Music for Autism Welcomes Robin Ann McIntosh and Debra Katz, MD to Board of Directors
Music for Autism is proud to announce the addition of two new members, Robin Ann McIntosh and Debra Katz, MD, to its Board of Directors. Their wealth of experience and deep passion for positively impacting the lives of people with autism will be invaluable as the organization continues its mission to enhance lives through the power of music.
Robin Ann McIntosh is an extraordinary leader and product/designer in healthcare tech. She is the co-founder of and was, for a decade, the CEO of WorkIt Health, the leading tech-enabled substance use disorder clinic. She is now founder and CEO of Avela, which offers tech-enabled autism services. She is the parent of a child with autism and immensely passionate about Music for Autism’s mission.
“Robin is a visionary leader whose passion for improving lives through technology is truly unmatched,” said Robert Accordino, MD, MSc, US Founder and Board Chair of Music for Autism. “As a parent of a child with autism, her personal commitment to our mission is deeply inspiring, and her extensive experience in healthcare tech will undoubtedly drive Music for Autism to new heights. We are beyond thrilled to have her as part of our team, and her leadership will make an indelible impact on our ability to reach and serve even more families.”
Debra Katz, MD, is a pediatric and adult psychiatrist and senior medical director of medicaid services at Optum Behavioral Health. She has had a diverse array of clinical experiences in psychiatry, with significant background in working with deaf patients. She is also the parent of a young man with autism.
“Dr. Debra Katz is a compassionate and highly skilled physician whose wealth of knowledge in both psychiatry and autism makes her a perfect fit for our board,” said Robert. “Her expertise in working with diverse patient populations, combined with her personal experiences with autism, will bring invaluable insight to our operations. We are so fortunate to have her with us, and her dedication to mental health and autism services will help us continue to build a more inclusive world.”
Both Robin and Debra share a passion for the transformative power of music and the positive effects it can have on individuals with autism. As board members, they will play an essential role in shaping the future of Music for Autism.
The Board of Directors, staff, and families served by Music for Autism are excited to welcome Robin and Debra to the organization. Together, they will help strengthen Music for Autism’s efforts to create a world where all individuals, regardless of ability, can experience the joy and healing power of music.
