BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Council of Autism Service Providers (CASP), which represents more than 100 autism service organizations that serve over 50,000 individuals with ASD and over $1 billion annual service dollars, announced today that it has hired Mike Wasmer as its Vice President of Government Affairs and Special Projects.
Wasmer comes to CASP from Autism Speaks where he served for 8 years as Director of State Government Affairs. Wasmer helped lead the passage of autism insurance reform laws across the country, leading to meaningful ABA coverage in all 50 states. A frequent speaker on autism advocacy and policy, Wasmer has also successfully advocated for the addition of ABA benefits in many self-funded health plans.
Prior to his career in autism advocacy, Wasmer, a veterinarian, was a partner in a veterinary emergency and specialty referral practice in Kansas City. He says he was drawn to CASP in part because of the organization's commitment to science. “As an autism parent, I greatly respect CASP’s commitment to evidence-based care,” said Wasmer. “I look forward to collaborating with CASP member organizations to develop and implement a public policy agenda that promotes greater access to quality autism services.”
The CASP Board of Directors expressed enthusiasm about adding Wasmer to its professional staff. “It’s rare to find someone with the unique set of skills and experiences to be prepared for our work at CASP, and Mike fits the bill,” said Steve Muller, CASP’s Board President. “With several key initiatives in the works, we look forward to seeing where we can go with Mike on board.”
CASP’s mission of supporting its members through cultivating, sharing and advocating for provider best practices in autism services is being accomplished through several key initiatives including an annual conference, leadership development workshops, webinars, and the establishment of The CASP Organizational Guidelines and Standards. Wasmer will work alongside CEO Lorri Unumb to continue to further CASP’s mission and expand its influence.
For more information about CASP, please visit: www.casproviders.org.
