, BCBA

Clinical Director

Jessica Ross, MA, BCBA

Clinical Director

Email Jessica

Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

I grew up on a farm and participated in 4-H for ten years.

Kate Hauke, MA, BCaBA

BCaBA

Kate Hauke, MA, BCaBA

BCaBA

Email Kate

Master of Arts in Architecture from Ball State University, Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst program from Florida Institute of Technology.

I love chocolate, the beach, and spending time with my family.

Katie Beery, BS, SLPA

Speech Language Pathologist Associate

Katie Beery, BS, SLPA

Speech Language Pathologist Associate

Email Katie

Currently in Graduate school at Purdue Fort Wayne to receive my Masters in Speech Language Pathology.

I enjoy playing tennis, reading and walking my two ferocious Corgis.

Kim Pettit

Authorizations Specialist

Kim Pettit

Authorizations Specialist

Email Kim

Associates Degree.

I played softball for 22 years for multiple leagues and in 2 all-night softball tournaments.

Kim Beckman

Scheduler

Kim Beckman

Scheduler

Email Kim

My favorite reality TV show is Big Brother!

Krista Lee, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Krista Lee, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Email Krista

Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with minors in Child Development and Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State.

I moved to Indiana from Chicago in 2014!

Kristen Kage

Lead Scheduler

Kristen Kage

Lead Scheduler

Email Kristen

Attended IPFW and Ivy Tech and obtained CNA, CDA, and RBT certifications.

I love being outdoors and trying new things; scuba diving, hiking, skiing, cave diving, and spelunking. Skydiving is next on my list!

Kristin Barnes, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Kristin Barnes, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Email Kristin

Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis at Ball State University.

I’ve had a close encounter with a black bear and have been skydiving.

Lauren Spaulding, MSW, LSW, IN Navigator

Family Support Specialist

Lauren Spaulding, MSW, LSW, IN Navigator

Family Support Specialist

Email Lauren

LouAnn Stone, MA

Intake Coordinator

LouAnn Stone, MA

Intake Coordinator

Email LouAnn

Bachelor of Arts from Eastern Kentucky University, Master of Arts from the University of Louisville.

I was a teacher for 33 years and retired in 2017. My favorite years were when I taught kindergarten.

Luke Schroeder

IT Manager

Luke Schroeder

IT Manager

Email Luke

Bachelor of Science in Education from Manchester University, Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst from Florida Institute of Technology.

I love learning things! You could say I’m nerdy about being nerdy. In the past couple of years, I’ve enjoyed exploring antique tool restoration, coffee brewing methods, 3d printing, and weightlifting. I also love to chat with staff members and clients about what they’re nerdy about!

McKayla Prentice, MA, RBT

North Site Manager

McKayla Prentice, MA, RBT

North Site Manager

Email McKayla

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ball State University, Masters of Arts in Special Education / ABA from Arizona State University.

As a kid, my favorite movie was 101 Dalmatians because I wanted to save all the puppies. Now as an adult, I have my very own Dalmatian, Scarlett, who is the star of the show and has the biggest personality EVER!

Megan Reed-Hansen, MA, BCBA

Director of Training

Megan Reed-Hansen, MA, BCBA

Director of Training

Email Megan

Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Olivet Nazarene University.

Masters of Art in Professional Counseling from Olivet Nazarene University.

Applied Behavior Analysis Coursework Certificate from University of North Texas.

I love to travel with my family and experience the local culture wherever we are. I have been to 19 countries outside the US...and adding more every year! I hope to make it to Ireland, Portugal and Iceland in the next few years.

Merceides Winright

Talent Acquisition Specialist

Merceides Winright

Talent Acquisition Specialist

Email Merceides

Associate’s Degree in Applied Sciences.

I am a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher.

Mica Buenconsejo, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Mica Buenconsejo, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Email Mica

Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University.

A big dream of mine is to publish a children’s book!

Monique Martin, BS

South Site Manager

Monique Martin, BS

South Site Manager

Email Monique

Bachelor of Science in Human Services.

I enjoy spending my free time reading a book, playing volleyball, and spending time with my family.

Rachel Weigand, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Rachel Weigand, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Email Rachel

Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders from Indiana State University, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University.

I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family at the lake!

Dr. Rebecca Eldridge, BCBA-D

Chief Clinical Officer

Dr. Rebecca Eldridge, BCBA-D

Chief Clinical Officer

Email Rebecca

Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Colorado State University, Master of Arts in Social Science from University of Chicago, Ph.D. in Psychology (Behavior Analysis Program) from Western Michigan University.

I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, and while I love experiencing all four seasons, I miss the beauty of desert vistas and mountains. I love traveling to State and National Parks!

Sarah Dotson, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Sarah Dotson, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

Email Sarah

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at IPFW, Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Applied Behavior Analysis and Organizational Behavior Management.

One of my favorite hobbies is doing puzzles!

Sheila Slattery, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor & Intermediate Program Manager

Sheila Slattery, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor & Intermediate Program Manager

Email Sheila

Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis, Currently pursuing Ph.D. Organizational Leadership.

I just love animals, specifically dogs! I currently serve on the board of my local humane society to help be a voice for the animals there. I am also obsessed with my dog, Buddy. I created an Instagram page for him, and I enjoy sharing his adventures with others.

Tara Held

Development Coordinator

Tara Held

Development Coordinator

Email Tara

Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies.

I performed in the halftime show at the 2011 Sugar Bowl!

 

Board Members

Benjamin Capper

Board President

Benjamin Capper

Board President

Ann Marie Boyer Zelt

Board Secretary

Ann Marie Boyer Zelt

Board Secretary

B.S. from Ball State University

Ann Boyer Zelt, B.S., has been on the Board of Directors (BOD) since 2005 and is one of the founding members of the organization. Ann was the President of the BOD from 2011-15 and is now a Juvenile Probation Officer for the Allen Superior Court. She has been working with the youth in our community for over 28 years.

Mandy Rispoli

Board Member

Mandy Rispoli

Board Member

Amy Thompson

Finance Committee Chair and Board Member

Amy Thompson

Finance Committee Chair and Board Member

Andy Beckman

Board Member

Andy Beckman

Board Member

Andy Beckman has been a morning radio personality in the Fort Wayne area for over 12 years and currently works for Federated Media on 97.3 WMEE. Andy works along local business and community leaders to develop local marketing campaigns and raise money for local charities and radio station promotions. He has a M.B.A from Indiana Wesleyan University and a B.A. in Telecommunications from Ball State University.

 
 
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Dr. Jill Forte, BCBA

CEO

jill@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in Cytotechnology from Indiana University, a Master of Science in Pathology from Indiana University, Doctorate of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University.

I have a black belt in Taekwondo and have run two marathons!

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Amber Smith, MA, BCaBA

BCaBA

ambersmith@childrensautismcenter.org

Masters of Art in Applied Behavior Analysis.

I love to go camping!

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Angela Keppol

Director of Operations

angelakeppol@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Arts in Child Development.

I love to go hiking and be surrounded by the quiet of the forest, especially in the fall.

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Audrey Chapin MA, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

audreychapin@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Speech Science, Masters of Arts in Speech Language Pathology.

I enjoy hanging out with my husband and two boys on the beach when we get the chance to travel!

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Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Trine University, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University.

My husband and I got married inside the Olympic National Park! We love to explore nature locally and while traveling!

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Brittany Flaig, BS, BCaBA

Clinical Director

brittanyflaig@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in General Studies, Masters in Behavior Analysis (projected graduation Fall 2024).

I am a wife and mother of two boys. They keep me busy with practices and sporting events.

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Brittney Hartman, BS

BCaBA / PCM Instructor

brittneyhartman@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelors in Elementary Education.

I love peanut butter & pickle sandwiches!

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Chelsey Fast, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

chelseyfast@childrensautismcenter.org

Master's Degree in Psychology with an ABA concentration.

I am a HUGE Justin Bieber fan!

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Christina Pranger, MA

Chief Operating Officer

christinapranger@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in Human Services Management from Indiana Institute of Technology, Masters of Art from Ball State University in Applied Behavior Analysis & Certificate in Autism Treatment.

In high school, I wanted to be an interior designer. Then I started working with individuals with developmental disabilities and found my passion for helping others!

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Colleen Scheible-Hill MA, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

colleenscheible@childrensautismcenter.org

Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology from Miami University
I started at CAC in 2016 as an RBT and have returned 6 years later, now as an SLP! My husband and I enjoy riding our bikes downtown from our house to explore! We also have a great dane named "Coco" and a Newfypoo named "Zeke" who we love to take on walks around the parks!

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Cory Miller, SHRM-SCP

Director of Human Resources

corymiller@childrensautismcenter.org

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Elaine Harrison, MA, BCBA

Early Learner Program Manager

elaineharrison@childrensautismcenter.org

Master of Arts in Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology.

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Emilie Thieme, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

emilethieme@childrensautismcenter.org

Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Autism concentration from Ball State University, Bachelor of Science in Public Health Promotion with a minor in Human Development Family Studies from Purdue University.

I speak fluent Friends quotes. Ask my dog, Joey!

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Emily Wyss, BS, BCaBA

Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst / PEERS Coordinator

emilywyss@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science from Purdue University with a degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, BCaBA Certification through FIT.

I was on a jump rope team in elementary school called the Turtle Town Turners!

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Jen Harkness

Billing Manager

jenniferharkness@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelors in Elementary Education from Taylor University.

I love snow and take every opportunity to visit my sister in the north woods of Wisconsin.

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Jenna Davis, BSW

Director of Clinical Operations

jennadavis@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Social Work from Huntington University.

My husband and I enjoy spending the majority of our free time cheering on our four kids from the bleachers

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Jessica Hesselschwardt, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

jessicahesselschwardt@childrensautismcenter.org

Master of Arts from Ball State University.

I love to golf!

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Jessica Ross, MA, BCBA

Clinical Director

jessica@childrensautismcenter.org

Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

I grew up on a farm and participated in 4-H for ten years.

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Kate Hauke, MA, BCaBA

BCaBA

katehauke@childrensautismcenter.org

Master of Arts in Architecture from Ball State University, Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst program from Florida Institute of Technology.

I love chocolate, the beach, and spending time with my family.

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Katie Beery, BS, SLPA

Speech Language Pathologist Associate

katelynbeery@childrensautismcenter.org

Currently in Graduate school at Purdue Fort Wayne to receive my Masters in Speech Language Pathology.

I enjoy playing tennis, reading and walking my two ferocious Corgis.

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Kim Pettit

Authorizations Specialist

kimpettit@childrensautismcenter.org

Associates Degree.

I played softball for 22 years for multiple leagues and in 2 all-night softball tournaments.

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Kim Beckman

Scheduler

kimbeckman@childrensautismcenter.org

My favorite reality TV show is Big Brother!

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Krista Lee, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

kristalee@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with minors in Child Development and Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State.

I moved to Indiana from Chicago in 2014!

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Kristen Kage

Lead Scheduler

kristenkage@childrensautismcenter.org

Attended IPFW and Ivy Tech and obtained CNA, CDA, and RBT certifications.

I love being outdoors and trying new things; scuba diving, hiking, skiing, cave diving, and spelunking. Skydiving is next on my list!

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Kristin Barnes, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

kristinbarnes@childrensautismcenter.org

Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis at Ball State University.

I’ve had a close encounter with a black bear and have been skydiving.

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Lauren Spaulding, MSW, LSW, IN Navigator

Family Support Specialist

laurenspaulding@childrensautismcenter.org

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LouAnn Stone, MA

Intake Coordinator

louannstone@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Arts from Eastern Kentucky University, Master of Arts from the University of Louisville.

I was a teacher for 33 years and retired in 2017. My favorite years were when I taught kindergarten.

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Luke Schroeder

IT Manager

lukeschroeder@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in Education from Manchester University, Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst from Florida Institute of Technology.

I love learning things! You could say I’m nerdy about being nerdy. In the past couple of years, I’ve enjoyed exploring antique tool restoration, coffee brewing methods, 3d printing, and weightlifting. I also love to chat with staff members and clients about what they’re nerdy about!

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McKayla Prentice, MA, RBT

North Site Manager

mckaylaprentice@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ball State University, Masters of Arts in Special Education / ABA from Arizona State University.

As a kid, my favorite movie was 101 Dalmatians because I wanted to save all the puppies. Now as an adult, I have my very own Dalmatian, Scarlett, who is the star of the show and has the biggest personality EVER!

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Megan Reed-Hansen, MA, BCBA

Director of Training

meganreedhansen@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Olivet Nazarene University.

Masters of Art in Professional Counseling from Olivet Nazarene University.

Applied Behavior Analysis Coursework Certificate from University of North Texas.

I love to travel with my family and experience the local culture wherever we are. I have been to 19 countries outside the US...and adding more every year! I hope to make it to Ireland, Portugal and Iceland in the next few years.

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Merceides Winright

Talent Acquisition Specialist

merceideswinright@childrensautismcenter.org

Associate’s Degree in Applied Sciences.

I am a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher.

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Mica Buenconsejo, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

angelicabuenconsejo@childrensautismcenter.org

Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University.

A big dream of mine is to publish a children’s book!

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Monique Martin, BS

South Site Manager

moniquemartin@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in Human Services.

I enjoy spending my free time reading a book, playing volleyball, and spending time with my family.

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Rachel Weigand, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

rachelweigand@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders from Indiana State University, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University.

I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family at the lake!

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Dr. Rebecca Eldridge, BCBA-D

Chief Clinical Officer

rebeccaeldridge@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Colorado State University, Master of Arts in Social Science from University of Chicago, Ph.D. in Psychology (Behavior Analysis Program) from Western Michigan University.

I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, and while I love experiencing all four seasons, I miss the beauty of desert vistas and mountains. I love traveling to State and National Parks!

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Sarah Dotson, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor

sarahdotson@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at IPFW, Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Applied Behavior Analysis and Organizational Behavior Management.

One of my favorite hobbies is doing puzzles!

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Sheila Slattery, MA, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor & Intermediate Program Manager

sheilaslattery@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis, Currently pursuing Ph.D. Organizational Leadership.

I just love animals, specifically dogs! I currently serve on the board of my local humane society to help be a voice for the animals there. I am also obsessed with my dog, Buddy. I created an Instagram page for him, and I enjoy sharing his adventures with others.

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Tara Held

Development Coordinator

taraplazek@childrensautismcenter.org

Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies.

I performed in the halftime show at the 2011 Sugar Bowl!

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Benjamin Capper

Board President

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Ann Marie Boyer Zelt

Board Secretary

B.S. from Ball State University

Ann Boyer Zelt, B.S., has been on the Board of Directors (BOD) since 2005 and is one of the founding members of the organization. Ann was the President of the BOD from 2011-15 and is now a Juvenile Probation Officer for the Allen Superior Court. She has been working with the youth in our community for over 28 years.

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Mandy Rispoli

Board Member

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Amy Thompson

Finance Committee Chair and Board Member

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Andy Beckman

Board Member

Andy Beckman has been a morning radio personality in the Fort Wayne area for over 12 years and currently works for Federated Media on 97.3 WMEE. Andy works along local business and community leaders to develop local marketing campaigns and raise money for local charities and radio station promotions. He has a M.B.A from Indiana Wesleyan University and a B.A. in Telecommunications from Ball State University.