Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its board of directors, each of whom bring a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the organization.
“I am excited to welcome Amanda Aguirre, Monica Coury and Ken McElroy to our board,” says SARRC President and CEO Daniel Openden. “Each of them have a passionate commitment to our mission and the desire to help shape an ambitious future for SARRC.”
Aguirre, former Arizona State Senator, is currently president and CEO of the Regional Center for Border Health Inc. in Yuma, Arizona. In 2003, Aguirre became the first female and first Hispanic member to represent District 24 in the Arizona House of Representatives and in the Arizona State Senate where she served through 2010. In addition, Aguirre sponsored Steven’s Law in 2008, requiring insurance companies to provide coverage for autism treatment.
“Amanda’s leadership in the legislature, and in sponsoring Steven’s Law specifically, continues to positively impact the lives of families with children with autism today, so we’re very excited to have her join our board,” says Openden. “Her long-standing relationship with SARRC, influence she’s had among the broader autism community, and more than 30 years as a leader in health care and business administration will have a significant effect on our organization.”
Coury is the vice president of legislative and government affairs for Centene Corporation, which manages several health plans including Bridgeway Health Solutions, Health Net, Cenpatico Integrated Care and Ambetter from Health Net. Coury has worked extensively in the healthcare sector and has a deep knowledge of health care policy both at the state and federal level.
“Monica has pioneered major efforts in Arizona as it relates to autism and our state’s healthcare system,” says Openden. “Her expertise with the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), Medicaid and sensitivity to the systems issues that challenge individuals with autism and their families will be an invaluable asset to SARRC as we work to better help our families access critical services and supports.”
McElroy oversees MC Companies’ asset portfolio and leads the day-today operations, including financial and operating analysis, investor relations and business development. A 20-year industry veteran, he has also served in numerous leadership roles in multi-family asset and property management.
Openden said, “In 2015, Ken quickly became a trailblazer for the Autism Speaks Walk in Partnership with SARRC serving as Phoenix Walk Chairman. Through his leadership, Ken shaped the event to be one of the Valley’s largest walks. Ken’s extensive business background coupled with his passion for autism, will bring great talent, expertise and energy to SARRC.”