KEYNOTE - Amanda DeLuca, Advoate, Author, Co-Founder and President of The More Than Project

Amanda is a dedicated advocate, nonprofit leader, speaker, and entrepreneur committed to supporting families of children with disabilities. Based in Ohio with her husband, Sal, and their two children, Monroe and Jackson, Amanda’s journey into advocacy was inspired by her son’s autism diagnosis. As an IEP Coach, she works with families both locally and remotely, empowering them to approach the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process with confidence and collaboration.

A sought-after speaker, Amanda has traveled nationally to educate and inspire audiences on parent rights in special education, finding hope in unexpected journeys, and making room for faith in times of challenge.

Amanda is the co-founder and president of The More Than Project, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting special needs caregivers and providing respite retreats that foster in-person connection. The organization’s mission is to remove barriers and create ripples of positive change for families caring for individuals with disabilities.

In November 2024, Amanda and Sal launched Pathways for Inclusion: A DeLuca Family Initiative, a future resource center for families raising children with disabilities. Pathways will provide job coaching, sibling support groups, social skills clubs, parent training, and more

For over 13 years, Amanda has been a small business owner, is an accomplished writer, known for her blog, Jackson’s Journey, Jackson’s Voice, and most recently, she became a best-selling author with Dear Mama, Nothing is Impossible, a devotional curated for special needs caregivers. Through advocacy, faith, community service, and personal experience, Amanda continues to champion inclusion, support families, and create lasting impact.

Megan Lantis M.S. Ed, Western Region Coordinator, NE ASD Network

With over 20 years of experience, Megan supports individuals with autism and complex needs across school and community settings. She is passionate about building future-focused awareness to help neurodiverse individuals achieve greater independence in adulthood. Megan promotes collaboration and creative problem-solving to support a seamless transition to life after high school.

Dr. Heather Calkins, Licensed Psychologist

Dr. Heather’s journey in psychology has been profoundly influenced by her dedication to empowering individuals and families. She has tirelessly worked to create a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone who seeks her guidance. Drawing from her 5 years of experience, she has found her calling in assisting youth with significant support needs, particularly those grappling with behavioral challenges. Dr. Heather's commitment extends beyond the confines of her office as she collaborates with parents and caregivers, striving to equip them with the tools to effectively support youth in all facets of their lives.

Her expertise encompasses a wide spectrum of conditions, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, anxiety, depression, as well as addressing issues such as aggressive behaviors, family and peer conflicts, and trauma. Dr. Heather's unwavering dedication to her clients' well-being and her collaborative approach reflect her profound passion for positive change in the lives of those she serves.

Amy Slama, Transition Specialist Educational Service Unit 7

With over 30 years of experience in special education. Amy brings unmatched energy and expertise to helping schools create meaningful, attainable transition plans for students with disabilities ages 13 and up. A proud graduate of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with a degree in speech-language pathology and a transition specialist endorsement, Amy is passionate about empowering educators, families, and students to build futures filled with purpose and possibility. Her work is rooted in collaboration, real-world outcomes, and a deep belief in every student’s potential to succeed beyond the classroom.