Meet the esteemed team at Long Island Advocacy Center Inc., a dedicated group committed to protecting the rights of students and individuals with disabilities. Each member brings a wealth of experience and a personal commitment to advocacy and legal support.
Our directors work tirelessly to guide LIAC’s strategic direction, ensuring that our services align with our mission to empower and protect the community we serve.
The Board consists of professionals from diverse backgrounds, including legal, educational, and financial sectors, all united by their passion for social justice. Their leadership is instrumental in shaping the policies and initiatives that LIAC undertakes.
Under their governance, LIAC continues to be a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals across Long Island, advocating for necessary changes and providing essential services.
Board of Directors
Susan Burger
President
Thomas Blennau, Esq.
Trustee
Glenda Jackson
Trustee
Catherine Breidenbach, Esq.
Secretary
Tahmeed Kalam
Treasurer
Our Staff
Jen Schwartz
Executive Director
Mindy Turansky
Assistant Director
Victoria Vine, Esq.
Director of Legal Services
Finance
Michelle Montenora, CPA
Financial Director
Alyssa Franco
Staff Accountant
Legal Department
Diane Collins, Esq.
Legal
Diane Inbody, Esq.
Legal
Liane Wolff, Esq.
Legal
Michael Alperin, Esq.
Legal
Jian Chen, Esq.
Legal
(Speaks Mandarin)
Nassau County
Jeanne McElwain
Intake Coordinator/Education Advocate
Carolina Trigo
Education Advocate
(Habla español)
Sylvia Caban
Education Advocate
(Habla español)
Donna Hemphill
Education Advocate
Yahaira Rivera-Gamez
Education Advocate
(Habla español)
Suffolk County
Anita Durney
Intake Coordinator/Education Advocate
Shannen McCabe
Intake Coordinator/Education Advocate
(Habla español)
Steven Broschart
Education Advocate
jenna colletti
Education Advocate
Selva Herrera
Education Advocate
(Habla español)
Kelly Oroza
Education Advocate
Tanika Steele
Education Advocate
Anita Saltzman
Education Advocate
Jessica payes
Education Advocate
(Habla español)
Nassau & Suffolk County
NY Region 1 Collaborative PTIC
Helene Fallon
Project Co-Director
Zoe Costanza
Project Co-Director
Family Support Programs
Anita Durney
Family Support Access Coordinator
Shannen McCabe
Family Support Access Coordinator
Stefanny Droz
Benefits Advisement Specialist
