April STEM Month is a celebration dedicated to promoting and raising awareness about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. GlobalMindED is proud to highlight the voices and work of influential STEM leaders.
Meet Dr. Amanda Kelly, President & CEO of Firefly Autism and Co-Founder of Colorado Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce.
Navigating Neurodiversity: Dr. Amanda Kelly's Journey of Advocacy and Leadership
What is your personal/professional story?
I'm originally from Ireland, and moved to the U.S. in 2012. Prior to that move, I completed a BA in Psychology (2006), Masters in Psychological Science (2009), and Doctorate in Psychological Science & Behavior Analysis (2011) from Maynooth University, Ireland. My research background is in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Relational Frame Theory (RFT); established research and practice avenues within which to promote overall behavioral health and social justice. I have presented my research at national and international conferences, completed countless training presentations for communities and nonprofits, and published two professional academic research articles in highly respected research journals. I am also certified as a doctoral level Board Certified Behavior Analyst© (BCBA-D); passionate about neurodiversity-affirming, values-based, and trauma-informed approaches.
In Ireland, I spent many years working as a behavior therapist in a clinic in Dublin, eventually taking on the role of acting Executive Director. I then moved into an academic role as a lecturer at Maynooth University, Kildare before the move to the U.S. Once in Colorado, I served in senior leadership roles with Firefly Autism for close to 9 years. In 2020, I was promoted to the Director of all of Firefly's clinical services. In February of 2021, my husband Dustin and I welcomed our beautiful son, Evan, into the world. Later that year, in December of 2021, I was appointed as CEO of Firefly.
In my role, I'm incredibly passionate about providing support and services for the hundreds of families, children, teens, and adults diagnosed with autism and related diagnoses who access Firefly’s programs. I am so proud to lead an incredible team of over 100 staff who dedicate themselves to Firefly and the families and individuals that Firefly serves. In September of 2022, myself and two others Co-Founded the Colorado Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce (CNDCC) which provides strategies and opportunities to optimize business growth by building an authentically diverse and equality-based workplace, while helping to further opportunities for neurodivergent individuals to excel in the workforce, business, and leadership.
What key moments in your life led you to where you are today?
When I was 22, my twin sister and I had just spent a year traveling in Australia after graduating with degrees in psychology, and we weren't sure what we wanted to do next. Together, we made the move to Dublin from our rural home in the midlands of Ireland, and both got a job working in a center for children with autism. That was such a pivotal moment for both of us. I loved the science behind behavioral change, and the Director of that center encouraged us to apply for a brand new doctoral program in behavior analysis and therapy that just started in the University we had graduated from. That program opened the door to so many areas that led me to where I am today, including the door to coming to the U.S. and working for the last 11 years with Firefly. I've been lucky to have the most amazing lecturers and mentors over the years who believed in me and lifted me up - I wouldn't be where I am today without them.
Where does your passion to serve come from?
My passion to serve stems from a deeply ingrained sense of fairness and equality that has defined my journey from childhood to adulthood. Growing up as an identical twin, fairness was paramount in every aspect of my life – everything had to be even and fair!! This early experience instilled in me a determination to advocate for fairness and equity in all aspects of society. In Ireland, where autism was not widely discussed or acknowledged when I was a kid, injustices and barriers faced by individuals with autism and other neurodivergent conditions kept becoming more apparent, and as I got older, it continuously struck me as completely unfair.
Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to advancing awareness, education, and support for individuals with autism and related neurological differences. As a leader within the business community, I have forged meaningful connections, cultivated reciprocal partnerships, and delivered training presentations to raise awareness and address complex issues affecting our community.
With an ever growing prevalence of autism (1 in 36) and neurodivergences (1 in 5), it is evident that the barriers that so many people face impact nearly everyone in our business and broader community. Recognizing the importance of collaboration, Firefly Autism has actively engaged with various stakeholders, including local police, financial institutions, and educational institutions, to increase awareness and find solutions to pressing challenges. As a Co-Founder of the Colorado Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce, I am committed to advancing the interests of neurodivergent individuals in the business world. Through my involvement in the Chamber, I have had the opportunity to further my leadership within the business community, collaborating with leaders across different sectors to drive positive change.
From delivering countless business presentations on neurodiversity to conducting training sessions for HR leaders from diverse industries, I have sought to amplify the conversation around neurodiversity and inclusion in the workplace. My recent appearance on a podcast with Bossed Up underscored the importance of addressing neurodiversity in the context of women in leadership roles. As I continue my work within the business community, I am committed to fostering environments that embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion. Whether it's advocating for effective insurance coverage for behavioral health services or promoting the recruitment and retention of neurodiverse talent, I remain dedicated to driving meaningful change across industries in Colorado and beyond.
How can GlobalMindED help you reach your goals?
The opportunity to share this story is amazing! Already Carol and GlobalMindED have provided connections and platforms that have been incredibly helpful, and I'm looking forward to continuing to partner to create meaningful change.
Dr. Kelly will be participating at GlobalMindED’s Ten Year Anniversary. Also, Firefly Autism will hold their annual Gala on Thursday, April 25 2024, at the Denver Center for Performing Arts Seawell Ballroom. Registration and more information can be found here: https://fireflyautism.org/lyb24
