Susan has been serving and advocating for youth and young adults who have disabilities for over two decades in AZ in many different capacities. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Human Development/Family Studies from Indiana University, and her Master’s degree in Social Work from ASU. She began her career path in the disability field as a job developer for a provider agency in AZ in 1999 serving individuals with a variety of disabilities. She then became a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, where she gained a wonderful foundation for supporting youth and young adults in establishing their transition goals and developing their career paths. She has also had the pleasure of working as a public-school Transition Coordinator, a Transition Specialist for the ADE, and the Director of Transition Initiatives for the Sonoran UCEDD.
During her time with the UCEDD she facilitated the AZ Employment First Initiative and, along with the collaborative partners, was able to secure the first ever Employment First Executive Order with the Governor’s office.
Susan continues to stay active, locally and nationally, in work that involves or addresses youth in transition. She serves on a variety of committees and is currently a co-chair for the ADE Special Education Advisory Panel.
In her current role, as the Executive Director of Diverse Ability Incorporated, she has the great honor of serving as an advocate and champion, alongside youth, to support the development of current and future Arizona Youth Leaders who have disabilities.