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Michigan Appoints Autism Coordinator

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 6, 2013

LANSING - The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is pleased to announce that, effective Feb. 4, 2013, Lisa Grost has been appointed as the Autism Coordinator for the state of Michigan, within the MDCH Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Administration.

Grost has extensive experience in coordinating and maintaining strong relationships with key and diverse health policy and system partners, including state agencies, universities, non-profit and private organizations. Her experience includes co-founding the Mid-Michigan Autism Association and serving as the Association president; founding the MDCH Healthy Communities Program; and co-developing the Healthy Kids, Healthy Michigan Childhood Obesity Policy Coalition.

"Lisa's diverse background in public policy and overall leadership experience among state and local partners made her an ideal candidate for Michigan's Autism Coordinator," said James K. Haveman, Director of the MDCH. "As we embark on this very important initiative, Ms. Grost will lead the efforts and implementation of the Autism benefit, while also working in collaboration with the Michigan Autism Council to provide a solid foundation and resource for the families in Michigan."

Grost will be working closely with the Michigan Autism Council to develop and implement a statewide strategic plan. In addition, she will handle the implementation of the Michigan Medicaid Autism Benefit, and be the liaison with external stakeholders, including the Michigan Departments of Education and Human Services, families, the Autism Alliance and universities.

Grost possesses more than 20 years of extensive leadership experience in program planning, development, implementation and evaluations methods for public health policy and health care service organizations. She has experience working with national organizations and researchers to review evidence-based practices involving both national and local health initiatives. She resides with her family in DeWitt, Mich.

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