The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the world’s leading training and certification provider for autism and cognitive disorders, announced today the appointment of award-winning disability advocate Kerry Magro to their executive panel of board members.

“IBCCES does incredible work around the world,” said Magro. “It’s wonderful now to be part of this team as a board member.”

As a self-advocate, Magro was completely non-verbal until the age of two and a half and was diagnosed with autism at 4-years-old. He is now a best-selling author of three books, a movie consultant of two autism films and a non-profit founder that has given over 45 scholarships for students with autism for college. Magro additionally presented at the International Symposium on Cognitive Disorders in February and is expected to speak at the 2018 event held at the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Florida.

“Working with the great team at IBCCES, I can use my expertise and knowledge to help make the world a more accommodating place for everyone,” said Magro. “Inclusion is key in our society today.”

IBCCES focuses on cognitive disorder training and certification around the world, with members now in 42 countries and expanding. IBCCES just launched AutismTravel.com, of which Magro will be a regular guest contributor in order to bring greater knowledge and options for families traveling with autism. IBCCES additionally trains and certifies school districts, healthcare professionals and law enforcement worldwide.

“Kerry’s expertise in autism and enthusiasm for creating positive change is aligned with our goal to increase awareness and education in cognitive disorders throughout the world, and we are excited to have him on our team,” said IBCCES Board Chairman Myron Pincomb.

Magro added that he is looking forward to collaborative opportunities with IBCCES. “We have the opportunity to impact the lives of so many,” he explained. “There are exciting times ahead.”

Magro currently travels around the country as a motivational speaker and disability advocate, including presenting at two TEDx Talks.In 2014, he received accreditation from the National Speakers Association as one of the only professionally certified speakers with autism in the country. Magro is now the host of a local cable program that focuses on individuals who overcome adversity called the “Different is Beautiful Show,” and has begun interviewing individuals for a new video series that highlights people with special needs, disease and those who have overcome obstacles in their lives called “A Special Community of Love and Acceptance.” Magro has additionally worked with brands including CBS News, Inside Edition, Upworthy, BBC News, HuffPost Live, HuffPost, American Express, J.P Morgan Chase, NBA.com and more.

“It’s been a dream to travel the world as a professional speaker, but the greatest achievement is being able to mentor and work with people with special needs,” said Magro. “I didn’t have any role models with autism growing up, so being able to help the next generation of kids is what I love.”