ASGA Staff

Nathan Briggs has led the Autism Society of Greater Akron since October 2024, bringing nearly 20 years of experience supporting the Autism community. His career spans roles as a direct support professional, administrator, and executive – all dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals and families.

He holds an Executive MBA from Case Western Reserve University, a Master of Public Administration from Marist College, and a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education from SUNY New Paltz. His leadership is also shaped by his service as a crew chief in the New York State Air National Guard during 9/11 and the War on Terror.

As only the second Executive Director in ASGA’s history, Nathan is proud to build on the foundation of his predecessor and continue advancing the mission of connecting and empowering the Greater Akron Autism community.

Lisa Thompson is the Senior Director of Programs at the Autism Society of Greater Akron. She got involved in 2011 as a volunteer camp director for the iCan Bike Camp, and has now been part of the team since 2012.

Lisa has a background in business and marketing from Mars Hill College in Asheville, North Carolina, but her real passion is helping families living the Autism journey feel supported and included. As a mom to twin boys-one of whom is on the Autism spectrum-she knows firsthand how overwhelming the journey can be. That’s why she works hard to create programs and training that make life a little easier and a lot more joyful for families.

She lives in Copley with her husband Greg and their sons, Joshua and Jordan. When they’re not working, the Thompsons love snow tubing, visiting water parks and beaches, playing video games and pinball, watching movies, and traveling together.

Melanie Timco, PhD, serves as Senior Director of Development at the Autism Society of Greater Akron. With experience across both the education and business sectors, Melanie brings a values-centered approach to advancement and honoring the support behind it. She holds a Doctorate in Education and Organizational Leadership, two Master’s degrees from the University of Cincinnati and Baldwin Wallace University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Akron.

She and her husband are grateful parents of three neurodiverse sons, ages 9, 19, and 22. Parenting across these ages and stages has deepened her connection to the Autism community and her respect for their strength and vibrant individuality.

In the quiet of everyday life, Melanie finds restoration in simple, meaningful rhythms. She treasures being outside, visiting as many National Parks as she can, and savoring a great meal. These moments show what she believes a community is built on: acceptance, belonging, and the chance for everyone to embrace their fullest selves.

Kelly Clark is the Community Training Specialist at ASGA. Kelly oversees the Autism Friendly Communities program and the DOJ Kevin and Avonte grant in training police officers about Autism. For 20 years, Kelly’s background was in education and curriculum. She has a BA in Integrated Social Studies Education and two MAs in Administration and Curriculum and Instruction.

Kelly currently resides in Stow with her children: Andrew and Aria. Her personal and professional lives intersected when her daughter was diagnosed with Autism in 2023. Kelly’s passion is making the community more accepting of our loved ones with Autism to improve their experiences. When not at work, Kelly enjoys spending time with her family and her partner Rob, reading, watching movies/shows (especially Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Game of Thrones), and playing the piano.

Suzanne Erb is an Education and Program Coordinator for ASGA. She graduated with a BA in Environmental Studies from Connecticut College, and she received her MA in Education and Leadership from the University of Notre Dame of Maryland.

Suzanne was a middle school science educator for 12 years, and she and her family moved to Akron from Annapolis, Maryland. Her son, James, was diagnosed with Autism when he was 3 and half years old. “The only thing that changed that day was my husband’s and my ability to access services to better serve our son.” She came to ASGA with the desire to serve the community of people with Autism and to find a supportive community.

Suzanne is a Master Gardener in Summit County and enjoys growing vegetables and converting her yard to native plants to encourage beneficial insects. Her husband, Dan, loves to cook and eat the veggies she grows, and her son, James, enjoys watching the bees that visit the flowers. They also like to travel and enjoy the outdoors.

Your contribution helps connect children and adults with Autism, as well as their families to the support they need when they need it.