Who We Are

Beth Pellowitz, co-founder

Bachelors degree in special education from The George Washington University 1987, Peace Corps Volunteer special education teacher Morocco 1988-1990, masters degree in early childhood special education from The George Washington University 1991. 19 years experience as a special education teacher, Harry Burke exceptional teacher of the year award 2008, Special Olympics track coach (2 years), active lifetime participant in Special Olympics, Adapted swimming teacher, Challenger Soccer Coach for children with special needs (13 years), advocate, presentation on various topics in the field of special education.

Jill Koncaba Adams, co-founder

Bachelors degree in Psychology 1994 Texas State University, Masters degree in Education with an emphasis in school counseling 2000. The George Washington University. Worked for the National Brain Injury Association, Epilepsy Association of Houston/Gulf Coast, and as a school counselor. Parent of a child with the disability of autism.

Allison Ferko, Board of Directors

Ms. Ferko is Chevy Chase Trust's legal counsel, responsible for all regulatory and legal matters. She has 10 years of experience in the Trust and investment fields. Ms. Ferko is a graduate of Florida State University and Creighton University School of Law. Parent of a child with Autism.

John P. Ferko, Vice-Chairman, Board of Directors

Mr. Ferko has over 15 years of experience in senior strategic, financial and operating roles in law firms, ranging from Controller to Chief Operating Officer.  He is currently with Crowell & Moring LLP, a 500 lawyer DC-based, international law firm.  Mr. Ferko graduated from The Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Accounting, was a practicing Certified Public Accountant (CPA), and has extensive Executive Education from George Washington University and Harvard University Law School in leadership and strategy.

Elizabeth Gaffin, Board of Directors

Ms. Gaffin is presently an attorney for the Department of Homeland Security, most recently specializing in privace and information governance. Her background includes 18 years with the federal government in the area of administrative law. Ms. Gaffin is a graduate of Brooklyn College and Brooklyn Law School. She is a parent of a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Bruce Kogod, President, Board of Directors

Education: Temple Univ. 1968-1970 Emerson College 1970-1971
CEO and Chairman of the board Maurice Electrical supply Co. Inc.: 1971- present
Charitable work:
Board of District of Columbia Arts Center (DCAC) 1995-
President of the Board 1999-2008, Chairman of the Board 2008 -
Bullis School Potomac, Maryland Board of Directors 1997-2007
Chairman of the Board 2000-2007
Emeritus Board Member 2007-
Chair Capital Campaign Steering Committee 2007-