The Board’s responsibilities include: governing OAR, setting OAR’s research direction, approving all plans for funding research and operating OAR, raising funds to support OAR’s programs and activities, and ensuring that OAR’s business and fiscal practices are sound and well-managed. All members of the Board are volunteers and receive no compensation for their service.
OAR welcomes applications from prospective Board members. Anyone interested in serving on OAR’s Board of Directors should contact OAR Executive Director, Kristen Essex, via e-mail, or phone, (703) 243-9717
James M. Sack, Esquire
Chairman
The Sack Law Firm, LLC
McLean, VA
OAR is the last and final organizational stop in Jim’s journey with autism that began when his daughter, Dana, then his son, James, were diagnosed with autism. Like every parent of a child with autism he knows, Jim and his wife learned everything they could about autism and did everything they could to provide the most complete treatment regimen for their children.
His path took him to serve as a member of the Autism Society of America’s Board of Directors, then as the Vice Chairman of the ASA Foundation, before founding OAR and serving as its Chairman since 2001. He is pleased to say that Dana and James, now well into their adulthood, have lives that include work each enjoys and the continued love and support of their family.
Jim says, “We founded OAR because we wanted to focus more attention and funds on autism and autism research related to the everyday challenges it presents children like mine and others impacted by autism.” He is proud of what OAR has been able to do in such a relatively short span and looks forward to continuing to add to its body of purposeful accomplishments with each passing year.
“Because of the clear sense of mission, OAR is doing valuable stuff now which has a direct impact on the lives of my two children with autism, Dana and James.”
―Jim Sack
Michael Kotowski
Treasurer
Retired Audit Executive
Sterling, VA
Mike is a former accountant and audit executive who now spends his days enjoying time with his wife, Erica, and their autistic son, Matthew. Matthew was diagnosed with autism in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, making it even more difficult to navigate the early days of the diagnosis. Mike is enthusiastic about OAR’s mission and helping to enhance the lives of the members of the autistic community. Mike also enjoys being outdoors – hiking, backpacking and fly fishing are among his favorite activities.
Most recently, Mike worked professionally as the VP of Internal Audit and Corporate Governance at NVR, Inc., one of the nation’s largest homebuilders. He ran the internal audit department and was also responsible for corporate governance and sustainability/ESG reporting for the Fortune 500 company. Prior to that, Mike spent 14 years as an auditor with PwC in both St. Louis, MO and McLean, VA.
Mike is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, where he received both BSBA and MSBA degrees in Accounting. He is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive) licensed in Missouri and Virginia.
“OAR’s focus on helping members of the autism community throughout their lives, not just as children, is of critical importance.”
―Mike Kotowski
Kristen Essex
Secretary
Executive Director, Organization for Autism Research
Arlington, VA
Kristen came to OAR in 2015 with an extensive professional background that included insurance sales, the restaurant industry, and newspaper and small business management. In her initial role as Business Manager and later with her 2018 promotion to Deputy Executive Director, she managed OAR’s day-to-day operations, human resources, and finances. As of December 2022, Kristen is proud to serve as OAR’s Executive Director.
Kristen is a native of the Washington metropolitan area. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics/Business from Randolph-Macon College and a Masters of Nonprofit Management from Regis University.
In her off time, Kristen enjoys to read, hike with her dogs, and spend time with family and friends.
“I am honored and excited to support OAR’s mission not only as Executive Director but also as part of OAR’s board. OAR’s focus on applied research and evidence-based resources truly helps autistic individuals, their families, caregivers, and educators live better lives today. I appreciate any opportunity to carry out that mission and see its impact. ”
―Kristen Essex
Assiya Ashraf-Miller
Vice President of International Operations, ANG
Washington, DC
Assiya Ashraf-Miller is Vice President of International Operations and a retired Senior Foreign Service Officer who served more than 25 years with the U.S. Department of State. She has served in board governance and advisory roles, contributing to strategic direction and oversight for professional organizations and educational institutions.
Assiya holds a Master of Business Administration in Finance and Human Resources and a Master of Arts in Government. She is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), and brings deep expertise in organizational transformation, international operations, and strategic communications. She is multilingual, a writer, and has served as a strategic advisor on risk management and complex operational, policy, and organizational challenges.
Assiya has supported the Organization for Autism Research (OAR) for several years as a Navigator, Scholarship Reviewer, Regional Ambassador, and fundraising advocate. Through this work, she has helped connect individuals on the autism spectrum to meaningful opportunities and advance public awareness and deepen understanding. Assiya is committed to service and philanthropy, actively supporting local and national organizations and serving as a Collective Leader with the International Rescue Committee.
As the parent of a late-diagnosed autistic daughter, her connection to OAR’s mission is deeply personal. Like many parents navigating uncertainty, Assiya’s journey has been one of reflection, growth, and learning. Through that experience, she came to understand how critical early awareness, accessible information, and evidence-based support are in shaping outcomes. Her perspective bridges professional leadership and lived experience, informing her advocacy for practical, accessible resources that empower individuals and families. That perspective continues to shape her commitment to helping others access the tools and guidance that can make a meaningful difference.
“Like many parents, I didn’t have all the answers in the beginning, and that uncertainty can be unsettling. What I found through the Organization for Autism Research was more than research – it was clarity, direction, and guidance I could actually use. OAR has a rare ability to bridge science and lived experience, turning complex knowledge into tools that people can act on. As a board member, my goal is to help extend that reach so more individuals and families find their way to OAR’s resources earlier, with greater confidence and the support they deserve.”
―Assiya Ashraf-Miller
Roberto T. Datorre
Executive Vice President, Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School
Harrisburg, PA
Roberto is executive vice president for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School (CCA), a public cyber charter school in Pennsylvania serving over 9000 students across the state (www.ccaeducate.me). In his role, Roberto supports the school’s board, administrators, teachers, and other staff in creating and delivering innovative programs to educate and help prepare children for life after graduation from high school.
Roberto and his wife, Elizabeth, have three children – Catherine, RJ, and Christian. RJ was diagnosed with autism when he was four, although Elizabeth, who is a physical therapist specializing in helping children with physical and intellectual disabilities, observed clear symptoms of RJ’s autism long before he was formally diagnosed. RJ’s autism diagnosis led Roberto and Elizabeth to support RUN FOR AUTISM when they both took an interest in long-distance running in their late 30s. In addition to being a regular runner, Roberto enjoys swimming and engaging the Scouting activities with his children.
Roberto was born in Lima, Peru, and he moved to Miami Beach, Florida, as an infant with his family. He earned a BA in Business Administration from the University of Florida and a JD from the University of Miami School of Law. Roberto began his career as an assistant city attorney for the City of Miami Beach, Florida. He moved to Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, in 2005 after accepting a position with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania where he served as legal counsel for 13 years prior to joining CCA.
Christopher DeMay, CPA
Tax Partner, Aprio, LLP
Walnut Creek, CA
Chris grew up on the East Coast in Springfield, VA, attending Paul VI High School in Fairfax, Virginia. After high school, he went to the University of Alabama and then relocated to California following graduation. He is a tax partner for Aprio, LLP, a national accounting and advisory firm.
Chris first became aware of autism early on when his cousin’s twin boys were born, both with autism. In his early thirties, his family lost their first child afflicted with a chromosome ring disorder. Inspired by his community’s support as his family navigated their daughter’s affliction. Chris joined the board for the Chromosome Deletion Outreach. Five years later, he joined the Special Kids Foundation, which worked on providing specialized services to the special needs community in east Contra Costa County, California.
Chris applied for Special Haven’s 501(c)(3) status a decade ago. Special Haven provides a multi-sensory environment for the benefit and development of children and adults with Special Needs.
Chris was also directly impacted by autism in 2023 when his then 17-year-old was given the diagnosis. The affliction of autism was masked by his son’s heightened intelligence, which eventually gave way when he began to struggle in his junior year of high school. The late diagnosis continues to impact his family as they look for programs and resources that will help prepare their son for his adult life.
Chris found a love for running late in life. On his bucket list was to run in the New York Marathon, and OAR made it happen in 2018!! And in 2019, 2023, and 2024. His father also joined OAR to do the NYM run, though his training ended in double bypass surgery. His family was incredibly touched when they visited his father in the hospital, and later at his home.
One of Chris’s family values that began when they lost their daughter in 2004 was information is key to making the best decisions. He hopes to serve our community by being a conduit for the education of our community.
“I hope to help families today with education and awareness”
―Chris DeMay
Cathy Schwallie Farmer
Startup Co-Founder, Advisor & Software Consultant
Berkeley, CA
Cathy Schwallie Farmer has been in software development and technology for over 25 years, mostly focusing on HealthIT. Cathy is an angel investor and serial entrepreneur (Schwallie Farmer Consulting, eSponte (HR Compliance automation), Brainotion (Autism Robotics) & PodCast TalkITTech). Cathy is an active Venture Board Advisor at the University of California, Berkeley’s SkyDeck, LAUNCH, and Arrow Capital.
Cathy is part of a group/accelerator of Tech professionals of family members with autism/Asperger’s, connecting on ideas and opportunities for Tech improvements for their loved ones. Cathy also is on the Board of Directors for Autism Center of Northern California.
She is an active volunteer for Special Olympics of Northern California and teaches catechism at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Berkeley often including at least one child on the spectrum.
Cathy received a bachelor’s from the University of Massachusetts, Boston in Computer Science and Math. She resides in Berkeley, California, and is the mother of two adult children, and sister of two brothers on the spectrum, one of whom has Asperger’s and lives and works independently and the other lives in a group home at Eden’s of NJ.
“The Schwallie Foundation is incredibly proud to support the OAR Schwallie Family Scholarship. Reading the applications is inspiring every year.”
―Cathy Schwallie Farmer
Peter Gerhardt, Ed.D.
Scientific Council Chair
Executive Director, EPIC School
Paramus, NJ
Peter Gerhardt, Ed.D., is the Executive Director of the EPIC School in Paramus, NJ. Peter has more than 35 years of experience utilizing the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis in support of adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorders in educational, employment, residential and community-based settings. He has authored and co-authored articles and book chapters on the needs of adolescents and adults with ASD and has presented nationally and internationally on this topic. Peter is the Founding Chairman of the Scientific Council for the Organization for Autism Research and currently leads the Council with Dr. Joanne Gerenser. He is on numerous professional advisory boards including the Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies. Peter received his doctorate from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey’s Graduate School of Education.
Deborah Hammer
Self-Advocacy Advisory Council Chair
Autism & Low Incidence Specialist, Arlington Public Schools
Arlington, VA
Deborah is the inaugural chair of OAR’s Self-Advocacy Advisory Council, having been a volunteer and contributing writer for OAR for many years. She has worked professionally for more than thirty years as and advocate and educator for neurodivergent students; for the last fifteen she has been in Arlington Public Schools.
She has spoken at numerous national and international conferences trainings on a variety of topics, including self-determination skills, student-centered IEPs and transition plans, interdependence, and how to implement inclusive programming for people with disabilities at State and National Parks.
Deborah is an appointed Disability Services Board member with her local government and served as chair for three terms. She is a member of the Virginia Autism Council and the Virginia Autism Leadership Initiative. Deborah chaired the Northern Virginia Transition Coalition and founded the Cool Aspies, a social club for neurodivergent adults. In her free time, she is a Virginia Master Naturalist and an active volunteer and board member of Bat Conservation and Rescue of Virginia.
“The creation of the Self-Advocacy Advisory Council demonstrates OAR’s commitment to hearing from authentic autistic voices in their goal of having a meaningful impact on the autism community. “
―Deborah Hammer
Jill Hoffman
External Affairs, Plaid
Alexandria, VA
Jill Hoffman is a seasoned financial services executive and advocate, advising and delivering high-impact outcomes at the highest levels of government and industry. She drives an Industry Relations function at Plaid, focused on connecting consumers, banks, and companies by powering digital financial services designed for the practical and evolving needs of today’s consumers. Her work reflects her personal passion for finding solutions to address complex challenges and create tangible impact for everyday individuals.
Her dedication to solving real-world challenges carries into her personal connection with autism, shaped by meaningful experiences advocating alongside autistic individuals in her family and community. Jill joined the Organization for Autism Research to help ensure resources and supports are practical, evidence-based, and make a real difference in the daily lives of autistic individuals and their families.
“Autism enriches our world in powerful ways, and OAR’s work ensures those gifts are better understood, supported, and valued.”
―Jill Hoffman
Brendan Hughes, CFA
Investment Advisor, Lafayette Investments
Frederick, MD
Brendan has more than a decade of industry experience in investments and public finance since graduating from James Madison University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance and Accounting. He is currently an Investment Advisor for Lafayette Investments, assisting in the investment decision-making process for equity portfolios and advising clients on topics such as asset allocation, long-term saving strategies, and tax efficiency. Brendan formerly worked as a Senior Analyst for Primatics Financial where he served as a consultant primarily for large banks, advising them on matters such as credit risk.
Brendan is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder. He has served on various boards and committees including the James Madison University College of Business Board of Advisors (former Associate Board Member), Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Maryland Chapter (Board Member), CanEducate (Board Member for a charitable organization that helps schools in developing countries such as Haiti), ZERV Inc. (former Board Member for a Canadian technology start-up that was acquired) and the Member Engagement Committee for CFA Society Washington D.C. (former Committee Member). Brendan is a two-time winner of the Tomorrow’s Leader Award for his contributions to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Brendan is the author of two books: Markets in Chaos: A History of Market Crises Around the World and The Wandering Investor.
Brendan was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of 35. Through his involvement with OAR, he seeks to be an advocate for autism research and awareness, while offering a different perspective to the Board of Directors. Having been diagnosed with autism as an adult, Brendan is continuing to learn about the impact autism has had on his daily life and is deeply passionate about autism research and awareness for what he believes is a condition that is often misunderstood.
“I am proud to be part of an organization that has such a profound impact on the autism community.”
-Brendan Hughes
Lisa M. Hussman, MBA, BA
President, Lisa Higgins Hussman Foundation
Ellicott City, MD
Lisa Hussman is the parent of an autistic adult son and an adult daughter. She has an MBA from Loyola College in Maryland. Lisa has served on OAR’s board since 2009. As OAR’s Scholarship Committee Chairwoman, she established the Lisa Higgins Hussman Scholarship Program in 2013. This scholarship supports students in Life Skills Programs as well as degree-seeking student programs.
She is the President of the Lisa Higgins Hussman Foundation, which has helped support OAR’s research, scholarships, and program guides, including the Kit For Kids. She has also participated, along with her nephews, in OAR’s RUN FOR AUTISM program.
Lisa has also served on the ARC of Howard County’s board for five years where she received their Presidents Award in 2013. She also received the ARC of Maryland’s volunteer of the year award in 2015.
“OAR’s programs have a great impact. It is especially rewarding to hear the success stories from the students who receive the Hussman, Schwallie, and Synchrony Scholarships.”
―Lisa M. Hussman
Ronda Peklar
Bio coming soon.
William Postalwait
Senior Experience Architect, Progressive
Seguin, TX
Will Postalwait is a customer experience and applied technology leader who focuses on helping organizations better understand and serve the people behind the process. His work centers on bridging the gap between what technology is designed to do and what individuals actually experience, with an emphasis on clarity, accessibility, and real-world value. He also owns and operates an executive search firm, helping connect talent to meaningful opportunities.
At his core, Will is a husband, father, and advocate who believes that a life lived for others is a life worthwhile. He is deeply committed to growth, purpose, and moving with intention, both at home and in the communities he serves. His perspective is grounded in lived experience, resilience, and a desire to make things better for others in tangible ways.
Will’s connection to autism is both personal and lived. As a father to a child on the spectrum, and as someone who is neurodivergent himself, he brings a deeply empathetic and informed perspective to this mission. He is actively involved in his local community, partnering with school districts and engaging with other families to raise awareness of available resources and advocate for more accessible, practical guidance for those navigating similar journeys.
Will is proud to be serving on the OAR board, helping advance a mission that reflects his values and lived experience. He is committed to ensuring that research turns into practical, real-world support for individuals and families.
“OAR is doing the kind of work that compounds, and I’m proud to be part of a movement that goes beyond awareness. As a dad, I think about what support looks like for my child today and when I’m no longer here. I care deeply about building a world where my child, and others like him, have support that lasts.”
―William Postalwait
Stephen Shore, Ed.D.
Assistant Professor at Adelphi University
Garden City, NY
Dr. Stephen Shore is a professor at Adelphi University where his research focuses on matching best practice to the needs of people with autism.
In addition to working with children and talking about life on the autism spectrum, Stephen is internationally renowned for presentations, consultations and writings on lifespan issues pertinent to education, relationships, employment, advocacy, and disclosure. His most recent book College for Students with Disabilities combines personal stories and research for promoting success in higher education.
A current board member of Autism Speaks, president emeritus of the Asperger’s Association of New England, and advisory board member of the Autism Society, Dr. Shore serves on the boards of the Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Association, The US Autism and Asperger Association, the Scientific Counsel of OAR, and other autism-related organizations.
“The potential of those of us on the autism spectrum is unlimited – just like with everyone else.”
―Stephen Shore
Gregory Smith
Lead Associate, Booz Allen Hamilton
Falls Church, VA
Gregory L. Smith is a Lead Associate at Booz Allen Hamilton (Booz Allen) in the Air Force Market in the Washington, DC area. Booz Allen is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the United States Government. Greg has been with Booz Allen since 1999 and prior to that he served 20 years in the Air Force in various positions to include: Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Launch Officer, ICBM Instructor/Evaluator, ICMB Plans Officer, Headquarters Air Force Budget Analyst, and Joint Staff nuclear command and control action officer.
Greg graduated from the United States Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management, the University of Central Missouri with a Masters of Science Degree in Industrial Safety, and Johns Hopkins University with a Masters’ of Science in Information Systems.
Greg and his wife reside in Lorton, Virginia, and have one adult daughter. Their daughter was born at 26 weeks and was diagnosed early on as having autism. She is currently an artisan making jewelry in a county day program.
In his spare time, Greg enjoys running, movies, and reading. His once-a-year run is the Marine Corps Marathon 10K event as a fund-raiser for OAR. Greg is honored to be a member of the OAR Board.
“OAR is about helping those who are dealing with a disability that defies easy comprehension, we are serving a greater good.”
―Gregory L. Smith
Joseph Mangalasseril Thomas
Financial Technology Teaching Assistant, Columbia University
Chicago, IL
Joseph Mangalasseril Thomas is a graduate of Miami University (Oxford, Ohio), and is currently pursuing a miniMBA from his alma mater. Along with his Board Member position, Joseph is currently a Management Consultant at RSM US LLP, and a Financial Technology Teaching Assistant at Columbia University.
Joseph is the older brother of James, younger brother of Jacob, and the son of Sherly & Tom. Joseph realized at a young age there will be a day when it is up to his older brother, Jacob, and himself to ensure their little brother, James, is safe, happy, and fully taken care of at all times. James was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) early in his youth. Throughout their lives, the family has leveraged resources, programs, and initiatives in order to provide James with a sound quality of life.
Joseph states he is blessed to have James be a large motivator in daily life. Joseph has been a Peer Coach for Special Olympics Basketball, Bowling, and has taken other roles in related opportunities in the Chicago area. Along with this, his leadership positions stretch across several organizations which include, Co-Founder, Chairman of The Board, two Presidencies, and four Director positions.
Joseph currently resides in Chicago, Illinois. In his spare time, he enjoys golfing, exploring the outdoors, living spontaneously, or cherishing his time with his family or friends.
“I’d like to thank OAR, my family, friends, and God for supporting me in this opportunity to finally begin my dream of helping others. I am blessed to be advising the organization and being a part of their positive impacts on individuals, and families,” says Joseph.
“OAR’s positive impacts, and determined mission have been a helping hand for my brother, James. I’m blessed to assist an organization I truly stand behind, and leverage in my personal life.”
―Joseph Mangalasseril Thomas
Edward H. Schwallie
Found Member (2001-2012); Member Emeritus (2012-2017)
Ed Schwallie (1984-2017) was one of the founding members of the Organization for Autism Research.
Ed received a BA from John Carroll University, and an MBA from Case Western Reserve both in Cleveland, Ohio. He had a long and wonderful career in Financial and Operational Management Consulting. Building up the Latin American Practice before taking on the key role of CFO for Booz Allen Hamilton, where he spent the majority of his career.
Ed was retired for over 20 years. Those 20 years allowed Ed to give back to support the causes and needs of those on the autism spectrum along with others with developmental issues. Ed served on many boards including Eden Autism (formerly named Eden Family of Services) and Our House (NJ group homes for those with developmental needs, which he founded). His knowledge of autism and finance gave him the ability to support the boards on multiple levels as well as start a foundation with the main purpose of helping those in need.
While his contributions to OAR over the years were many, the program that bears his family’s name, the Schwallie Family Scholarship, will forever testify to his vision, his great interest in adults with autism, and his undying belief in their potential to achieve and lead lives of meaning and quality. Established in 2007, the program offers financial support to young men and women with autism pursuing college studies or vocational-technical training after high school. It was then the only program of its kind in the United States. For this and more, OAR honored Ed as the first board member Emeritus in OAR’s 15-year history when he stepped down from the board in 2012. He remains the only person ever to receive that honor.
Ed lived in Manasquan, NJ with his wife Marge. Together they had six children, 11 grandchildren, and, at the time of his passing, three great-grandchildren. Ed was the father to two sons on the spectrum, one living with Asperger’s who lives and works independently, and the other living in a group home at Eden Autism, who works with supervision.
“Ed was instrumental in building OAR into the success it is today. The scholarship program, which bears his family’s name, endures as his living legacy and affirmation of his undying belief in the potential of autistic adults”
-Michael Maloney, OAR’s founding Executive Director
