Our Team
The Power of the Dream is guided by a working board, comprised of lifelong advocates, community volunteers, and professionals. Many have first-hand experience of the challenges persons with Autism/IDD face. Find out more about our dedicated and passionate board members by clicking on the FULL BIO buttons.
Nichole Brownlee
Executive Director
Nichole Brownlee is a certified Human Resources professional known for providing leadership in the recruitment of top talent, development of optimal staff performance, policy development, and consultation on general HR issues of varying complexities.
Tirthna Badhiwala
Employment and Outreach Coordinator
Tirthna strongly believes that sustainable employment for individuals with Autism/IDD is a public health solution, as it addresses a root cause of healthcare access inequity.
Open Position
President
Rita Faust has completed her term as President. She will continue to serve on the Board driving key initiatives. We would like to thank Rita for her leadership, vision and support. We are now seeking a new President to build on her accomplishments and maximize organizational efforts as we continue to grow.
Rita Faust
Member / Past President
Rita is the mother of an adult son with intellectual disabilities and has been a strong advocate for him during his entire public school education.
Bruce Kirschenbaum
Vice-President
Grandfather of granddaughter with autism
After graduating Columbia University Law School, Bruce joined the staff of the senior U.S. Senator from New York.
Jeff Pike
Treasurer
Jeff is the Controller for a local Healthcare Software company that specializes in patient/provider communication.
Marsha Merola-Salmon
Secretary
Marsha has used her strong leadership and project management skills to enjoy career success in the corporate world, as an entrepreneur and in the non-profit sector.
Anna Cunningham
Board Member
Mother of three wonderful daughters; one of whom has autism and IDD
Anna has made a positive difference in lives of many people with disabilities for over 20 years.
Orah Raia
Board Member
Mother of son with IDD
Orah entered the field of disabilities after her son Brian was born with fragile x syndrome.
Samir Trivedi
Board Member
Community Volunteer
Samir is an accomplished business professional with over 12 years of experience in general management of product portfolios and product development operations and marketing.