The people behind the work.
Coaches, creatives, advocates, and allies — building real opportunities for neurodivergent voice actors.
Where it started.
Heidi S. Hackney
MS, PCC · Co-FounderCertified Autism Coach and ICF Accredited Life Coach with a Master's in Human Development. Heidi brings decades of experience helping neurodivergent adults find their footing — in life, in work, and now in voice acting.
Robin Brooke
SAG-AFTRA, AEA · Co-Founder & Program DirectorProfessional voiceover talent of 20+ years, established VO instructor and coach, and AVA's Program Director. Robin brings the craft, the creative vision, and the directorial instinct that turns a table read into a finished production.
Real support from a working pro.
Ryan Paige
Instructor · CoachVoice actor, audio producer, scriptwriter, and casting director. Ryan and his wife run Paige Vox Studio, a creative company specializing in audio production. He brings a working producer's ear to every AVA session.
Expertise, advocacy, and lived experience.
Our board brings legal expertise, business acumen, advocacy experience, and lived neurodivergent perspective to every decision AVA makes.
Gail Singer-Chang
Psy.D., MA, MS, PPS · Board ChairAutism advocate, educator, and retired medical school leader with a background in psychology and a passion for inclusive community building.
Dez Bryant-Senes
Board TreasurerNeurodivergent (AuDHD), queer, woo-woo rebel. Budding barista breaking into voiceover acting, and a seasoned small business finance pro.
Emily Gerhardstein
Board MemberCo-founder of an adaptive apparel startup and industry leader in merchandising, product development, and strategic partnerships.
Clarissa Pinheiro
Board MemberAttorney and advocate for adults with autism navigating employment and relationships.
Dana P. Rowe
PCC, CPCC · Board MemberComposer, Author, Voiceover Artist, and Executive Coach with decades of experience in the entertainment industry.
Jacqueline Coursey
MS, PCC · Advisory BoardCertified Autism Coach, Autism Advocate, and founder of her own coaching company.
Want to work with this team?
Join AVA as an actor, sponsor a project, or lend your skills as a volunteer.