Our Organization

Our Philosophy & Values

We are dedicated to helping every individual we serve achieve the highest level of personal independence possible.

With a staff of 500 professionals and expertise in autism and social/emotional development, The Summit Center is Western New York’s leading provider of evidence-based educational, behavioral health, adult, and community programs to more than 1,000 children and adults each year with developmental, social and behavioral challenges.

 

Methodology throughout our programs is based upon the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, which has been identified by hundreds of scientific studies as the most effective method to teach individuals with autism and other special needs. We are dedicated to helping every individual we serve achieve the highest level of personal independence possible.

Optimism

We expect the best of our efforts and ourselves.

Respect

We treat each other as we wish to be treated – with honesty and empathy.

Accountability

We are committed to excellence and to demonstrating improved outcomes for those we serve.

Integrity

We act ethically and responsibly in all our endeavors.

Collaboration

We achieve results through the cooperative efforts of our team, families, volunteers and other stakeholders.

Adaptability

We seek opportunities to innovate and respond appropriately and flexibly to change.

Our Vision

Lives made better!

Our Mission

Guided by evidence-based practice, we maximize life success for people facing developmental, social and behavioral challenges.

Summit’s Informed Choice

We support adults with intellectual disabilities to make choices about things that are important to them, including housing, friends, work, health, recreation and leisure.

Our Staff

Lisa A. Foti, CPA

Chief Executive Officer

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Amy Jablonski, Psy.D.

President

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Dana Zakes

Chief Financial Officer

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Diana Schmit, M.S.

Vice President – Community & Adult Services

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Mary Bennett, M.S.

Summit Academy Principal

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Wendy Loverme, M.S.

Director of Community Services

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Melissa Kimmel, M.S.

Director of Community Services

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David Meichenbaum, Ph.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

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Sue Keenan

Director of Human Resources

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Kara Lee, M.S., CFRE

Director of Development

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Together we can fulfill the promise of a more typical life for each and every child, including those of your family, friends and neighbors who live with developmental disabilities like autism.

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