Three New Members Appointed to the Orange County Regional Center Board

New Board Members at Orange County Regional Center

On March 1, 2025, the Orange County Regional Center (RCOC) welcomed three new members to its board of directors, enhancing the representation and advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities. The board is now comprised of Amy Jessee, Liza Krassner, and Lorena Medina, each bringing unique experiences and perspectives to their volunteer roles.

Amy Jessee - Advocate and Self-Advocate

Amy Jessee, from Santa Ana, is particularly notable as someone with a developmental disability receiving services from RCOC. She has become a prominent self-advocate as part of the Alliance of Abilities/Integrity House, where she focuses on person-centered training and advocacy. Beyond her advocacy work, Amy is involved in fundraising activities for the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, emphasizing her commitment to community engagement. She passionately believes that success is within reach for anyone, regardless of their disabilities.

Liza Krassner - Advocate, Educator, and Community Leader

Liza Krassner, hailing from Irvine, retired after a 35-year career at UC Irvine, where she specialized in research and student affairs. She is also the mother of an adult son with autism, which drives her passion for advocating for individuals with developmental challenges. Krassner serves on various boards and committees, including her past involvement with RCOC. Her extensive experience equips her with a deep understanding of the complexity surrounding state policy changes impacting support for individuals with developmental disabilities. She currently holds leadership roles in local community organizations, including the KJAZZ 88.1 FM Advisory Council and the Committee for Residents with Disabilities in Irvine.

Lorena Medina - Professional with Personal Connection

From Anaheim, Lorena Medina brings 20 years of accounting and financial expertise to the board. With an MBA in finance and accounting, she currently manages ScaleNorth, Inc. Her personal history with her sister, who had an intellectual disability, has shaped her perspective on the importance of inclusivity and empathy. Lorena supported her sister through various experiences, including participation in the Special Olympics, which shows her dedication to uplifting individuals with disabilities.

The Importance of RCOC

The Orange County Regional Center plays a crucial role in coordinating lifelong services and supports for over 27,000 residents with developmental disabilities and their families. These include individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy. As a private nonprofit organization under California's contract, RCOC aims to improve the quality of life for those it serves by enhancing access to resources and advocating for necessary legislative changes.

By appointing board members who possess both personal and professional ties to the disability community, RCOC continues its mission to foster inclusive and supportive environments for all individuals. As these new board members take their positions, they are poised to make significant contributions toward advancing the rights, opportunities, and well-being of individuals with developmental disabilities in Orange County.

For more information about RCOC, visit RCOC's website.