CReWS collects and organizes information & medical records on people with Williams syndrome and connects families to doctors and scientists currently researching the condition. Click the button to learn more and join!
Dr. Mary VanHaneghan
Executive Director
Throughout her 20-year career, Mary has demonstrated the skills necessary to lead across a variety of areas crucial to the WSA’s continued progress. Mary began her career as a direct service professional working in residential programming; during her tenure, she worked in various capacities including day habilitation, residential habilitation, post-secondary education, transitional services, case management, supported employment, behavioral health, nursing, and early intervention. Since 2013, she has served as the Chief Executive Officer for chapters of The Arc in both Alaska and Texas. Prior to these roles, she worked for one of Western New York’s largest nonprofit health and human service agencies and assisted in creating systematic change across the state.
Dr. Van Haneghan earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Buffalo, a master’s degree in adult education and literacy from Buffalo State College, and a doctorate in education from Walden University. Her academic research has focused on individuals who experience intellectual or developmental disabilities and ranges from historical institutional models to the benefits of post-secondary education.
Michele Bauer
Volunteer and Event Associate
Michele has a bachelor’s degree in arts management with a minor in marketing. She has deep experience as a volunteer and parent group leader in the public school system. Michele is known for her decorating skills and estate sale finds, and enjoys gardening and spending time with her sons and her dogs.
Laurie Fundukian
Communications Coordinator
Laurie has both BA and MA degrees in English with a focus on communications and writing. She joined the WSA in 2016 following positions in communications and as a writer and editor for an academic publisher. Her work mentoring and tutoring at-risk children, helping the homeless with a micro-entrepreneurial project, and volunteering for local theaters and the symphony, lead her to nonprofit work. She also teaches English and literature at the college level and has been an actor and musician her whole life. Laurie enjoys interacting with individuals with WS, as the tables are turned and they teach her.
Sarah Giddings
Program Manager
Sarah joined the WSA as staff in 2021, but has been involved since her son Matthew was diagnosed in 2003 when he was 13 months old. She has served as one of our regional chair volunteers and as a member of our board of trustees. In addition to her volunteer work with us, Sarah is a Partners in Policymaking graduate, and volunteers as a parent leader for Raising Special Kids. Her past professional positions have included leadership roles in learning and development, communications, sales, and events. She currently resides in Melbourne, FL with her husband Mike and their four children: daughter Taegon, sons Matthew (WS, born in 2002), Devyn, and Connor. In her spare time, she enjoys music, travel, crafts, and building with Lego.
Mike McFall
Membership Services and Philanthropy Associate
Mike McFall received his bachelor’s degree in community development and public administration from Central Michigan University. He joined the Williams Syndrome Association in 2010 as the Communications Manager. After a short hiatus from the WSA while in CA for 2 years, Mike rejoined the WSA team as the Membership Services and Philanthropy Associate in 2019. Mike is an elected member of city council and enjoys traveling all over the world.
Robin Pegg, MEd, COTA/L, ATP, Education Consultant
Education Consultant
Robin is an Assistive Technology Practitioner who specializes in curriculum access. Robin works with individuals with all types of disabilities and has specialized in the unique needs of individuals with Williams syndrome for 20 years.