After our son Ben was diagnosed with Autism at age 3, my husband and I found that the most rewarding and successful experiences happen when we allow a child’s natural skills, interests and creative passions to flourish. In 2017, our family business, Modernica, hosted the first annual Welcome to My World Art Show, celebrating artists on the Autism Spectrum. Now in its 5th year, the art show works with ECF Art Centers to bring in new Neurodiverse artists. Our collaboration with Ed Lynch, Mychal’s Learning Place and the Department of Rehabilitation has led to a successful job training program for adults on the Spectrum at our Modernica Furniture Factory in LA. I was a participant in an innovative program for developmental disabilities in Israel in 2012, and throughout my son's life we have participated in numerous surveys and studies at UCLA as well as in the genetic Autism study, SPARK. As an LAUSD teacher, peer and private math tutor, Lindamood-Bell reading teacher, and camp counselor, I have always gained great fulfillment from helping others master new skills and experience the joy of learning. I have a BA from UCLA in English Literature and an MBA from Pepperdine.