Rockville, MD, February 6, 2024 – The Autism Society of America is excited to welcome Marc Ellison as the newly appointed Chair of our Panel of Professional Advisors (PPA). The PPA is a volunteer advisory panel of professionals with expertise in Autism and related areas that advises on strategic initiatives, participates in organizational task forces, and provides insight and discussion around community topics.  

Marc Ellison, Ed.D. is the executive director of the West Virginia Autism Training Center, located at Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked over four decades to provide person-centered support, services, and advocacy to individuals diagnosed with Autism, their families, and those who care for and about them. He has supported individuals in a variety of ways including as they moved to the community from state-supported institutions, searched for and obtained employment, entered relationships, and transitioned into college. A past president of the West Virginia Licensed Professional Counselors Association, he has led efforts to improve mental health services for individuals diagnosed with Autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Ellison is also a board member of the Autism Society of West Virginia. 

“I’m honored by the invitation to serve as Chair of the Autism Society of America’s Panel of Professional Advisors. Since 1965, the Autism Society has been at the forefront of expanding public awareness and acceptance, influencing public policy, and carrying out advocacy-related activities that improve life quality for individuals diagnosed with Autism. I’m eager to work with this highly accomplished and dedicated panel to support the Autism Society’s mission — to empower the Autism community with the resources necessary to live fully.”  said Marc Ellison, Ed. D., Chair of the Professional Advisors.  

“The Autism Society is delighted to welcome Marc as the Chair of our Panel of Professional Advisors.  His decades-long experience in so many areas of our work will be a great asset to continue our mission. We are proud that he joined the Autism Society family and are looking forward to seeing what can be achieved with his expertise.” said Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America.   

Autism Society of America

The Autism Society’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its approximately 70+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. For more information visit the Autism Society at AutismSociety.org, Facebook, Instagram or X.