Meet Our
Leadership Team
Arizona Autism United is led by a large group of dynamic professionals who ensure that every program and department are always focused on supporting our teammates and advancing our mission to help as many families as possible with individualized supports.
AZA United's
Executive Leadership Team
At the core of AZA United’s vision and strategy is the Executive Leadership Team. This group of deeply experienced clinicians and executives assume responsibility for ensuring that the organization fosters a culture of impact, compassion, efficiency and collaboration. As AZA United expands, our guiding values are to ensure that we Grow with Purpose and Bring People Together.
Aaron Blocher-Rubin, PhD, BCBA
President & CEO
Aaron Blocher-Rubin, PhD, BCBA
President & CEO
Dr. Aaron Blocher-Rubin serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Arizona Autism United (AZA United), which he founded in 2006. With more than 30 years of experience in autism services, his leadership has been instrumental in building AZA United into a leading nonprofit organization serving individuals and families across Arizona.
Dr. Blocher-Rubin holds a Ph.D. in Human Services from Capella University and an MBA in Healthcare from the University of Phoenix, and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). He has been actively engaged in professional leadership and advocacy, including serving as Past President of the Arizona Association for Behavior Analysis (AzABA) and as a current board officer for the Arizona Association of Providers for People with Disabilities (AAPPD).
His career in the field began over three decades ago at UCLA and continued at the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) before founding AZA United. Throughout his career, he has gained direct experience across nearly every aspect of service delivery and organizational operations, shaping his approach to leadership and innovation in nonprofit healthcare. His contributions have been recognized through awards including the Organization of Nonprofit Executives’ Nonprofit Director of the Year Award, the Arizona Top Workplaces’ Midsize Business Leadership Award, and the Phoenix Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Award.
Dr. Blocher-Rubin’s passion for autism services is deeply personal, inspired by his youngest brother’s diagnosis and the impact it had on his family. He is driven by a lifelong commitment to supporting children, families, and communities while building systems that create meaningful, lasting change. At AZA United, he is dedicated to fostering a mission-driven culture that emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and improving quality of life for everyone involved.
Outside of work Aaron enjoys playing musical instruments, going for neighborhood bike rides, and rooting for the Boston Celtics.
Jenifer Werntz, MBA
Chief Operations Officer
Jenifer Werntz, MBA
Chief Operations Officer
Jenifer Werntz serves as the Chief Operations Officer at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit operations and finance. She joined AZA United in 2007 and plays a critical role in building the operational infrastructure that supports the organization’s growth and long-term sustainability.
Jenifer holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Her extensive leadership experience includes developing systems and processes that strengthen organizational effectiveness, ensure compliance and regulatory readiness, and support facilities, asset management, and risk mitigation efforts.
Throughout her career, Jenifer has focused on creating scalable systems that enable organizations to grow while maintaining high standards of quality and accountability. She is particularly skilled in designing operational frameworks that align resources, processes, and teams to support mission-driven outcomes.
At AZA United, Jenifer is passionate about building sustainable systems that empower clinicians and frontline staff to deliver high-quality care. She values the opportunity to help the organization expand its reach and impact, ensuring more individuals and families affected by autism have access to critical services.
Jenifer is also actively involved in the community, currently serving as Board Treasurer for a nonprofit youth sports organization. Outside of work, she enjoys camping, cooking, and spending time with her family.
Paula Signorelli
Chief Financial Officer
Paula Signorelli
Chief Financial Officer
Paula Signorelli serves as the Chief Financial Officer at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing more than 29 years of financial leadership experience in nonprofit and social service organizations. She joined AZA United in 2023 and plays a key role in aligning financial strategy with the organization’s mission and long-term sustainability.
Paula holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Fresno, and has completed an Executive Women in Leadership Certificate program through Cornell University. Her career includes senior and executive leadership roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Strategy & Administrative Officer, Vice President of Finance, and Director of Business Operations/Finance, where she has partnered closely with executive teams and boards to provide financial oversight, support, governance, strategic planning, compliance, and organizational performance.
Throughout her career, Paula has led financial and operational initiatives across large, complex nonprofit organizations with operating budgets ranging from $25 million to $200 million. Her expertise includes financial planning and analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and contract negotiations within government-funded environments, as well as leading organizational transformation efforts, supporting acquisitions and due diligence, and building infrastructure that strengthens financial accountability and transparency.
At AZA United, Paula is passionate about using financial strategy to drive meaningful impact. She is committed to ensuring that resources are used effectively to expand access to services, enhance quality of care, and support sustainable growth. She values the opportunity to directly contribute to an organization whose mission improves the lives of individuals with autism and their families.
Outside of work, Paula enjoys practicing Pilates, spending quality time with family and friends, and caring for her two dogs, Sweet Pea and Simba.
Shannon Scheidt, SHRM-SCP
Vice President of Human Resources
Shannon Scheidt, SHRM-SCP
Vice President of Human Resources
Shannon Scheidt serves as the Vice President of Human Resources at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing more than 27 years of experience in human resources leadership to the organization. She joined AZA United in 2018 and has played a key role in strengthening the organization’s people-centered culture and supporting its continued growth and impact.
Shannon holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Keller Graduate School of Management and is a certified Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). Her career includes extensive leadership experience, including serving as Director of Human Resources at Televerde from 2007 to 2016.
Throughout her career, Shannon has focused on building workplaces where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work. Her leadership style emphasizes empathy, clear communication, and a strong belief that organizational culture is the foundation of success. She has guided organizations through periods of growth, change, and leadership transition, developing programs that enhance employee engagement, strengthen management capabilities, and create meaningful career pathways.
At AZA United, Shannon is deeply aligned with the organization’s mission and values. While she does not work directly in clinical services, she is passionate about supporting the employees who make that work possible, ensuring they feel engaged, supported, and equipped to serve individuals and families across Arizona.
Outside of work, Shannon enjoys exploring new destinations, cooking, and learning about holistic health practices.
Carey Beranek, BCBA
Vice President of Children & Youth Services
Carey Beranek, BCBA
Vice President of Children & Youth Services
Carey Beranek serves as the Vice President of Children & Youth Services at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing decades of experience in autism services and organizational leadership. She joined AZA United in 2012 and has been instrumental in advancing high-quality, evidence-based services for children, youth, and their families.
Carey holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Phoenix and completed applied behavior analysis coursework through the Florida Institute of Technology. She is a Licensed Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA, LBA) and an active leader in the field, including serving as President of the Arizona Association for Behavior Analysis (AzABA) in 2022, as well as in previous roles as Treasurer and Public Policy Committee Chair. She also participates in national and clinical leadership groups, including the Council of Autism Service Providers (CASP) Client Outcomes Special Interest Group and the CentralReach Clinical Leaders Network.
With experience in autism services dating back to 1996 and leadership roles since 2012, Carey brings deep expertise in evidence-based practices, program development, staff training, performance management, quality improvement, and clinical outcome measurement. She has also contributed to the field through community education and public policy advocacy, helping to advance access to effective services.
At AZA United, Carey is passionate about delivering high-quality, compassionate care and developing skilled providers who can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with autism and their families. She is committed to continuously improving services and advancing approaches that enhance quality of life.
Outside of work, Carey enjoys riding horses, reading, and spending time with her husband and four children.
Ehren Werntz, PhD, BCBA-D
Vice President of Family & Community Services
Ehren Werntz, PhD, BCBA-D
Vice President of Family & Community Services
Dr. Ehren Werntz serves as the Vice President of Family & Community Services at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing more than 25 years of experience in the field of autism and developmental disabilities. Since joining AZA United in 2006, he has played a key role in expanding services and advancing innovative, family-centered approaches to care.
Dr. Werntz holds a Ph.D. and is both a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a licensed behavior analyst. He has been actively involved in professional leadership, including serving on the Executive Board of the Arizona Association for Behavior Analysis and contributing as a Special Interest Group chair focused on areas such as Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT), Relational Frame Theory (RFT), and services for adults.
Throughout his career, Dr. Werntz has focused on improving outcomes for individuals with complex needs, with particular expertise in the treatment of challenging behavior, caregiver training, and outcomes-driven program development. His work is grounded in a commitment to practical, evidence-based strategies that support individuals and families across home, school, and community settings.
At AZA United, Dr. Werntz is passionate about fostering innovation and ensuring that services remain responsive to the evolving needs of individuals, families, and communities. He values the organization’s emphasis on collaboration, creativity, and putting people first in everything it does.
Outside of work, Dr. Werntz enjoys coaching and playing lacrosse with his two teenage boys.
Erica Skepnek, PsyD
Senior Director of Psychological & Diagnostic Services
Erica Skepnek, PsyD
Senior Director of Psychological & Diagnostic Services
Dr. Erica Skepnek serves as the Senior Director of Psychological & Diagnostic Services at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing nearly 20 years of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families across a range of clinical and service settings. She joined AZA United in 2021 and has played a key role in developing the organization’s diagnostic and psychological services.
Dr. Skepnek holds a Doctorate in Psychology (PsyD) from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. Her career includes 10 years at a previous autism-focused nonprofit, where she developed extensive expertise in providing and managing services for individuals with neurodevelopmental and related conditions.
Her professional work has focused on building, managing, and refining diagnostic services for individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental and emotional or behavioral conditions. In addition to diagnostic work, she has provided individual, family, and group therapy, supported social and vocational programming, and developed life and social skills curricula. A significant achievement at AZA United has been leading the launch and growth of the Psychological & Diagnostic Services department, expanding the organization’s multidisciplinary approach to care.
Dr. Skepnek is particularly passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan, especially older adolescents and adults, as well as expanding access to diagnostic and therapeutic services. She is also committed to training the next generation of clinicians through supervision and mentorship of graduate students and postdoctoral trainees. Her work is grounded in collaboration, innovation, and a strong commitment to meeting unmet needs within the community.
At AZA United, Dr. Skepnek values the organization’s family-centered, multidisciplinary approach and its focus on continuously improving services to better support individuals and families. She is actively involved in the broader professional community, including participation on the Disaster Response Committee of the Arizona Psychological Association.
Outside of work, Dr. Skepnek enjoys attending hot Pilates classes and spending time with her children and dogs.
Paulina Tiffany
Senior Director of Development
Paulina Tiffany
Senior Director of Development
Paulina Tiffany serves as Senior Development Director at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing 15 years of experience in fund development, nonprofit leadership, event planning, and communications. She joined AZA United in 2010 and plays a key role in advancing the organization’s mission through strategic fundraising, community engagement, and storytelling.
Paulina has completed several leadership and professional development programs, including the ASU Lodestar Nonprofit Leadership Certification, the Association for Nonprofit Professionals Mentorship Program, and the Virginia G. Piper Trust ATLAS program. She has also demonstrated strong community leadership through her service as a Parent Leader at Encircle Families (Formerly Raising Special Kids), involvement with the ALTCS Advisory Council, the AHCCCS ASD Advisory Committee and school PTA and booster club boards.
Her professional background includes experience as a bilingual reading interventionist at the Arizona State University Speech & Language Clinic, along with expertise in navigating Arizona’s systems of care and advocating for the rights of the disability community. She is particularly skilled in storytelling and is bilingual in English and Spanish, allowing her to connect with diverse audiences and elevate the voices of the families AZA United serves.
Paulina’s connection to AZA United is deeply personal. As the mother of an autistic individual, her journey with the organization began as a parent seeking support. This experience continues to inform her passion for nonprofit work and her commitment to building a compassionate, mission-driven community that uplifts families. At AZA United, she is inspired by the organization’s steadfast dedication to its values and the meaningful impact it creates for individuals and families.
Outside of work, Paulina enjoys home improvement projects, traveling, cooking with her son and watching British mystery shows.
Kyle Fyfe
Senior Director of Information Technology
Kyle Fyfe
Senior Director of Information Technology
Kyle Fyfe serves as the Senior Director of Information Technology at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing 16 years of experience in technology, including eight years in IT leadership within healthcare settings. He joined AZA United in 2023 and leads efforts to strengthen the organization’s technology infrastructure, data systems, and cybersecurity practices.
Kyle’s background spans a wide range of technical and leadership functions, with a focus on building scalable systems that support organizational performance and decision-making. He has demonstrated success in developing robust analytics that enable leaders to make informed decisions, improving access to technical support, and implementing automation that simplifies complex processes and reduces errors.
Throughout his career, Kyle has emphasized creating and mentoring high-performing, customer-focused teams while safeguarding sensitive information and strengthening cybersecurity. His approach centers on making technology practical, accessible, and aligned with the needs of staff and the individuals they serve.
At AZA United, Kyle is motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization where technology directly supports positive outcomes for families and communities. He values collaborating with staff and participating in community events that reinforce the organization’s impact. He is also an active member and donor of the Desert Botanical Garden’s Emerging Leaders group.
Outside of work, Kyle enjoys exploring technology in his personal time, traveling internationally, and experiencing different cultures, with a particular interest in Europe and Asia.
AZA United's
Department Leaders
Every program and department at AZA United relies on focused leadership from our directors and managers. Their role is to ensure systems are running smoothly, staff have everything they need to be successful, and clients are receiving the highest quality of care and support that we can provide. Their guiding values are to ensure that everyone on their team is able to Stay Informed and Be of Service.
Amy Enriquez, CCC-SLP
Director of Speech & Occupational Therapy Services
Amy Enriquez, CCC-SLP
Director of Speech & Occupational Therapy Services
Amy Enriquez serves as the Director of Speech & Occupational Therapy at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing more than 14 years of experience as a speech-language pathologist and nearly two decades of service to the organization. Since joining AZA United in 2007, she has contributed to the organization’s growth and the development of high-quality, interdisciplinary services across a variety of settings.
Amy holds a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Northern Arizona University and is a certified speech-language pathologist (CCC-SLP). She has been actively engaged in broader system-level work, including her service on the Arizona Telehealth Advisory Committee since 2021.
Throughout her career, Amy has worked across schools, home health, interdisciplinary clinics, and behavioral health settings, bringing a well-rounded perspective to supporting individuals with autism and related needs. She is passionate about maintaining a strong connection to direct services while also leading and mentoring her team, emphasizing collaboration, continuous learning, and the ongoing development of clinical excellence.
At AZA United, Amy is deeply committed to fostering a supportive and growth-oriented environment for both staff and clients. She values the opportunity to work alongside her team, helping to build skills, strengthen programs, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of the individuals and families they serve.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the world, whether through hiking or traveling to new destinations.
April Jones, BCBA
Director of Direct Support Services
April Jones, BCBA
Director of Direct Support Services
April Jones serves as the Director of Direct Support Services at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing a diverse background in both clinical services and program leadership. She joined AZA United in 2013 and has advanced into a leadership role focused on overseeing service delivery and supporting high-quality direct support programs.
April holds a Master’s degree from Arizona State University and is both a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). Her professional experience includes more than five years working as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) and Behavior Technician before earning her BCBA and transitioning into management and departmental oversight.
Throughout her career, April has developed a strong foundation in supporting individuals with autism across a range of service models. She brings a unique perspective to her leadership role, combining hands-on experience with a focus on program quality and team development. She is also engaged in broader professional advocacy as a Council Member for the Member Advocacy Council.
At AZA United, April is passionate about being part of a community dedicated to making a meaningful difference. She values the organization’s commitment to people and is driven to support both staff and the individuals and families they serve through effective, compassionate services.
Morgan Chipley, BCBA
Director of Complex Care Services
Morgan Chipley, BCBA
Director of Complex Care Services
Morgan Chipley serves as the Director of Complex Care Services at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing 15 years of experience in behavioral health and applied behavior analysis. She joined AZA United in 2015 and plays a key role in developing and overseeing services that support individuals with complex needs and their families.
Morgan holds a Master of Science from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and is both a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). She is also actively involved in professional leadership, serving as Co-Chair of the Acceptance and Commitment Training/Relational Frame Theory (ACT/RFT) Special Interest Group for the Arizona Association for Behavior Analysis.
Her professional expertise includes complex behavior treatment, caregiver and staff training and Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT), with a strong emphasis on building systems of care that support not only individuals but also their families and the professionals who serve them. Morgan is passionate about ensuring services remain accessible, equitable, and delivered with dignity, respect, and cultural responsiveness. She is particularly focused on developing programs and teams that promote sustainable, high-quality care that empower natural support systems.
At AZA United, Morgan values the organization’s commitment to staff development, clinical integrity, collaborative care, and continuous improvement. She is dedicated to advancing services that create meaningful impact while strengthening the systems that support long-term success for individuals and families.
Outside of work, Morgan enjoys practicing yoga, kayaking/paddleboarding, and traveling to new places.
Ninette Pike, BCBA
Director of ABA Treatment Services
Ninette Pike, BCBA
Director of ABA Treatment Services
Ninette Pike serves as the Director of ABA Treatment Services at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing 15 years of experience in autism treatment and applied behavior analysis. Since joining AZA United in 2011, she has grown within the organization across a wide range of roles, beginning as a habilitation and respite provider and advancing into her current leadership position.
Ninette holds a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology with a focus in applied behavior analysis from Kaplan University and is both a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). Her professional experience spans direct support services and clinical leadership, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of service delivery and team development.
Throughout her career, Ninette has developed expertise in ensuring high-quality, compliant service delivery, including reviewing policy and regulatory standards from funders, state agencies, and professional organizations. She is passionate about establishing clear expectations for compassionate, evidence-based care that leads to meaningful outcomes and improved quality of life for individuals and families.
At AZA United, Ninette values the organization’s continued focus on serving families and supporting staff growth. She is committed to strengthening clinical quality, fostering professional development, and helping teams deliver impactful, person-centered ABA services.
Outside of work, Ninette enjoys reading fiction, traveling with her family, and taking on home renovation and decorating projects.
Nia Uhlenhake
Family Support & Community Outreach Manager
Nia Uhlenhake
Family Support & Community Outreach Manager
Nia Uhlenhake serves as the Family Support & Community Outreach Manager at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing over a decade of experience supporting and advocating for families of individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. She joined AZA United in 2019 and plays a key role in connecting families to resources, strengthening community partnerships, and expanding outreach efforts across Arizona.
Nia holds a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and is a Credentialed Family Support Partner. She is also actively engaged in advocacy at the state level, serving on the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Member Advocacy Council.
Nia’s work is deeply informed by both her professional experience and her personal journey as a parent of a child with autism. This lived experience has shaped her career path and fuels her commitment to supporting families as they navigate complex systems of care. She has developed expertise in family support, system navigation, program development, and community education, and is especially passionate about providing presentations and outreach that empower families and increase community understanding.
At AZA United, Nia is dedicated to ensuring that families feel seen, supported, and connected. She is driven by a desire to reduce isolation and help families access the guidance and reassurance they need during challenging times. She values the organization’s mission-driven culture and its commitment to compassion, integrity, and putting families first.
Outside of work, Nia enjoys dancing, playing the piano, and cooking and hosting gatherings with family and friends.
Bunmi Stansberry, OT
Occupational Therapy Services Manager
Bunmi Stansberry, OT
Occupational Therapy Services Manager
Bunmi Stansberry serves as the Occupational Therapy Services Manager at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing 10 years of experience as an occupational therapist, including eight years working with children. She joined AZA United in 2021 and contributes to the delivery of high-quality, family-centered occupational therapy services.
Bunmi holds a Master of Occupational Therapy degree from London and has completed specialized training in pediatric feeding through the AEIOU Integrated Approach as well as the Alert Program. She is also continuing to expand her expertise through training in reflex integration and advanced feeding therapy techniques.
Her professional experience includes practicing occupational therapy in both London and Arizona, providing her with a diverse perspective on supporting children with developmental needs. She is particularly passionate about helping children build skills that enable them to grow, succeed, and reach their full potential.
At AZA United, Bunmi values the organization’s holistic approach to care, which supports not only the individual but the entire family. She is committed to contributing to a collaborative, mission-driven team that delivers meaningful and impactful services to the community.
Sara Mitchell, BCBA
Director of Behavior Technician Performance
Sara Mitchell, BCBA
Director of Behavior Technician Performance
Sara has been a valued leader at Arizona Autism United since 2014 and brings more than 26 years of experience in autism treatment. She holds a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University and is both a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA).
Sara is actively involved in advancing the field of behavior analysis as a Board Member of the Arizona Association for Behavior Analysis (AzABA).
In her role as the Director of Behavior Technician Performance, Sara focuses on strengthening frontline clinical teams through the application of Organizational Behavior Management (OBM), performance systems, continuous improvement, and project management practices. Her work centers on building confident, skilled Behavior Technicians who are equipped to deliver high-quality, meaningful services.
Sara is deeply passionate about developing high-performing teams and supporting the growth of frontline staff. She values AZA United’s strong commitment to investing in its workforce and believes that empowering Behavior Technicians is essential to achieving positive outcomes for autistic individuals and their families.
Jennifer Monteleone, BCBA
ABA Clinical Manager
Jennifer Monteleone, BCBA
ABA Clinical Manager
Jennifer Monteleone serves as ABA Clinical Manager at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing 16 years of experience in autism treatment and related services across home, community, school, and clinic settings. She joined AZA United in 2015 and has grown within the organization through a variety of clinical roles, advancing into clinical leadership beginning in 2020.
Jennifer holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, both from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA).
In her current role, Jennifer provides leadership and oversight within AZA United’s Autism Treatment Services (ATS) department, supporting behavior analysts while ensuring high standards of clinical quality, meaningful client outcomes, and ongoing professional development. Her experience across multiple service settings gives her a well-rounded perspective on delivering effective, individualized care.
Jennifer is passionate about family-centered care and values partnering closely with families to support individuals in living enriched, fulfilling lives. She is committed to helping each person make meaningful progress toward personalized goals while fostering a collaborative, compassionate, and values-driven team environment.
Stephanie Gates, BCBA
ABA Clinical Manager
Stephanie Gates, BCBA
ABA Clinical Manager
Stephanie has been a dedicated member of Arizona Autism United since 2016 and brings over 13 years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She holds a Master of Arts from Ball State University and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA).
Stephanie is actively engaged in advancing the field of ABA through her involvement with the AzABA Program Committee and the Council of Autism Service Providers (CASP) Supervision Special Interest Group. Her professional focus is on developing strong clinical talent and advancing best practices in supervision.
Over the past 7.5 years, Stephanie has led AZA United’s BCBA supervision program, designing and implementing a competency-based model that has successfully supported the development of more than 13 BCBAs. Her work reflects a deep commitment to cultivating skilled clinicians and maintaining excellence in clinical care.
Stephanie is passionate about providing high-quality, client-centered services and values being part of a nonprofit organization that prioritizes meaningful, real-world outcomes for individuals and families. She is especially dedicated to advancing supervision practices and ensuring that future clinicians are well-prepared to deliver exceptional care.
Outside of her professional work, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her daughter and cheering on Georgia Bulldogs football.
Julie Richardson
Director of Service Operations
Julie Richardson
Director of Service Operations
Julie Richardson serves as the Director of Service Operations at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing more than 14 years of experience in business operations, including seven years in healthcare operations. She joined AZA United in 2019 and plays an important role in supporting coordination of services to ensure individuals and families receive consistent, high-quality care.
Julie holds a Master of Health Administration from Capella University, providing a strong foundation in healthcare systems, operational management, and service delivery. Her background in both business and healthcare operations supports her ability to navigate complex systems while helping teams stay aligned and focused on client needs.
At AZA United, Julie values the organization’s strong culture of compassion and dedication. She is inspired by the shared commitment among staff to making a meaningful impact in the community and prioritizing the well-being of the individuals and families served. Her work is driven by a desire to support effective service coordination that enhances the overall experience and outcomes for clients.
Outside of work, Julie enjoys traveling, photography, and mountain biking.
Lindsay Dowling
Quality Assurance Manager
Lindsay Dowling
Quality Assurance Manager
Lindsay Dowling serves as the Quality Assurance Manager at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing extensive experience across direct care, administrative support, and quality assurance within the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) system. She joined AZA United in 2009 and plays an important role in ensuring services meet regulatory standards and maintain high levels of quality and consistency.
Lindsay holds professional certifications in Organizational Behavior Management from the Florida Institute of Technology and Training & Development from the Association for Talent Development. Her diverse background includes three years in HCBS direct care, 15 years in DDD administrative support, and five years focused specifically on quality assurance. This breadth of experience provides her with a comprehensive understanding of service delivery and compliance requirements across multiple levels of the system.
Throughout her career, Lindsay has developed strong expertise in regulatory requirements and quality oversight, particularly within the DDD system. She is committed to helping ensure that services are delivered in alignment with standards while supporting teams in maintaining consistent, high-quality practices.
At AZA United, Lindsay is motivated by the organization’s mission, vision, and values, which she has seen consistently demonstrated over many years. She takes pride in knowing that her work contributes to meaningful outcomes and helps families receive quality services.
Outside of work, Lindsay enjoys spending time with her family and playing arcade games, especially pinball.
Cori Poage
HR Operations Manager
Cori Poage
HR Operations Manager
Cori Poage serves as the Human Resources Operations Manager at Arizona Autism United, where she brings more than six years of direct human resources experience, along with nearly 13 years in HR-related roles across a variety of settings. She joined AZA United in 2015 and has been instrumental in strengthening internal operations and supporting staff across the organization.
Cori is a SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), reflecting her strong foundation in modern HR practices and standards. She is known for her exceptional communication skills and her ability to build trust and rapport with individuals at all levels of an organization. Her strengths include navigating complex situations and identifying practical, creative solutions that drive positive outcomes for both employees and the organization.
She is passionate about ensuring that people feel seen, heard, and supported—values that closely align with AZA United’s mission. Cori finds great purpose in applying her expertise to help strengthen the organization’s ability to serve the autism community.
Outside of work, Cori enjoys crocheting and is an enthusiastic fan of professional skateboarding.
Lori Kibble
Director of Revenue Cycle Management
Lori Kibble
Director of Revenue Cycle Management
Lori Kibble serves as the Director of Revenue Cycle Management at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing more than 25 years of experience in revenue cycle operations and financial performance management. She joined AZA United in 2019 and plays a key role in overseeing billing, collections, and revenue optimization processes that support the organization’s financial health and sustainability.
Lori holds professional credentials as a Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA) and Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS). Her extensive career includes leadership roles across revenue cycle management, as well as experience as a senior consultant and owner of a medical billing and financial services firm.
Throughout her career, Lori has developed specialized expertise in end-to-end revenue operations, including process optimization, operational efficiency, and driving financial performance. She has also contributed to cross-functional leadership efforts focused on improving systems, strengthening organizational strategy, and enhancing revenue cycle performance.
At AZA United, Lori is passionate about supporting a high-performing organization that delivers meaningful, high-quality services to clients and families. She values the organization’s collaborative culture and takes pride in contributing to its continued success through efficient and effective revenue cycle management.
Cheryl Myers
Financial Controller
Cheryl Myers
Financial Controller
Cheryl Myers serves as the Financial Controller at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing more than 20 years of experience in accounting and financial operations. She joined AZA United in 2024 and plays a key role in supporting the organization’s financial integrity and day-to-day fiscal management.
Cheryl holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Great Falls. Her extensive background in accounting provides a strong foundation for managing financial processes and ensuring accuracy, consistency, and accountability across the organization.
Throughout her career, Cheryl has focused on maintaining reliable financial systems and supporting effective operations. At AZA United, she contributes to the organization’s commitment to high-quality services by helping ensure that financial resources are managed responsibly and aligned with overall organizational goals.
Cheryl is especially drawn to AZA United’s collaborative and supportive culture. She values being part of a team that works closely together, shares ideas, and remains deeply committed to delivering the best possible outcomes for the individuals and families served. Her work is driven by a sense of purpose, knowing that strong financial stewardship helps enable meaningful impact in the community.
Joe Meyer
Facilities Manager
Joe Meyer
Facilities Manager
Joseph Meyer serves as the Facilities Manager at Arizona Autism United (AZA United), bringing more than 30 years of experience in facilities management, maintenance, and health and safety across a variety of settings, including education, healthcare, and multi-family housing environments. He joined AZA United in 2023 and plays an essential role in ensuring that the organization’s facilities are safe, functional, and supportive for both staff and the individuals and families served.
Joseph holds a technical certification in HVAC/R from the United States Air Force and maintains a Universal EPA Certification. Throughout his career, he has held leadership roles in facilities and maintenance operations, overseeing teams and supporting safety, compliance, and emergency preparedness initiatives across multiple environments.
His expertise includes facilities operations and maintenance, with a strong focus on creating reliable, well-maintained environments that support organizational effectiveness. At AZA United, Joseph is dedicated to ensuring that physical spaces enable staff to do their best work while also providing a secure and comfortable environment for the individuals receiving services.
Joseph is motivated by the organization’s mission and values the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way behind the scenes. He is passionate about maintaining spaces that help people feel safe, supported, and ready to succeed.
Outside of work, Joseph enjoys traveling, spending time with family, and cheering on the Purdue Boilermakers.
Awards & Recognitions
2026 Arizona Top Workplaces
2026 Autism Center of Excellence
2025 Largest Health Nonprofits
National BHCOE Accreditation

The Benefits of Nonprofit Services for Autism Support

How AZA’s Family Support Team Helps the Autism Community
