About Us
It Takes a Village
#cuanvillage
Our Mission
To support persons on the autism spectrum, their families, caregivers, educators, other professionals and the public by providing opportunities for support and networking, education, training, and advocacy, along with promoting awareness and acceptance
Our hope is that empowered individuals on the autism spectrum, families, educators, and professionals will be connected to the resources and support they need to create a positive and healthy environment to best allow the individual on the autism spectrum to grow and develop to their full potential as a participating member of their society
Our Vision
Meet The Team
Julie Duvall
Executive Director
Julie Duvall is the President of the Champaign Urbana Autism Network in Urbana, IL. She is a mother of seven children; this includes both an adult and adolescent child who are on the spectrum. She has eleven grandchildren, four of which are also diagnosed with Autism/Intellectual Disabilities. Julie has 28 years of experience in the disability world with an excellent knowledge of state and federal disability laws, including ADA guidelines, policies, and practices. She is strategically minded with the talent to think outside the box to problem solve and provide crisis intervention. She has worked with several state, county, and local governments as well as private agencies to set precedence in policies., procedures, and services for the disability community. Julie is straightforward, poignant, and willing to do what it takes to achieve the end goal. Her specialties are giving a voice to issues, concerns, and advocating for those who need support.
Jill Graves
Event Planning/Coordinator
I am Jill Graves and I am excited to be apart of the CU Autism Network. I am married to Brandon and a mom to four kids, 1 on the autism spectrum. I can’t wait to meet you all at events and to help in any way I can.
Alyssa Mize
Executive Assistant
My name is Alyssa. I am 29 years old and a mother of two boys (four year old with autism and a two month old). My husband and I are high school sweet hearts and have been married for five years. My brother has autism as well, so autism is close to my heart and a big part of my life. I am an x-ray technologist and enjoy sewing/embroidering, and playing hockey on the women's league in Decatur. I joined CUAN to make a difference, spread awareness, and encourage acceptance in and for the autistic community.
Rich Bolser
Board President
Father of 2 boys. "Jack's dad." Proud supporter of the Special Olympics. VAP graduate 2019. LEND graduate 2020. Volunteer advocate for early intervention and transition to adulthood. 2023 CUAN Board Member.
Tayler Blair
Treasurer
Tayler is a mom of three children, who has years of experience working with individuals on the Spectrum both personally and professionally. She started at head start and now works at Urbana Schools as a trained support for disability students. Her patience and ability to support these individuals is inspiring.
Karissa Northway
Secretary
Karissa Northway has been involved with CUAN by attending events and volunteering for four years. She has a daughter, who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of 5. Karissa is dedicated to providing awareness and acceptance for those on the spectrum.