Our Organization

Our Philosophy & Values

The Summit Center is Western New York’s leading provider of evidence-based programs for individuals with developmental, social, and behavioral challenges.

For more than 50 years, we’ve given people the tools to achieve their fullest potential.

 

Our expertise lies in understanding and supporting children and adults with autism spectrum disorder. Methodology throughout our programs is grounded in applied behavior analysis (ABA), an evidence-based therapy which incorporates the science of learning and behavior. ABA therapy has been identified by hundreds of research studies as the most effective method to teach individuals with autism and other special needs.

 

Compassion is the cornerstone of our services. That means building strong relationships with the individuals we support and staying attuned to their needs. Through our compassionate approach, we thoughtfully teach skills that lead to greater independence, community inclusion, and quality of life. We collaborate with individuals, families, caregivers, school districts, and other stakeholders to ensure our support is rooted in empathy and understanding.

 

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., BCBA-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 Superintendent

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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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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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