Meet the People Behind Our Mission
Our unique team consists of people with autism, educators, parents, college interns, and community members working together for a common purpose: to enrich the lives of adults with autism.
If you live in the Centre Region and share this passion, we're always looking for caring, committed individuals to join our board! Please contact us for more details.
Board Members & Staff
Bellamarie Bregar
Founder/Executive Director
With 38 years of experience as a special education teacher, Bellamarie Bregar is driven to make ACRES a place where adults with autism can live and thrive. She has a strong passion for autistic individuals and strives to bring peace of mind to many parents who hope for their children's future.
Adam Fernsler
President
Adam Fernsler has over 15 years of experience in the architectural and construction industry. Adam has a multi faceted background that includes design and management on many different building and construction projects including health care, multi-family housing, municipal and educational projects.
Derek Canova
Vice President
Bio Coming Soon!
Len Kowalski
Treasurer
Bio Coming Soon!
Bellamarie Ludwig
Board Member
Bellamarie Ludwig joined The ACRES Project team upon its founding in 2014. She currently works as an Assistant Research Professor at the Pennsylvania State University and serves as the acting secretary. She is also lucky enough to be the daughter of the ACRES project founder, Bella Bregar.
Anne Peno
Board Member
Bio Coming Soon!
Kya Gresh
Operation Manager & Certified ACRES Support Leader
Bio Coming Soon!
Rosemary Schwegel
Greenhouse Production Manager
Rosemary is a professional greenhouse manager with degrees in horticulture and plant pathology and experience within Penn State’s research programs. She is passionate about promoting and supporting diversity, and is dedicated to providing a greenhouse environment which is both professional and welcoming.
Olivia Villandre
Job Coach
Bio Coming Soon!
Krystyn Fajardo
Job Coach & Certified ACRES Support Leader
Bio Coming Soon!
Kylie Ehrensberger
Job Coach
Bio Coming Soon!
Kenaniah Stickles
Embroidery Production
Bio Coming Soon!
Mariah Peno
Production & Sales
Bio Coming Soon!
Jake Rosenberger
Greenhouse Operations
Bio Coming Soon!
Christian Stitzer
Maintenance
Bio Coming Soon!