Eric has presented seminars and workshops at local, national and international conferences on a wide array of topics relating to serving those with developmental disabilities. In addition to skills in leadership, board relations/governance, program development, operations and organizational development, Eric has demonstrated experience and expertise in the design and implementation of Quality Management systems as well as public policy initiatives. All of his efforts have been aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities in their struggle for civil and human rights — and their recognition as complete and valued community members.

Eric earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz in Psychology and Literature (1983) as well as a Master of Rehabilitation Administration from the University of San Francisco (1996).

Other experience and awards:

• James Latin Memorial Award (2020 – GGRC Self- Advocacy Conference)

Eric’s passions outside of work include travel, art, more art, literature, walks on Mt. Tam, Scrabble, birds, cats and doggies

Amanda has a long history of working in the developmental disability field, beginning in the late 1980s as a pre-teen volunteer. She taught Special Education in Virginia and California.   She has spent 20+ years in program development, management, and executive management positions within disability services, including: Camp and Recreation, Employment Services, Supported Living Services, Independent Living Services, and Day Services for people moving from California Developmental Centers. She has also consulted within the I/DD service provider community on program development, program needs assessments, quality assurance, and staff training in person-centered practices. 

Amanda earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts with K-12 Special Education certification from Eastern Mennonite University; a Master of Public Administration degree from Notre Dame de Namur University; and a Master of Arts in Diversity Leadership from the University of St. Thomas – Minnesota.

Other experience and awards:

• Commissioner, San Francisco Department of Early Childhood, Children and Families First Commission (2025-present)
• Co-Chair, Association of Regional Center Agencies (ARCA) statewide Deaf Specialist Collective (2022-2025)
• University of Delaware Leadership Institute (2016)
• Board Member, Golden Gate Regional Center Board of Directors (2013-2014, 2016-3/2017)
• Co-Chair, Golden Gate Regional Center Service Provider Advisory Committee (2013-2017)
• James Latin Self-Advocacy Memorial Award (2011) 

“Working at Golden Gate Regional Center has given me the opportunity to be part of advocacy, public policy, and systems change that can contribute to helping the I/DD service system evolve in the direction desired by the people who use the system. I have always believed that it is our responsibility to support people in the way they want to be supported, to create space for and amplify their voice so that people with I/DD can live the life they want and envision for themselves.”

Outside of work and GGRC, Amanda is a self-described foodie and wine “geek” who loves to read and travel.

Throughout her career, Brenda has focused on early childhood mental health, complex case management, leadership, healthcare policy, and advocacy for behavioral health services. Her dedication lies in helping the communities that need maximum support access services. Her time at managed healthcare provided her with invaluable experience in managing and coordinating care for individuals with complex behavioral and physical health needs. She led teams related to clinical service, case management, and ABA services.

“My role at GGRC allows me to work to improve service system silos while promoting Early Childhood mental health and Early Intervention services. I am committed to increasing effective case management services for individuals with special needs. I appreciate GGRC’s mission, collaboration with the community partners, advocacy for the I/DD population, and the opportunity to be of service to our community.”

Ihsan began his career at GGRC as a Human Resources intern and later served as Senior HR Generalist. He left GGRC for a couple years to take the HR Manager role at Valor Compounding Pharmacy before returning to GGRC as Director in 2022.

Ihsan holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Golden Gate University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Kardan University.

Other experience and awards:

• SHRM Certified Professional
• Fullbright scholarship

“I appreciate GGRC because of its mission to support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Being part of an organization that makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives aligns with my values and professional goals, and it gives purpose to the work I do every day. The best aspects of my role are leading HR and organizational initiatives that strengthen our workforce and having the opportunity to support and develop our staff. I value the collaborative, supportive culture at GGRC and the chance to work with a team committed to person-centered services and continuous improvement.”

Outside of work, Ihsan enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and exploring nature with family and friends. He also likes playing tap ball cricket, traveling, and trying new adventures like scuba diving – these activities help him recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Elisabeth graduated from high school in 1990 and took classes for a year at City College of San Francisco.

Other experience and awards:

• State Council on Developmental Disabilities Advocacy Award
• San Francisco Mayor’s Office on Disability Advocacy Award
• Cal-TASH Extraordinary Advocate Award
• Partners in Policymaking Leadership Training
• Board Member, Golden Gate Regional Center

“I’m an advocate at GGRC because I believe that everyone with a disability has a right to live and thrive in their own community among their peers without disabilities. We are no different than people without disabilities – we want the same things as everyone else. We want to be in a relationship, we want to have a job, we want to be able to choose where we live, and whom we live. I think just because we have a disability people think we can’t make decisions for ourselves. That is a crazy stereotype! That is why I do the work that I do. Because I want people to know that as long as I am here, I am going to fight for their rights to be able to live how they choose.”

In her free time, Elizabeth likes to write poetry, make people laugh and spends her time assisting people in finding their voices. She also likes exploring new places to see how accessible they are and enjoys going off-roading in her wheelchair. Additionally, she likes to challenge people’s views about disabilities as a motivational speaker.

Before joining GGRC, Aria previously held roles as Corporate Services Assistant with the British Embassy (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) and Human Resources Officer with CARE International, with a wide range of responsibilities including budget forecasting, procurement, recruitment, HR administration, financial tracking, translation services, and stakeholder liaison services.

Aria is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree and previously earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Management Concentration from San Francisco State University and an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Kardan University 

Other experience and awards:

• Beta Gamma Sigma – International Business Honor Society Member

“The best things about my role at GGRC are the opportunities for visibility and insight into the organization, having a high level of responsibility, interacting with the Board of Directors and leaders throughout GGRC, and utilizing those opportunities to be a stabilizing force in my role. I see my mission as contributing meaningfully to GGRC’s goals, supporting initiatives that promote equity and opportunity while ensuring operational efficiency.”

Outside of work and GGRC Aria enjoys gardening, traveling and gaining cultural experiences. She has broad interest in personal growth and enjoys skill building activities, reading and workshops, in addition to promoting wellness and mindfulness.