June 27, 2006

Sebelius names advocates to represent Kansans with autism
Commission on Autism advises Governor

To raise awareness of autism, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has appointed David Cunningham and Mimi French to the Commission on Autism.

“This commission works to emphasize and promote the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention, which is very helpful in improving the quality of life for Kansans impacted by autism,” said Sebelius.

The Governor's Commission on Autism advises and makes recommendations to the Office of the Governor in regard to matters related to autism, families with an autistic child, and service providers. It also monitors research and developments relating to the needs of persons with autism. Both appointees will serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

Cunningham, Mission Hills, is the district manager for Equitable/EQ Financial Consultants, Inc. He oversees district members, recruits new salespeople and trains employees through formal programs and joint field work. Cunningham was the District Manager of the Year in 1996 and received the District Leadership Award in 1995, 1996 and 1997.

French, Wichita, has worked at Heartspring since 2000, where she plans and implements occupational therapy programs for children with autism. She has over twenty years of experience as a registered occupational therapist. For nearly 15 years, French has continued her education by attending various conferences and workshops, including one on Asperger’s Syndrome and High Functioning Autism in 2006 and one on Early Diagnosis and Screening in Autism Spectrum Disorder in 2004.

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