The New England Center for Children President and CEO Jessica Sassi, PhD, BCBA-D, LABA, was recently appointed and sworn in as a member of the Massachusetts Commission on Autism.
In August 2014, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts enacted landmark legislation Ch. 226 of the Acts of 2014, the “Autism Omnibus Law,” which established the Autism Commission as a permanent entity. According to the Commonwealth, Dr. Sassi is one of 35 members charged with “making recommendations on policies impacting individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome.”
“I am honored to have been selected to serve on the prestigious Commission on Autism and look forward to sharing what I have learned from more than 20 years working in the field,” shared Dr. Sassi. “I am privileged for this opportunity to serve individuals with autism across the Commonwealth. Our mission at NECC closely aligns with the Commonwealth’s goal of ensuring individuals with ASD are afforded every opportunity possible for a fulfilling life.”
The Commission is also responsible for investigating the range of services necessary for individuals with ASD to achieve full potential, including issues related to public and higher education, employment, adult services, independent living, housing, social and recreational opportunities, mental health, behavioral services, and more.