Chris Masey, Executive Director
Chris Masey has been focused on disability issues and advocacy for almost two decades serving most recently as the Advocacy Director for the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities. Chris has a broad range of knowledge and expertise in nonprofit management and holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from St. Edward’s University specifically focused on what makes nonprofits efficient and successful. Chris currently serves on several advisory committees and workgroups at the state, university, city, provider and agency level. A significant portion of Chris’ advocacy work has been in Texas state legislative policy and has focused on special education, health care, long term services and supports, transition, employment and higher education. Chris also brings the perspective and experiences of a parent of a child with a disability. Chris’ motivation and inspiration comes from his two wonderful children and exceptionally wonderful wife. Chris can be reached at Chris@texasautismsociety.org.
Jacquie Benestante, Deputy Director
Jacquie Benestante works on communications, outreach, advocacy and programs. She serves on the Autism Society of America’s Public Policy Advocacy Committee and is on the steering committee for Texans For Special Education Reform. She is a graduate of the 2018-19 class of Texas Partners in Policymaking. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Jacquie has two family members with autism and is honored to advocate for the needs of autistic children and adults. She can be reached at Jacquie@texasautismsociety.org.
Jordan Fogle, Projects Assistant
Jordan Fogle is currently pursuing a Masters of Music degree in Music and Human Learning from the University of Texas at Austin. He has served diverse populations facilitating vocational, recreational, and therapeutic programs in healthcare and educational settings. During the 85th Texas state legislative session, Jordan worked at the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities as a special education policy assistant and has since remained engaged in cross-disability advocacy activities. He recently decided to go back to school to bridge his interests in successful inclusion practices, pedagogy, and musical healing, and to acquire the formal training he needs to make music more central to his professional life. Jordan plays the drums with multiple Austin-area bands! Jordan can be reached at Jordan@texasautismsociety.org.