Rockville, MD, February 20, 2026   – The Autism Society of America is pleased to announce the appointment of two distinguished new members to its Board of Directors, bringing decades of leadership experience, expertise in advocacy and policy, and a shared commitment to supporting Autistic individuals and their families. 

“We are honored to welcome Scott Badesch and Robert Rusbuldt to the Autism Society of America’s Board of Directors,” said Joe Joyce, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “Scott and Bob bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that will directly benefit the Autism Society’s mission. Their guidance will ensure that we continue to provide meaningful support and services to Autistic people and their families nationwide.” 

Meet the New Board Members

Scott Badesch 

Scott is a senior executive with 50 years of experience providing guidance and leadership across the private sector, government, and nonprofit organizations, including his role as former President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. He has extensive experience in business and program development, fundraising, marketing, social media strategy, and navigating the Autism space for private businesses and investors, including equity firms and ABA practices. 

Scott has deep knowledge of Autism policies, programs, treatment models, legislation, funding, and research. Recognized by Congressman Chris Smith and Congressman Mike Doyle for his leadership within the Autism community, he has helped advance Autism-related initiatives at the federal level. 

Since January 2020, Scott has served as President and CEO of Badesch and Associates LLC, consulting for clients globally, and in the U.S., including NGOs, technology startups, educational institutions, and private sector Autism services. From May 2024 through February 2025, he  served as Senior Policy Advisor to Congressman Chris Smith, focusing on Autism, caregiver support, brain health, and the reauthorization of the Autism CARES Act. 

Robert A. Rusbuldt 

Bob is a nationally recognized leader in the insurance and financial services industry, with over 40 years of experience in association leadership, public policy, advocacy, and executive management. He currently serves as President of Rusbuldt & Associates, LLC, a consulting firm advising organizations on strategy, governance, advocacy, and industry engagement.  

From 2001 to 2023, Bob was President and CEO of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big “I”), becoming the longest-serving CEO in the organization’s history. He oversaw more than 300,000 members across 51 state associations and led initiatives in technology, digital marketing, education, advocacy, and professional development.  

Earlier, he held senior executive roles including Legislative Director at the American Insurance Association, the U.S. Labor Department, and for Congressman Carroll Campbell, with responsibility for the House Ways & Means Committee.  He has served on numerous corporate and nonprofit boards, including WR Berkley Corporation and the United States Capitol Historical Society, and has been recognized as one of the insurance industry’s Top 25 Living Legends. Bob holds a B.A., summa cum laude, from The King’s College and an M.A. from American University. 

For more information about the Autism Society of America and its Board of Directors, visit https://autismsociety.org/our-team.

About the 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 Twitter.