Meet the ECAC Staff – Mandy Sonnenberg

What brought you to ECAC and tell us about your current role?

What brought me to ECAC is the opportunity to serve others. As a mother of two children with disabilities and a background in special education, I felt called to share my knowledge and experience with others. I began my journey with ECAC as the Military Outreach Parent Educator. Though I still serve our North Carolina military families my role has shifted to Assistant PTI Manager.

Why do you love being a part of ECAC?

Why I love being a part of the ECAC team is working with a group of passionate individuals who truly enjoy serving others.

What is the most memorable event you have attended with ECAC?

The most memorable event I have had with ECAC is the Youth Advisory Team panel at Eastern Carolina University last summer. The power of self-advocacy in the room was breathtaking.

What keeps you motivated and inspired?

What keeps me motivated and inspired is watching parents utilize the tools and information provided to them. It is very refreshing to see families actively participating in meetings and using their voices at the table. When all parties have the opportunity to participate the child truly wins.

What is one piece of advice you would like to give to the parents you work with?

Educate and empower your child to be their "best" and live "interdependent" lives.

Tell us more about your life outside of ECAC.

My life outside of ECAC consists of tending to our horse ranch. And when we aren't at home we are hauling down 95 to the next rodeo!