As the 46th President of the United States, Joe Biden has long championed the protection and expansion of Social Security. Throughout his public service, he prioritized policies that support individuals with disabilities and promote long-term economic security. His leadership reflects a continued commitment to strengthening disability benefits and ensuring fair access to essential services for millions of Americans.

Martin O’Malley served as the 61st Governor of Maryland from 2007 to 2015, and as Mayor of Baltimore from 1999 to 2007. During his tenure, he earned national recognition for introducing CitiStat and StateStat, real-time data tracking systems that improved public performance and accountability. His leadership helped Maryland achieve the top national ranking for public education and expanded access to health care and public services. Most recently, Governor O’Malley served as Commissioner of the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA), where he led efforts to improve customer service, reduce hearing backlogs, and expand access to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits by eliminating administrative barriers. These reforms directly benefited individuals with disabilities and demonstrated his enduring commitment to justice and inclusion. ​ With a career defined by public service, data-driven reform, and a strong commitment to equity, Governor O’Malley will play a central role in advancing ACRD’s strategic vision and expanding its national impact. As Chair of the Advisory Board, he will provide strategic guidance to ACRD leadership and help elevate the organization’s profile among policymakers, educators, and national partners.

Senator Debbie Stabenow had an impressive 50-year career as an elected official, culminating with her service as a United States Senator for 24 years before her retirement in 2025. Throughout her career in the Senate, Senator Stabenow championed many worthwhile causes that benefit all Americans, including her tireless work regarding healthcare, disability rights, and mental health policy. Senator Stabenow was instrumental in passing key provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which improved access to healthcare services for people with disabilities, and played a central role in expanding mental health parity laws to ensure better coverage for behavioral health treatment. As a lifelong champion for healthcare equity, Senator Stabenow’s role on ACRD’s Advisory Board will further strengthen the organization’s ability to serve as a leader in disability representation and professional education. She will help shape strategic initiatives, engage with policymakers, and provide expertise on advancing disability advocacy at the national level.

Senator Roy Blunt served in the U.S. Senate from 2011 through 2023 and in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1997-2011. Throughout his Congressional tenure, he was a champion for bipartisan solutions, successfully bridging political divides to pass legislation that directly improved the lives of individuals with disabilities. His leadership helped enact the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, empowering people with disabilities to build financial security without jeopardizing critical benefits, and the Excellence in Mental Health Act, a landmark initiative expanding Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) to ensure round-the-clock access to mental health and addiction treatment services. Senator Blunt’s appointment reaffirms ACRD’s commitment to bipartisan leadership and its dedication to advancing disability rights through education, training, and professional advocacy. As an Advisory Board member, Senator Blunt will provide strategic insight, engage with national policymakers, and help shape initiatives that support disability professionals across the country.

It is a privilege to join Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD) as Executive Director. From the moment I learned about this organization, I was inspired by its commitment to equipping professionals with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to champion inclusion and advocate for systemic change. My career in nonprofit leadership has been shaped by a passion for fostering innovation, building collaborative ecosystems, and driving impactful outcomes that align with organizational missions. Whether orchestrating cross-functional initiatives to enhance community engagement or leading organizations through transformative periods of growth, I have always focused on bridging vision and execution. My leadership journey has taken me across a variety of mission-driven organizations, from leading large-scale programmatic strategies to cultivating partnerships that expand impact. At ACRD, I see the opportunity to bring this experience to further enhance the resources, networks, and influence that define this organization. In pursuit of a Ph.D. in Sustainability and Social Justice from Prescott College, as well as advanced degrees in Organizational Leadership and Curriculum and Instruction, I have deepened my commitment to advancing equity and empowering professionals to create sustainable change. Personally, I’m driven by the belief that meaningful progress happens when communities come together to share knowledge, amplify their voices, and collectively pursue solutions to the challenges we face. Looking forward, my priorities are clear: to deepen the value ACRD delivers to its members, to amplify the organization’s influence within the broader advocacy landscape, and to ensure that our collective work continues to lead the field. Outside of my professional work, I find joy in reading and exploring the outdoors—a love that traces back to my roots in South Africa. Growing up surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, I developed an early appreciation for adventure and a knack for finding beauty in unexpected places. It is an honor to contribute to the important work of empowering advocates, counselors, and representatives who are making a tangible difference in the lives of so many. I look forward to the journey ahead.

Missy Parsons comes to ACRD with over 15 years of diverse experience in both legal and operational management in the Social Security Disability industry through her roles as an Operations & Training Manager and EDPNA. Throughout her career, Missy has worked tirelessly to advocate for claimants, providing them with the guidance and resources needed to overcome obstacles and achieve favorable outcomes. By improving internal processes, training team members, and ensuring legal compliance, she helped create an environment where the disabled community was better served through exceptional, efficient, and compassionate care. Missy remains dedicated to making a meaningful impact through driving operational excellence to enhance the services you deliver. She believes that when organizations work efficiently and with compassion, they can truly make a difference in the lives of those they serve. Her commitment to continuous improvement, team development, and client advocacy ensures that she is always focused on achieving the best outcomes for the community we support.

Bartholomew C. Zadel attended Bethany College attaining a Bachelors Degree in Sociology and received his Law Degree from The University of Toledo College of Law. After being admitted to the Florida Bar in 1993, Mr. Zadel began concentrating on cases involving Social Security Disability and has been helping the nation’s injured and disabled ever since. While representing claimants in Social Security Disability claims, he has appeared at thousands of disability hearings before the Social Security Administration and has represented his disability clients in appeals to the Federal Court. Since 2017, Mr. Zadel has been the Managing Partner of the Social Security Disability and Veteran’s Benefits practices at Morgan & Morgan. In that time the Social Security Disability practice at Morgan & Morgan has doubled in size and is now one of the top ten firms in the nation in fees. Mr. Zadel has also testified as an expert witness on Social Security Disability matters and has had articles published regarding practices of the Social Security Administration. He is a Sustaining Member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives and is admitted to practice in Florida and the United States District Court, Middle District of Florida.

Michael is not your typical lawyer. As the founder of one of the most innovative Social Security disability practices in the country, he’s on a mission to do more than just win cases—he’s here to change the game. With years of experience representing clients across the spectrum of disability claims, Michael specializes in navigating the complexities of the Social Security system to deliver life-changing results for his clients. Whether it’s simplifying daunting legal processes or pushing for systemic improvements, Michael brings his signature blend of compassion, strategy, and relentless advocacy to every challenge. Michael is also an innovator in the legal space, constantly leveraging social media to educate and empower audiences about their rights. From TikTok videos breaking down disability law with clarity and humor to leading national conversations about systemic reform, Michael ensures his work reaches people where they are—online and beyond. When he’s not practicing law, you might find Michael brainstorming creative strategies to make the Social Security system fairer for all, mentoring young lawyers, or figuring out ways to make his business run more efficiently for the benefit of his clients. Whether he’s speaking at a conference or inspiring his audience, Michael’s message is clear: the law isn’t just about rules—it’s about people, and it’s time to make it work for everyone.

Jeff Truthan serves the rehabilitation and disability management industry since 1973. He is a 1973 graduate of the University of Notre Dame with a BA in Psychology. He earned a Master of Science Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the Illinois Institute of Technology in 1975. Jeff spent nine years in direct client services as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and Vocational Evaluator. From 1985 to 1997, Jeff used his "knowledge from the trenches" to serve in various support, sales, training, product and management capacities at Ability Information Systems / CAPCO: The Capability Corporation / JobQuest where he designed and supported a mix of PC and online products. He acquired those products in 1998 from JobQuest. In 2010, Jeff acquired the VERTEK product line, including OccuBrowse, OccuBrowse Plus, OASYS, and OASYS Job Match. As President of SkillTRAN, Jeff spearheaded a multi-year effort to re-engineer these classic services into a modern web-based format, launching these services beginning in 2016. Jeff has designed a revolutionary new industry context approach to the interpretation of labor market information that has achieved widespread industry acceptance in multiple markets. As these code systems shift and change, Jeff continues his comprehensive review of the relationship of DOT occupations and SOC-based occupational groups to NAICS industry coding, to be able to provide the most comprehensive linkage available. Current work includes proper integration of the latest Occupational Requirements Survey (ORS) data. Jeff will soon be launching a new DOT/ORS product called the “Hypo Handler”, specifically designed for calculation of job numbers using either/or DOT or available ORS data. Jeff is highly attuned to the needs of vocational experts, claimant representatives, rehabilitation, and disability management professionals. He is constantly inspired by their great questions and suggestions.

Cindy Nasser is the General Manager of one of the largest disability representative firms. Premier Disability Services. Cindy joined the team in September 2022. She leverages her extensive experience building and optimizing organizational processes and infrastructure to maximize service, revenue, and profitability. Her broad areas of expertise include analytics, operations, negotiations, turnarounds, startups, CRM, strategic planning, vendor management, and outsourcing. Cindy holds a BS in Business Management from the University of Phoenix and is a Six Sigma Black Belt. Cindy is also passionate about helping the foster care community. She was a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for 6 years and has been a Board Member and Treasurer for the California CASA Association.

Jennifer Morgan is a dynamic force in Social Security disability and education law. As the founder and lead attorney of Impact Disability Law, she has built a national practice that does more than win cases—it transforms lives. With deep expertise in the complexities of Social Security regulations, Jennifer is a trusted advocate, helping clients across the country secure the life-changing benefits they deserve. Based in Denver, Colorado, Jennifer brings passion, precision, and heart to every case. She believes every client’s story matters and is honored to walk alongside them on their journey to stability, dignity, and peace of mind. Since 2007, Jennifer has also been a leader in education law, working to ensure students nationwide have access to high-quality education. Her work in compliance, monitoring, and technical assistance has shaped programs that meet federal and state standards—removing barriers and opening doors for students to thrive. An educator at heart, Jennifer regularly trains attorneys, social workers, and organizations on the nuances of SSDI and SSI, empowering professionals to better serve their communities. Her voice is also present in national policy discussions, where she champions systemic improvements in disability access and benefits. Whether in the courtroom, the classroom, or the policy arena, Jennifer is driven by a single goal: making the system work for the people it was meant to serve. She holds a law degree from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arizona State University, where she was a proud member of the Sun Devils Women’s Basketball Team. Outside of her legal work, Jennifer is mom to her son, Hudson, whose love for basketball, baseball, and animation keeps life joyful. She’s also a proud dog mom to Harvey and Scout, her two English Cream Golden Retrievers.

Adam Banton is a Partner at Disability Attorneys of Michigan™, bringing 15 years of experience as a Social Security Attorney. He earned his law degree from Wayne State University Law School, following a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan with a major in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice. Throughout his career, Adam has developed a deep understanding of the intersection between legal strategy and firm performance. He is passionate about the importance of law firm metrics and how they can drive operational efficiency, enhance client outcomes, and improve overall business success.

Samantha J. Ball is a Partner at Disability Attorneys of Michigan™, where she focuses on representing clients in Social Security Disability cases. Samantha earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and her Juris Doctor from Wayne State University.  Her career has been marked by a steadfast focus the last 18 years on representing clients with disabilities, ensuring they receive the benefits and support they are entitled to under the law.  Outside of her legal practice, Samantha is actively engaged in community outreach and advocacy efforts to raise awareness, share knowledge, and provide guidance about disability programs through educational events.

Joshua Eyestone received a B.A. in Spanish from the Pennsylvania State University in 1995 and his law degree from St. Mary's University School of Law in 2004. While studying law Joshua obtained a third-year student bar card and helped indigent clients with legal matters through the St. Mary's University School of Law Center for Legal and Social Justice. Born in New Jersey, Joshua learned to speak Spanish while living abroad in Venezuela for a semester as an undergraduate student. As a resident of South Texas for over 10 years, Joshua is able to regularly communicate with clients in Spanish. Before coming to work for Heard and Smith, Joshua owned a law office that concentrated on family, criminal defense, and property law. Joshua has demonstrated his strong commitment to serve the poor and underserved people within our community over the years by taking on several pro bono cases. Joshua continues to defend the rights of the disabled and the poor by working in Heard & Smith's Social Security Disability practice group. Joshua is a member of the San Antonio Bar Association, the Texas State Bar, and the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives.

Lawrence Rohlfing is the owner and proprietor of a nine-attorney firm in Santa Fe Springs, California where he practices Social Security disability almost exclusively. Larry is admitted to practice in California, the district courts in California, Colorado, used to be admitted in Arizona until they changed their rules about out of state lawyers, and is admitted to the Ninth and Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals having lapsed his admission to the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. He represented parties in over 30 published opinions of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, California Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court, arguing for the respondent in Black and Decker Disability v. Nord, and losing 9-0. Larry received his B.A. degree from Whittier College and his J.D. degree, cum laude, from Whittier College School of Law which folded in 2017. He served four years as an Appellate Lawyer Representative to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Judicial Council. He served one term on the advisory committee to the Ninth Circuit Rules Committee. Larry is a sustaining member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives and was a member of the Council of Past Presidents until the council was disbanded. Larry is the proud father of seven children and 11 and a half grandchildren, the 12th is due in August 2025 . He plans on taking over the world with his children and grandchildren.

Rodnie Silva is a seasoned leader in digital marketing and SaaS sales, with over 15 years of experience driving revenue growth, optimizing client engagement, and building high-performing teams. As the Director of Sales & Client Services at Disability Law Marketing and LM Summary Services, Rodnie has redefined go-to-market strategies and spearheaded process improvements for their clients; disability law firms and advocates. Throughout his career, Rodnie has consistently demonstrated expertise in managing strategic initiatives that deliver measurable results. Notable accomplishments include overseeing digital transformation projects, doubling customer bases, and exceeding key performance indicators in organizations across diverse industries. His leadership at White Shark Media helped grow their client base by 300%, while his strategic vision guided Hawk Machine Works through a comprehensive digital transformation. Rodnie's career is defined by his ability to identify growth opportunities and implement innovative solutions tailored to his clients' needs. His work spans sales management, digital strategy, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational efficiency and customer success. Outside of work, Rodnie enjoys mentoring aspiring sales professionals and being an ultra-fan of his kids in youth soccer.

Brad Cassity is a seasoned technology leader with over a decade of experience in information systems, software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. As a key contributor at ACRD, Brad is dedicated to building innovative software solutions, automating processes, and safeguarding sensitive information through robust cybersecurity principles. With a Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems and Technology from the University of Utah, along with continued education in AI and machine learning, he remains at the forefront of emerging technology trends. Throughout his career, Brad has led transformative technology initiatives, leveraging his expertise to enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation. His passion for problem-solving and strategic automation has enabled businesses to streamline workflows and fortify their security posture in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Whether designing cutting-edge AI applications or developing secure enterprise solutions, Brad is committed to delivering impactful, forward-thinking technology. Beyond his professional endeavors, Brad enjoys playing golf, diving into software development projects, and spending quality time with his kids. His dedication to both technology and family underscores his drive to create solutions that not only optimize business processes but also improve everyday life.

Maren Miller Bam is the owner of Salus Disability, the fastest-growing Social Security appeals firm in the country. Under her leadership, Salus has become a driving force in SSD Appeals, a nationwide initiative dedicated to connecting disability claimants with high-quality representation at the Appeals Council and in federal court. Through proprietary technology, SSD Appeals streamlines the appeals process for referring firms, receiving firms, and claimants, providing real-time case status updates and improving outcomes across the board. A former executive board member of NOSSCR, Maren had concerns about the lack of education and technology training within the industry. This led her to become a driving force in building ACRD into the premier trade organization for Social Security representatives. She is a founding board member of ACRD and is committed to developing resources to ensure representatives have access to the best training, advocacy tools, and community engagement opportunities available. Maren’s work is driven by a passion for innovation, access to justice, and strengthening the disability representation community. Through both Salus Disability and ACRD, she is reshaping the landscape of Social Security representation, ensuring that claimants receive expert advocacy at every stage of the process.

Paula is a passionate and experienced organizational leader with a 30-year career specializing in Medicare Marketplace programs and employer group benefits. She has extensive expertise in building and managing strategic Medicare operations that generate supplemental revenue opportunities for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) representation organizations. Paula is committed to fostering effective business partnerships that deliver exceptional customer service, ensure compliance, and drive innovative problem-solving. As President of Insurance Branch since 2016, Paula leads a team of experts dedicated to educating and guiding thousands of disabled beneficiaries eligible for Medicare benefits. She works closely with law firms and non-attorney representatives to ensure ethical and comprehensive client service, particularly regarding Medicare entitlement for Social Security Disability awards. Prior to this, Paula served as Operations Manager at Allsup from 2008 to 2016, where she oversaw the Medicare Plan Selection team for one of the nation’s largest Social Security Disability representation organizations. Her accomplishments include establishing a new insurance agency subsidiary, managing compliance with federal and state regulations, and integrating Medicare benefit assistance into post-SSDI services.

Brendon Cassity has dedicated his career to advancing the rights and opportunities of Americans with disabilities. As the father of a non-verbal autistic son, he has a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, fueling his commitment to systemic change. Beyond personal experience, he has invested significant time, resources, and financial support into initiatives that drive policy reform, expand access to critical benefits, and strengthen support systems for the disability community. As a board member of multiple nonprofits, he plays a key role in shaping national conversations on disability rights and advocacy. Over the past 15 years, Brendon has built businesses that have helped more than one million SSDI clients referred by legal professionals, ensuring they receive the guidance and support necessary to navigate complex disability benefits. His organizations set a new benchmark for advocacy, prioritizing fairness, accessibility, and tangible outcomes for the individuals they serve. Yet his influence extends far beyond direct services. A recognized authority in disability policy and insurance reform, Brendon works alongside executives at the world’s largest insurance companies to drive meaningful policy changes that better serve individuals with disabilities. His efforts have been instrumental in securing critical Medicare rule updates, expanding protections, and improving access for millions of beneficiaries. His strategic leadership has also advanced legal appeals, technology solutions, and legislative initiatives that have strengthened the disability advocacy profession. Positioned at the intersection of business, policy, and advocacy, Brendon is a trusted voice among the nation’s leading disability law firms and organizations. He doesn’t just respond to challenges, he anticipates them, working to develop solutions that create lasting impact. His legacy is defined by action, results, and a steadfast commitment to a more equitable system for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Mr. Johnson is a founding partner of the Salt Lake City, Utah based law firm—Bennett Tueller Johnson & Deere (BTJD). He founded BTJD with a couple of college buddies after each of them had commenced their careers with large, elite law firms. They have grown BTJD to over 35 lawyers. It is a full service commercial firm. BTJD is highly regarded for its stable of top-notch lawyers—lawyers who know how to achieve the best possible results for their clients. At BTJD, Mr. Johnson serves on the firm’s management committee. He routinely advises the firm and other firms on law firm management, conflicts of interest, and ethics issues. He also leads BTJD’s commercial litigation section. Managing and trying cases—particularly jury trials—is what he enjoys most about his job. For nearly thirty years, he has successfully managed complex, high-stakes disputes involving a wide array of subject matters: partnership disputes, class actions, securities fraud cases, employment disputes (including disputes relating to the enforceability of restrictive covenants), trade secret litigation, real estate development disputes, construction defect litigation, and adversary proceedings in bankruptcy cases. Mr. Johnson has been a member of the Utah State Bar since 1992. He is admitted to practice law in Utah state and federal courts, the Ninth and Tenth Circuit Courts of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. He has repeatedly been selected by his peers as one of Utah’s “Legal Elite.” Mr. Johnson received his Bachelor of Arts degree in American Studies from Brigham Young University in 1988. He received his Juris Doctorate degree and graduated cum laude from Willamette University School of Law in Salem, Oregon. There, he won the first year moot court competition and served as Articles Editor for the Willamette University Law Review. When not practicing law, Mr. Johnson enjoys being outside and active. He has trained for and run thirty-five marathons, and he loves to mountain bike and hike peaks. He has qualified for and run the Boston Marathon. He has climbed Mt. Whitney—the highest peak in the continental United States—twice. And twice he has completed the vaunted forty-six mile Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim trek across the Grand Canyon—once in 20 hours and once in 15 hours. Mr. Johnson’s more relaxing hobbies include boating, skiing, and wake surfing. Mr. Johnson is active in his church and community, devoting 15 to 20 hours a week to such service. He and his wife, Tonya, reside in Alpine, Utah. They have six children and three grandchildren. Their family is their greatest source of happiness and joy.

Founder, Executive Vice President & Head of Corporate Development Ari P. Kornhaber is a former trial lawyer who represented plaintiffs in personal injury, medical malpractice and mass tort litigations. Subsequently, Ari was a Founder and Senior Officer at a family of financial service companies that provided litigation financing to lawyers, law firms and their clients. Having been both a practicing contingency fee lawyer, who has experience bringing cases to verdict, coupled with being a financial service provider to the legal community for more than 15 years, Ari has a rare perspective and a deep understanding of the unique financial issues practicing lawyers face. Currently, Ari can often be found on stage presenting at various trial lawyer association conferences and seminars across the country, as well as abroad, or online presenting on webinars, webcasts and podcasts. Ari obtained his Bachelor of Science in Business Economics from Oneonta Sate College and he holds a JD from Touro Law School.

Brett Dils is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience at Jan Dils Attorneys at Law. A graduate of the NADA Dealer Academy and Marietta College, Brett’s career trajectory spans both the automotive and legal sectors. At just 28 years old, he made history as the youngest Ford Dealer in the U.S. and has also served as a Ford-Lincoln-Mercury and Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep dealer. Throughout his career, Brett has honed his expertise in human capital, marketing, sales, and leadership development, consistently driving innovation and success. His vast experience, combined with his passion for developing people and strategies, has positioned him as a key leader in both industries he’s served.

Mr. Anklowitz is the Managing Attorney of the Social Security Department at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP, representing clients in Social Security Disability matters. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from the College of New Jersey in 1994 and his Juris Doctor from Touro College, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center in 1998. He is admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, Florida and in the Federal Courts of the Eastern, Western, and Southern Districts of New York and the District of New Jersey. Prior to joining the firm, he was an associate at other large national disability firms handling hundreds of claims annually. He is also engaged in the general practice of law representing clients in Commercial Litigation, Securities Litigation, Estates, Wills and Trusts, Criminal Defense, Contracts, Personal Injury, and Bankruptcy. Mr. Anklowitz volunteers regularly to assist Veterans in their legal and personal needs. He regularly attends and organizes events intended to assist veterans, including fund raising, visiting nursing homes, funerals, memorials, and even going to Veterans’ homes to provide counsel on personal matters. Mr. Anklowitz is a Past-Commander of the Sons of the American Legion and Past-Judge Advocate for his local American Legion Post.

Andrew Youngman is the President and CEO of Citizens Disability and is responsible for the design, implementation, and execution of business strategy. Prior to Citizens Disability, Andy held roles with Internet Venture Works (a private equity firm), Lesley University (a private education provider), and Marakon Associates (a leading strategy consulting firm). Andy holds an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a BA in Economics from Northwestern University. He is a non-advocate representative eligible for direct payment from the SSA (EDPNA) and a member of the Young President’s Association (YPO).