Family Advisory Board
At Southern Tier Connect, we value the members who choose our services, and we want your voice to be heard! The FAB meets quarterly with STC leadership to help make decisions about agency goals and priorities, understand areas for improvement, and give input on your experiences to drive agency decision-making.
If you would like more information or would like to join the Family Advisory Board, please email us.
Kristen French
Parent and Advocate
Kristen is a retired special education teacher. She has an adult son who is autistic. She has advocated for him to receive services since he was two years old, when he began receiving services from Springbrook.
Ted Martin
Parent and Advocate
Ted serves alongside his wife, Bonnie, on the Family Advisory Board. He advocates for his son Sam, who is supported by STC and Springbrook. He is a retired builder and teaches Construction Technology Management at SUNY Delhi.
Bonnie Martin
Parent and Advocate
Bonnie’s son, Sam, receives services through STC. She is a passionate advocate and volunteer in several community organizations such as the Springbrook Foundation Board, The ARC of Delaware County Board of Directors, and the NYSARC Board of Governors.
Karen Koch
Family Member and Advocate
Karen is a retired high school graphics teacher who often worked with students with disabilities. Her and her husband, Tommy, are advocates for Patrick, Tommy’s cousin. She joined FAB to learn more about advocating for Patrick. Now, she is happy to bring her experiences and the many resources she has used along the way to support others.
Chris Morris
Member
Chris is a member of Southern Tier Connect and works with The ARC of Delaware County. Chris is determined to succeed and has a great memory for dates and details. He will provide an invaluable perspective as someone receiving services with STC.
Kathy Szabelski
Parent
Kathy has been an advocate for her 26-year-old son, Michael, since he began receiving services as a child. She has coached Special Olympics teams for over 10 years. She is involved in her community through volunteering at her local fire department and organizing community events. Kathy is passionate about sharing her experience navigating everything from school, to job placement, to receiving services after graduation.
Katie Mace
Parent
Katie is the parent of Leo, who receives services through STC. She is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a strong advocate for mental health access.
We are always looking for new members to join the Family Advisory Board
At Southern Tier Connect, we value the members who choose our services, and we want your voice to be heard! The FAB meets quarterly with STC leadership to help make decisions about agency goals and priorities, understand areas for improvement, and give input on your experiences to drive agency decision-making.
If you have any questions, would like more information, or would like to join the Family Advisory Board, email us by clicking the button below.