Staff & Program Leaders « Autism Oklahoma

Staff

Melinda Lauffenburger

Founder and Executive Director

Melinda embarked on this transformative journey in 2002 within the walls of the Edmond Public Library. Throughout her dynamic career, she has engaged in a multitude of fulfilling and adventurous endeavors, and has greatly enjoyed the season of giving back to this cherished charity. She is most proud of the heart behind AutismOklahoma and the collective efforts of the dedicated team and esteemed partners who, together, have played an instrumental role in positively impacting lives and enhancing overall quality of life.

Melinda reflects, “It has been truly amazing to have a front-row seat in seeing the difference that connecting can have on the quality of life for everyone!”

Beyond her professional pursuits, Melinda shares a fulfilling family life with her husband Dean and their two remarkable daughters, Joy and Sarah. Joy serves as the inspiration behind the inception of the organization while Sarah has seamlessly transitioned into the role of Multimedia and Communication Specialist.

Melinda@autismoklahoma.org

Crystal Frost

Director of Community Engagement

Crystal brings over 16 years of dedicated service to the organization. In her role, she spearheads fundraising for the PieceWalk and Drive Fore Autism events, overseeing social media initiatives, and managing logistical aspects of various projects. Crystal finds joy in navigating the unique adventures and occasional shenanigans that her 20-year-old son Spencer, introduces into their lives. She embraces the “Think Differently” motto, believing that each person is wonderfully unique.

Crystal@autismoklahoma.org

Maggie Inzinga-Johnson

Program Director

Maggie’s dedication to the organization stems from her personal journey as a supportive sister to Max, her younger brother, who is on the autism spectrum. Following her graduation from the University of Oklahoma in 2019, she was selected to join Teach for America through AmeriCorps and held the roles of special education teacher and department head, catering to grades 9-12 in Tulsa and Pre-K through 8th in Oklahoma City, for five years. Maggie and her husband, Matt, share their home with Quincy, a spirited cocker spaniel who firmly believes he’s a person. Beyond her professional commitments, Maggie enjoys indulging in her hobbies, which include reading, baking and passionately following OU sports.

Maggie@autismoklahoma.org

Dee Blose

Director of Program Development

Dedicated mother to David, she is passionate about championing the talents of individuals on the autism spectrum. With over 25 years of experience, she has a rich history of collaboration with non-profit organizations focused on assisting children, youth, and families. Currently at the helm of AutismOklahoma Art programming, Dee leads a dynamic and magnificent art team, and witnessing the artistic expression of these artists brings her immense joy and fulfillment.

Dee extends an invitation to all art enthusiasts to join the growing community of AutismOklahoma Art fans and perhaps even become art patrons. She warmly encourages you to attend our upcoming art events, providing an opportunity to meet her and connect with the incredible AutismOklahoma artists.

Dee@autismoklahoma.org

Sarah Lauffenburger

Multimedia and Communications Specialist

Growing up with a sibling on the spectrum, Sarah has been involved with AutismOklahoma at various capacities for her entire life and is passionate about giving back to the community that gave so much to her. Her greatest pleasure is co-leading Invisible Layers Productions, a program of AutismOklahoma that empowers talented filmmakers on the spectrum to collaborate and create videos as a team. Leveraging her Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications Professional Media, she serves as a catalyst for members of the autism community to share their voices through her filmmaking, writing, storytelling, photography, and more. When not in the studio, she cherishes time with her husband, friends, and family as well as her hobbies including video gaming, journaling, and cooking.

Sarah@autismoklahoma.org

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