The registration deadline for all programs for individuals with WS at the convention - ages infant through adult - is now closed. Registration for parents and caregivers attending without children will remain open until July 12, 2022.
Terry Monkaba
Executive Director
Terry Monkaba received her undergraduate degree from Rutgers University and her Masters Degree in Business Administration from Oakland University. She was enjoying a 10- year career as a corporate photographer when her first son, Ben was born and subsequently diagnosed with Williams syndrome at 6 weeks of age.
Terry began volunteering for the Williams Syndrome Association when Ben was 4 years old. She has been with the WSA since 1990, serving as regional director, Board member, Board President and since 1995, Executive Director. During that time she has had the privilege of helping to grow the Association from a small parent support group to a thriving non-profit providing support to thousands of individuals with WS and their families worldwide. Terry and her husband Gary, have 2 grown sons – Benjamin and Adam, and reside in Troy, Michigan.
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.
Jessica Cummins
Operations and Marketing Specialist
Jessica joined the Williams Syndrome Association in January 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science in Business/Management with an additional major in marketing. After several years in the insurance arena, she knew right away that nonprofit work and the WSA was the fit for her. Jessica utilizes both her business and marketing/graphic design expertise at the WSA, assuming responsibility for bookkeeping and program administration as well as creative design for event marketing materials. When not at work, Jessica spends time with her husband Nick and daughter Zoey, who has grown up around the WSA office.
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 Maricopa, AZ (outside Phoenix) 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.
Jennifer O'Byrne
Volunteer and Event Coordinator
Jennifer joined the WSA team in June 2011. With 11+ years in the nonprofit sector and nearly 25 years of experience in event management to date, Jennifer brings rich experience to the WSA. She loves planning events, securing volunteers, and interacting with WSA members – especially adults with Williams syndrome. Jennifer notes that “the individuals with Williams syndrome are the best part of my job—they are my people.”
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.