This month we interviewed Brynn Alberici, the Director of Development at Autism New Jersey. Brynn has been with Autism New Jersey for 19 years. She was Manager of Special Events & Community Relations for our organization for many years until she was appointed to her current position in January 2025.
In addition to building and maintaining donor relations, Brynn leads the organization’s annual golf outing and oversees our cornerstone acceptance campaign, the Ambassador Program. With a master’s degree in education from Fairleigh Dickinson University, she is dedicated to advancing awareness, building relationships, and fundraising efforts for Autism New Jersey.
Tell me about your role at Autism New Jersey.
I have the privilege of going out into the community and speaking directly to our supporters, many of which are families, and hearing their stories and priorities. The most important aspect of my work, and also my favorite, is building relationships with them. To make sure they know the many ways that investing in our organization makes an impact in our state.
How did you get into this field?
When I was in college, I nannied for a wonderful family who lived across the street. Their son was diagnosed with autism at around 18 months. While they poured over information and worked so hard to set up services for him, I learned alongside them. I watched the huge difference it made in their family once they had a path forward. I knew I wanted to be part of that difference.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Definitely the people I meet! Whether it is setting up an event that pulls people together in the community, offering our Autism Ambassador campaign to bring the message of autism acceptance to communities across our state, or listening to the needs of our supporters and being there for them, it is all about the people.
What are you most proud of?
The progress in our state over the almost two decades I have been working at Autism New Jersey makes me incredibly proud. Everything from overall awareness about autism, to community partners like those in law enforcement and healthcare, to the standards that have been raised through public policy. All of it shows the difference we can make when a community comes together and works to create change.
How has your work at Autism New Jersey impacted your life over the past 19 years?
I am so lucky to love what I do and also have it mean something to someone else. It is rewarding, inspiring, and I thank my lucky stars every day for the opportunity. Our team is small – just 21 people – and I learn so much from every one of them. I’m proud to share their accomplishments with our supporters to advance our mission.
As you look to the next few years for ANJ, what are your priorities?
My priorities over the next few years are to strengthen and diversify our revenue streams, deepen donor engagement, and build a robust pipeline for major gifts and long-term support. I’m also focusing on improving our systems and the way we connect with donors, so it’s easier to show our impact and invite them to be part of expanding programs that directly support families. Ultimately, I want to position the organization for sustainable growth while giving supporters the chance to dream with us and feel the difference we’re making together.
What do you do outside of work for fun?
I love to travel to new places; I recently went on a trip to Iceland with my family and loved it. To me, there is also nothing better than cooking or baking in my kitchen with family and friends, and wine – don’t forget the wine! 😊