Heather Burroughs

Advocacy & Education Director

Heather Burroughs understands the challenges faced by individuals with developmental differences. Growing up, her sister experienced Autism at a time when few knew about the spectrum and schools were just starting to include students with disabilities. Inspired by her family’s experiences, Heather followed in her father’s footsteps and became a school psychologist.

While Heather is also an experienced public speaker, mentor/coach, author, and podcast host, her favorite titles are wife and mother. Her family resides in Hilton with their many cats, dogs, and birds. It is a full house! Heather's children have varying levels of need, with three on the spectrum. When her daughter Devyn was denied support to use her medical service dog at school, Heather collaborated with the NYS Department of Education and the US Department of Justice to set a legal precedent that prevents schools from using a student’s disability (like being nonspeaking) as the reason for denying them reasonable accommodations.

As a family member and professional with 16 years in education, 7 years in healthcare, and the last few years in the nonprofit arena, Heather comes to AU with a balanced and needed perspective. We look forward to her efforts to shift the focus away from the deficits highlighted in traditional assessments/diagnoses, so we can help reduce the stigma and isolation experienced by many of our families. Heather’s initiatives will educate and empower people to advocate effectively across systems.

Heather is thrilled to join AU to unite voices, build bridges, and find solutions that give families peace of mind about what the future holds for our loved ones.