Staff
The Autism Society of Ohio’s staff remains steadfast in supporting individuals across the autism spectrum throughout the state, aiming to foster connections, empower individuals, and provide access to necessary resources for full participation in society
Ginny Bryan
I & R Coordinator
614-495-7551 / info@autismohio.org
Ginny Bryan serves as the Information and Referral Coordinator at the Autism Society of Ohio, a role she has held since January 2012. A graduate of Denison University, Ginny resides in Columbus, Ohio, where she balances her professional responsibilities with being a devoted wife and mother of three boys, Emmett, Tommy, and Pierson. Drawing from her personal experience as a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, Ginny brings firsthand knowledge and empathy to her work. She is deeply committed to making a positive impact in the autism community, taking pride in the difference she and her colleagues are making in the lives of individuals and families they serve.
The Autism Society of Ohio is guided by a dynamic Board of Directors, committed to empowering individuals and celebrating the diversity within our community, ensuring every voice is heard and valued.
Kathi Machle
- Board President
Kathi is an attorney-at-law whose practice focus shifted dramatically following her son’s diagnosis with Autism in 1995. At that time, few programs, supports, or services were available, prompting her to become an advocate for him and others like him. Recently retired as Managing Director of Autism Society Central Ohio, Kathi continues to volunteer to pay it forward. She has developed numerous presentations and resources to aid families on their journey with Autism and to foster understanding and inclusion in schools, organizations, institutions, and the broader community.
Christina Urban
- Board Treasurer
Treasurer, Autism Society of Greater Cleveland
Christina dedicates her time as the Board Treasurer for both the Autism Society of Ohio and the Autism Society of Greater Cleveland. In her professional career, she serves as Assistant Vice President – Analytics at NFP, a prominent property and casualty broker, benefits consultant, wealth manager, and retirement plan advisor. With over two decades of experience, Christina has held various roles, including Director of Underwriting, Analytics & Data Management at Employee Benefits International and IT Coordinator at Benefits Resource Group. A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, Christina’s commitment to supporting individuals and families affected by autism extends beyond her professional endeavors, demonstrating her passion for community engagement and advocacy.
Kate Schwartz
- Board Secretary
Kate is a compassionate leader dedicated to providing crucial support and resources to families in need. A graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and post-graduate work in Human Resources, Kate assumed the role of Program Director at ASNO in 2018, following over a decade of professional volunteerism for disability-focused organizations.
Previously, she was a program coordinator at Bowling Green State University, facilitating connections between parents and students to navigate the challenges of raising children with special needs. Kate’s involvement with the Chronic Care Connection team underscores her commitment to breaking down barriers in the medical profession. Passionate about empowering caregivers and advocating for children, Kate and her husband, Bryan, are parents to two children, Emily and Michael, both on the Autism spectrum.
Laurie Cramer
Executive Director, Autism Society of Greater Akron
Laurie has spearheaded initiatives to empower individuals and families within the Autism community for over two decades. With a bachelor’s degree in communications from Florida State University and a master’s degree in organizational development from George Washington University, she served in various roles within national energy-related associations and public affairs firms in Washington, D.C
She later was spokesperson for the Summit County Prosecutor’s office. Transitioning from volunteer to ASGA’s inaugural staff member in 2011, Laurie has guided ASGA’s evolution into a professional organization with diverse revenue streams. Achievements include founding ASGA’s signature fundraiser, expanding programs, and developing the Autism Friendly Communities program. She continues to drive fundraising, cultivate board engagement, and lead impactful programs, ensuring ASGA remains a vital resource in Greater Akron. Laurie resides in Fairlawn, OH, with her husband and two sons, one of whom is on the Autism spectrum.
Thomas McKean
- Author & Autism Advocate
Thomas has devoted his life to championing autism awareness and support. After personally encountering the challenges of autism in his youth, he pursued higher education, excelling in computer science at Parkland College while earning his GED. His journey has been defined by resilience and advocacy, as he traveled extensively as a consultant, speaker, and one of the original advocates for autism awareness. Thomas served two terms on the national board of the Autism Society of America, significantly shaping global understanding of the disorder.
His literary contributions, notably the award-winning book “Soon Will Come the Light,” garnered national attention, including features on platforms like Oprah Winfrey. Today, Thomas resides in Hilliard, OH, actively engaged in social media and contributing to autism-related publications. As a board member, he continues his mission to advocate for individuals with autism, leaving an enduring impact on the community.
Elizabeth Redmon
President, Autism Society of Dayton
Elizabeth has dedicated over a decade of service to the Western Ohio Autism community. In addition to her advocacy, she has been a Fair Housing Specialist at the Miami Valley Fair Housing Center for 14 years, ensuring equal access for all. Her nephews’ autism sparked her involvement in the Autism Society, as she sought to deepen her understanding and provide support to affected families.
Additionally, she served as a paralegal for Legal Aid of Western Ohio, advocating for underserved communities. She earned an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science from Sinclair Community College’s American Bar Association-approved paralegal program, so she pursued extensive training in disability awareness and accessibility. Recently appointed to the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Elizabeth aims to positively impact lives, embodying her commitment to inclusivity and advocacy in the community.
Robin Suzelis
- Director, Autism Society of Mahoning Valley
Robin leveraged her experience as an active affiliate Board member into the role of organizational director in 2021. She leads programs and services and serves as an Information & Referral Specialist, providing vital resources to families and local professionals.
Beyond her role with the Autism Society, Robin is a co-owner of the Ohio Naturopathic Wellness Center in Boardman, contributing to marketing and customer service efforts. With a background in real estate and technology, specializing in communications and marketing, Robin earned a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Clarion University.
As a mother of two boys on the autism spectrum and a resident of the Valley for over 15 years, Robin is deeply committed to advocating for families. Continuously expanding her knowledge through seminars and conferences, she aims to enhance local programs and foster collaboration among organizations and businesses, striving to provide the best opportunities for Mahoning Valley autism families.