The Autism Society of Mahoning Valley has appointed three new members to its board of directors, strengthening the organization’s leadership as it continues its mission to support autistic individuals and their families across the lifespan.

“We are proud to welcome these new board members at an important moment for our organization,” said Aundrea Cika Heschmeyer, board president of the ASMV. “Each brings professional expertise, lived experience, and a deep commitment to being the connection for individuals and families from diagnosis through every stage of life. Their leadership will help guide ASMV forward with strength, transparency and compassion.”

The new board members are:

• Ashley Douglas, a Youngstown native and Small Business Banking and SBA closing officer with WesBanco Bank, brings nearly two decades of experience in financial leadership and retail management. Her extensive community involvement includes serving as President of Alta Head Start’s Policy Council and continued board service with Alta Head Start and Behavioral Health. Douglas’ advocacy for individuals with autism began at an early age through volunteer work in local schools.

• Deonna Lampley is a Youngstown native and licensed social worker with degrees from Youngstown State University and Our Lady of the Lake University. Her professional experience includes advocacy, clinical and crisis work, and child and adolescent development. Lampley has been a volunteer with the ASMV for several years and brings a strong passion for community-centered support and family advocacy.

• Julie Santha is the accounting supervisor at Alta Care Group, Inc., with more than 10 years of experience in accounting, supervision and organizational leadership. A graduate of Youngstown State University, Santha brings a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency. As the mother of a child on the autism spectrum, she offers both professional expertise and lived experience to her role on the ASMV board.

The ASMV also announced its 2026 board officers, who will serve alongside the board of directors in advancing ASMV’s mission. They are Aundrea Cika Heschmeyer, president; Dr. Laura McBride, vice president; Ashley Roberts, treasurer; and ShoMore Wright, secretary.

For more about the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley and its programs, visit www.autismmv.org or contact info@autismmv.org.