Autism New Jersey is pleased to welcome four members to its Board of Directors: Stephen Bray, PE; Jon Hendl, and Chief Kevin Kesselman as new directors, and Thomas R. Curtin, Esq., returning for a second term.
Together, they bring extensive expertise across law, safety, communications, local government, and organizational leadership.
“We’re thrilled to expand our board and welcome Steve, Jon, Kevin and Tom,” said Board President Paul Cash. “Each director brings unique strengths and perspectives that will help us continue building a New Jersey where every individual with autism is embraced, supported and empowered to thrive.”
Stephen A. Bray
Stephen A. Bray is the Chief Executive Officer of KMB Design Group. A licensed professional engineer in 50 states, he is a member of the National Society of Professional Engineers and the Institute of Industrial Engineers. He is a father of four, including an adult son on the autism spectrum. Mr. Bray also serves as a Councilman in West Long Branch, New Jersey, and a member of Autism New Jersey’s Golf Committee. He holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Industrial Engineering from Rutgers University and a Master of Business Administration from Monmouth University.
“I know firsthand how challenging it can be for families affected by autism to find the right programs and services,” Mr. Bray said. “I look forward to applying my background in engineering, strategic planning, and organizational leadership to help strengthen Autism New Jersey’s long-term impact for individuals and families across our state.”
Jon Hendl
Jon Hendl is Managing Director of Corporate Communications at Marine Maher Communications. He is an expert in helping companies and executives navigate through challenging moments of change or crisis, as well as positioning senior and mid-level executives for internal and external success. Mr. Hendl has five kids and was instrumental in removing an air horn fire siren from an elementary school that includes classrooms of children with disabilities, including autism. He serves as a Councilman in his hometown of Glen Rock and holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Professional Writing from Elizabethtown College.
“Every family should be able to easily find the services and support they need,” Mr. Hendl said. “I’m excited to bring my communications experience to help Autism New Jersey strengthen its reach and ensure more families know where to turn for help.”
Kevin Kesselman
Kevin Kesselman is Chief of Police at the New Jersey Institute of Technology’s Department of Public Safety, where he has served since 2001 with a variety of leadership roles. Chief Kesselman is a member of Autism New Jersey’s Law Enforcement Advisory Committee and the father of a son with autism. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Homeland Security & Emergency Management from Thomas Edison State University.
“Working with Autism New Jersey on its law enforcement initiative showed me what a powerful hub the agency is, convening all the right people and supporting others to do more,” Chief Kesselman said. “As a member of the Board, I hope to help expand that model into other areas of the community, so more people have the connections and tools to support individuals with autism.”
Tom Curtin
Thomas Curtin returns to the board after a one-year sabbatical. He is a partner at McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, LLP, where he is part of the Commercial Litigation group and represents athletes, coaches, sports teams and fashion designers. Mr. Curtin is a member of the American Bar Association and was a member of the House of Delegates from 1990 to 2015. He also is a proud grandfather to Tommy, who has autism. Mr. Curtin received a Bachelor of Arts from Fairfield University and his Juris Doctor degree from Notre Dame Law School.
“Suzanne and her team are trustworthy people who care deeply about children and adults like my grandson, and my family has benefitted tremendously from Autism New Jersey’s expertise,” Mr. Curtin said. “I’m honored to return to the Board to continue our work in both the public and private sectors. We need everyone to know about Autism New Jersey.”
Strengthening Leadership
The new and returning directors will enhance the Board’s ability to address the evolving needs of individuals with autism and their families. Their leadership will play a key role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction, especially as we explore working with local and county officials to support their efforts to adopt autism-friendly practices.
“Steve, Jon, Kevin, and Tom bring such heart and great ideas, and we’re excited to work with them individually and in collaboration with the entire Board,” said Dr. Suzanne Buchanan, Autism New Jersey’s Executive Director. “I couldn’t think of more passionate thought partners to help create a more autism-friendly New Jersey.”