Human Development Center

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

Currently, I serve on the Board for Bayouland Families Helping Families and I am the founder and President of The Chosen Ones Foundation here in St. Charles Parish with a mission to promote understanding, acceptance and inclusion of autistic individuals by providing education, advocacy, and support; where we are dedicated to empowering those individuals and their families through resources, community programs , and initiatives that support neurodiversity.

In the past, I served on St. Charles Parish Public Schools Special Education Advisory Committee and I am a 2025 LDDC Partners in Policymaking Change Agent Graduate.

Goals for your LEND training experience:

During my LEND training experience, here are a few important goals I plan to attain;

• a deeper knowledge of neurodevelopmental and related disabilities
• develop a project or initiative that addresses an unmet need in my community
• working effectively with professionals from other fields
• identifying mentors who can support my purpose beyond the LEND year
• learning how to influence policy at the local, state, and national level
• connect with self-advocates and family advocates to broaden my perspective
• practice public speaking and communication to share stories and advocate effectively
• build a strong professional network with peers, mentors, and disability leaders
• strengthen my ability to navigate complex systems and remove barriers to care

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

As a parent of a child with a neurodevelopmental disability and a committed advocate, I aim to bridge the gap between families and professionals by bringing lived experience into the forefront of service design and policy. My future contributions will focus on advancing family-centered, culturally responsive, and equitable systems of care. I am dedicated to empowering parents with the knowledge and tools to navigate complex systems, fostering community inclusion, and promoting meaningful participation for individuals with disabilities across the lifespan. Through advocacy, mentorship, and collaboration, I will work to ensure that all voices—especially those from underserved communities—are heard, valued, and reflected in lasting systems change.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

I have over four years of experience as a behavior therapist in applied behavior analysis (ABA), providing both 1:1 and group services to children and young adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. My work emphasizes acceptance-based approaches, focusing on emotional regulation, adaptive living skills, communication, and self-advocacy, especially for individuals with complex needs that society does not always tailor to or fully accommodate. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in occupational therapy, intending to blend OT and ABA to create more holistic, person-centered interventions. I also have lived experience as a sibling of an individual with autism and schizophrenia, which has shaped my empathy, understanding, and advocacy for people with unique and often overlooked challenges. My professional background includes collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, supporting inclusive education, and advocating for person-centered, dignified care.

Goals for your LEND training experience

My goal is to expand my skills in leadership, advocacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve systems of care for all individuals, but especially those with neurodevelopmental disabilities and mental health conditions. I want to deepen my knowledge in cultural competency, family engagement, and policy advocacy, while strengthening my ability to bridge the worlds of occupational therapy and ABA. I hope to develop practical strategies for improving access to services, enhancing quality of life, and supporting individuals and families in navigating systems that may not be designed with their needs in mind.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

I aim to contribute by serving as both a clinician and an advocate, helping create inclusive, strengths-based environments where individuals can thrive, even when their needs fall outside of societal expectations. I want to use my dual perspective as a professional and family member to influence policy, improve service delivery, and promote acceptance-based practices that prioritize dignity and autonomy. Long term, I hope to mentor future practitioners, advance research and training in acceptance-based interventions, and continue advocating for equity and accessibility in healthcare, education, and community life.

Anna Arno

Delgado Health Science Curriculum

Past/current experiences working in the field of disability

In my entire life of school, I have worked with physical therapists, occupational therapists, 
speech therapists an social workers. I saw what they did to help me and as I grew older, I knew what to 
ask for.

Goals for your LEND training experience

I want to learn more about how to advocate for people who have disabilities. I want to help 
them make the world around them more accessible. In this way, they can succeed in life.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

In the future, i hope to help people with disabilities and teach others how to work with people 
who have disabilities

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

I was a kindergarten teacher in an inclusive classroom setting in Boston for two years, and then worked in research at the Learning and Emotional Assessment program at Massachusetts General Hospital, a child neuropsychology clinic. During that time, I received my master’s in Human Development and Psychology at Harvard Graduate School of Education. I am now a 4^th year School Psychology doctoral student at Tulane University and am passionate about early intervention and early childhood special education.

Goals for your LEND training experience

1. Deepen my understanding of child and family experiences with the many ecosystems they navigate.
2. Learn more about how to interact with policy makers.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

My research broadly focuses on ways to improve the system of care for young children with disabilities and their families. I hope to specifically contribute research that improves the communication between the many settings that young children receive their services in – particularly hospitals, early childhood care and education, and homes. In my practice, I hope to use best practice assessment to deliver strengths-based information to families and their care teams in order to guide high-quality intervention.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

Hello, my name is Ben Blanchard. I am a second-year graduate student at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. I graduated from LSU Baton Rouge with a bachelor’s degree in 2024 and expect to complete my master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology in May 2026. 

Through my clinical practice in graduate school, I’ve had the opportunity to work with individuals with autism and Down syndrome in both the school system and private practice settings. These experiences have been foundational in shaping my passion for working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities. I’ve seen firsthand the importance of meeting each client where they are, celebrating their unique qualities, and giving them a voice to express themselves and share new ideas. I believe that a diagnosis should never define a person’s potential, and that all individuals — regardless of communication differences — deserve equal access to support, resources, and opportunities that promote independence and self-advocacy.

Goals for your LEND training experience

I’m excited to be part of the Louisiana LEND program to strengthen my skills in advocacy, policy, and interdisciplinary collaboration, which will enhance my ability to serve individuals with disabilities and their families.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

I am also interested in looking deeper into research and speaking with legislators on the state and federal level. This program will prepare me to provide high-quality, compassionate care while deepening my understanding of the challenges these individuals face.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

My current experience in the field of disabilities is rooted in my personal journey as a parent to twin three-year-olds diagnosed with autism. While navigating the resources and supports available for my children, I have taken the initiative to educate myself extensively about autism, its challenges, and the systems that serve individuals on the spectrum.

Goals for your LEND training experience

My goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse obstacles individuals with disabilities encounter. I am particularly interested in learning more about the current policies that affect both individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. By deepening my knowledge in these areas, I aim to identify policy gaps and contribute to advancing initiatives that promote equity, accessibility, and meaningful support.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

My long-term vision is to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families of children with disabilities by connecting them with valuable resources within their communities. I also aspire to create a national support network for parents of children with autism, providing a platform for them to share experiences, exchange resources, and offer mutual encouragement.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

1. During my college years, the most influential experience came from interning at Village Kidz Early Learning Center and WIC Clinic for two summers. My purpose was to incorporate a reputable curriculum model that would increase academic retention, advocate for inclusivity to effectively engage with peers, and create individualized/group plans that determine the most productive learning style for students with and without learning disabilities.
2. I researched methodologies, developed lesson plans, and formulated study guides for incoming daycare instructors to implement in classroom instruction.
3. Additionally, I observed children’s behavior and assessed their needs based on classroom participation and engagement. Assistance was provided to instructors with infants and toddlers ranging from ages six months to three years old. The research was presented by the Village’s owner to the Capital Area Human Services District which thoroughly displayed and detailed the newly formed curriculum for the center’s upcoming school year.
4. From being a Vacation Bible School Teacher, Homework Clinic volunteer, special needs after school mentor, daycare teacher and WIC Clinic intern, my time has been thoroughly invested into enhancing the lives of young people.

Goals for your LEND training experience

1. An immersion into diverse experiences and opportunities directed my path toward pursuing clinical medicine and researching psychopathological methodologies.
2. Enhancing children's and families' lives is paramount to creating a paradigm shift in overall care, wellness, and assistance.
3. An investment of time, effort and resources will be dedicated to mentoring children, adolescents, and young adults with academic stressors, spiritual guidance, and productive lifestyle habits.
4. This program allows me to expound on my studies and interest in helping those with developmental disabilities and mental disorders.
5. Hands-on experiences, extensive research, and collaborative efforts with peers and experts will expose me to psychological methodologies and enhanced perspectives about the specialization

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

1. Currently, I aspire to become a Clinical Child Psychologist specializing in trauma, depression, anxiety, and developmental disorders.
2. As an active member, I plan to learn, apply, and advocate for the things I research and practice.
3. Through policy and advocacy, I want to implement legislation and innovative methods that are geared toward the wants and needs of my groups.
4. Education is an important factor determining future therapists and psychologists’ adequate treatment of their patients. As someone who oversees the clinical training of future therapists, I aspire to implement researched methodologies to enhance a student’s ability to apply learned concepts.
5. As a family member, implementing my clinical expertise will carry over into educating my community about resources, data, and information available for the desired need.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

I serve as a legislative assistant, helping connect constituents to resources, support community initiatives, and address local concerns affecting families, including those with disabilities. I serve on the Monroe City School Special Education Advisory Board, the boards of Family Helping Families of Northeast Louisiana, Disability Rights of Louisiana, and the Northeast Louisiana Autism Society, as well as the Regional Advisory Committee for Northeast Delta Human Services Authority (NEDHSA) and the OCDD State Advisory Committee. As the parent of a son with autism, I bring both lived and professional perspectives to my advocacy. I also founded Tristin’s TRACKS, a nonprofit providing emergency preparedness resources, disability safety kits, inclusive community training, outings, and peer support for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Goals for your LEND training experience

To strengthen my leadership skills, expand my knowledge of evidence-based strategies and policy development, and build partnerships that improve systems of care. I aim to bring back innovative ideas to expand services and opportunities for people with disabilities in my region.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

To remain a strong voice for individuals with disabilities, especially in rural and underserved areas. My priorities include expanding Tristin’s TRACKS regionally, improving access to resources, creating more inclusive community opportunities, and influencing policy to improve education, healthcare, and emergency preparedness. I am committed to ensuring all individuals and families feel heard, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

I'm a proud mother and advocate on a mission to turn lived experience into sustainable systems change. My five-year-old daughter, born on Christmas Day, is joyful, curious, and my greatest teacher. Because of her, I’ve learned to navigate complex systems like special education, disability services, and caregiver supports, and now I'm committed to helping other families do the same.
I currently serve on Louisiana's State Advisory Panel for Special Education, where I help shape policies that impact thousands of families. My strategic advocacy has resulted in increased accessibility initiatives and strengthened support networks across the state's diverse communities.
As a 2024 Partners in Policymaking graduate, a 2024 40 Under 40 honoree, and an alumna of AmeriCorps VISTA, I bring a unique blend of grassroots organizing and institutional knowledge. My capacity-building experience, enhanced by my work at LSU Shreveport, allows me to create innovative solutions that bridge the gap between policy and practice. I am committed to building coalitions that drive sustainable change and consistently center equity for marginalized families.

Goals for your LEND training experience

I’m leveraging LEND to strengthen my ability to advocate at the systems level while expanding my impact as a thought leader in disability policy and family-centered reform. My goals include mastering data-driven advocacy techniques, building interdisciplinary leadership skills, and deepening my understanding of neurodevelopmental disabilities and public health frameworks. I’m particularly focused on creating caregiver-centered programs that are scalable and replicable models that don’t just work locally but can influence state and national policy. Through this training, I also hope to design training programs that prepare the next generation of family advocates and policy changemakers.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

I wish to contribute as a hands-on solution-builder, creating better systems for families who feel overwhelmed and overlooked. My future is focused on leveraging my experience to shape policies that truly support caregivers, improve services, and hold institutions accountable.
Whether I'm serving on a statewide advisory panel or organizing a community event, my core mission is to make sure our stories lead directly to tangible change. I'm not trying to be the face of a movement, but I am committed to being the person who ensures the right conversations happen in the right rooms, ultimately helping families speak up, find resources faster, and feel a stronger sense of community and support.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

My name is Amber Parks. Over the past several years, I have dedicated my education, career, and service work to supporting children with autism and other developmental differences, with a focus on equity, accessibility, and culturally responsive care. My passion lies in bridging communication gaps and ensuring that all children—regardless of background—have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

My professional experiences span a variety of roles that center on communication, behavior, and inclusion. I currently work as a registered behavior technician at an autism clinic, an assistant track coach, and a graduate student in Speech-Language Pathology at Xavier University of Louisiana, where I maintain a 4.0 GPA. My work also includes volunteering at pediatric clinics, leading social skills groups to highlight community issues, and advocacy efforts. I have shadowed at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, participated in cultural immersion programs in Taiwan and Ghana, and continue to expand my linguistic abilities in Spanish and Chinese to serve diverse families.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree with a minor in Spanish and will graduate next year with my Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology. Following graduation, I plan to return to school to earn a second Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, combining both disciplines to address the needs of children in low-income and underserved communities.

Goals for your LEND training experience

My goal for LEND is to deepen my understanding of advocacy and strengthen my ability to support families through informed, empathetic, and collaborative care.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

I hope to use this experience to advance inclusive practices, improve access to services, and become a resource not only for my clients and colleagues but also for communities that may be unfamiliar with the supports available to them.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

I have not directly worked in the field of disabilities. My experience comes from being a mother to a beautiful and intelligent 6-year-old boy with Autism. Since I’ve been on this journey, I’ve learned how to advocate and become an ally with organizations that can provide my family with resources.

Goals for your LEND training experience

My main goal for Lend is to come out a better and more well informed person for my son and families that I help along as well. I want to learn more about the history of the disability movement and how I can help make the future more accessible and inclusive. My last goal, is to really help my paycheck person along their journey and provide any assistance that I can.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

I wish to contribute my lived experiences as a parent and advocate. I also wish to lend my voice and speak up and out for those who may not be able to.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

I am currently completing my counseling internship at a charter school in New Orleans, working with 4th through 8th graders. This experience allows me to provide direct support for children navigating developmental, emotional, and behavioral challenges in an educational setting. In addition, I have trained at the Child and Family Counseling Clinic at LSU, applying trauma-informed care, emotional intelligence principles, and practical problem-solving to address both immediate needs and systemic barriers. My personal experiences navigating complex family and social challenges also provide me with a unique perspective on resilience, advocacy, and empowerment in the context of disability.

Goals for your LEND training experience

Through LEND, I hope to expand both my clinical and systemic understanding of disability care. I want to learn how to integrate evidence-based mental health interventions with practical strategies for supporting children, adolescents, and families, particularly those navigating trauma and complex social challenges. I aim to strengthen my interdisciplinary collaboration skills, deepen my knowledge of neurodevelopmental and mental health disabilities, and gain hands-on experience in advocacy and policy-informed practices. Ultimately, I want to emerge from this program better equipped to create meaningful, real-world impact for individuals with disabilities and the systems that serve them.

What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

I hope to contribute practical, accessible strategies that help children, families, and professionals develop emotional intelligence and essential life skills, including self-awareness, emotional regulation, and effective communication. I am focused on creating inclusive ways to teach these skills so that individuals can navigate challenges, build resilience, and strengthen relationships. I also aspire to mentor other professionals in integrating these approaches into trauma-informed care, helping to create systems and programs where individuals with disabilities are supported, understood, and empowered to thrive.

Past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities

I am the Vice President of LSUSD’s Special Care Dentistry Association (SCDA) chapter where I help promote the organization’s mission of promoting oral health and well-being for individuals with developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities while also providing educational opportunities for future oral health care professionals. I also help co-run LSUSD’s Special Care Clinic – a space that the school has recently opened to specifically treat individuals with disabilities. Outside of the clinic, I am a long-time volunteer with the Geaux Strong program through Women’s Center for Wellness, GiGi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Center, and Special Olympics Special Smiles.

Goals for your LEND training experience and What do you wish to contribute, in the future, as a professional/self-advocate/family member in the field?

As a Louisiana LEND Scholar, I hope to gain new perspective and knowledge that will allow me to create a safe space for all my future patients, to provide quality care to patients of all backgrounds and abilities, and ultimately to be an advocate amongst my peers within the dental community. I also hope to gain valuable interprofessional relationships to ensure that my patients are treated as a whole and that the proper resources can be provided to each person.