YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Autism Society of Mahoning Valley recently announced that Ashley Douglas, Deonna Lampley and Julie Santha have been appointed to the organization’s board of directors.

Douglas is a Youngstown native and small business banking and SBA closing officer with WesBanco Bank, bringing nearly two decades of experience in financial leadership and retail management. Her community involvement includes serving as president of Alta Head Start’s Policy Council and continued board service with Alta Head Start and Behavioral Health. Her advocacy for individuals with autism began at an early age through volunteer work in local schools.

Lampley is a Youngstown native and licensed social worker with degrees from Youngstown State University and Our Lady of the Lake University. Her professional experience includes advocacy, clinical and crisis work and child and adolescent development. She has been a volunteer with the ASMV for several years and has a strong passion for community-centered support and family advocacy.

Santha is the accounting supervisor at Alta Care Group and has more than 10 years of experience in accounting, supervision and organizational leadership. A graduate of YSU, she brings a commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency. As the mother of a child on the autism spectrum, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her role on the ASMV board.

“We are proud to welcome these new board members at an important moment for our organization,” said Aundréa Cika Heschmeyer, Autism Society of Mahoning Valley board president. “Each brings professional expertise, lived experience and a deep commitment to being the connection for individuals and families from diagnosis through every stage of life. Their leadership will help guide ASMV forward with strength, transparency and compassion.”

In addition to Heschmeyer, the organization’s 2026 board officers are Laura McBride, vice president; Ashley Roberts, treasurer; and ShoMoré Wright, secretary.

Pictured at top: From left are Ashley Douglas, Deonna Lampley and Julie Santha.