Jennifer Berzok, an attorney, political strategist, and public policy advocate, brings a unique perspective to her work in health care and disability policy. As the mother of a twenty-year-old son with autism, her personal experiences have shaped her professional journey. Jennifer’s career includes roles as a legislative assistant on Capitol Hill and as the Director of Government Relations for the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO).
Since her son was diagnosed with autism at age 2, Jennifer has become deeply involved in the disability community. She served as Chair of the Parent Advisory Group to the Maryland Association of Nonpublic Special Education Facilities, where she advised leaders of more than 70 schools serving 3,000 across Maryland on strategies to serve individuals with disabilities and their families more effectively.
Jennifer chaired the Board of Directors of the Ivymount Corporation, which for 55 years has created nationally recognized programs and partnerships for people with autism and special needs. She was also a member of the Task Force for Main Street, an inclusive, community-centered residential development, the first of its kind in the Washington Metropolitan area, where 25% of the apartments are designated for adults with disabilities.
Throughout her various roles, Jennifer has demonstrated a collaborative approach to her advocacy work. She has worked closely with lawmakers, educators, entrepreneurs, businesses, and individuals with lived experience to ensure the meaningful inclusion of neurodiverse individuals in all aspects of the community.
As her son enters the world of adult services, Jennifer has shifted her focus to the employment sector, where companies and organizations are beginning to recognize the benefits of including neurodiverse employees in the workplace.
Jennifer graduated from Georgetown University’s Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) program in June 2023. LEND is an interdisciplinary training program focused on strengthening local services and support for people with disabilities and their families across the lifespan.