Meet Our Board Members
Katie Feeney
President
Katie Feeney is a mom first, always guided by her love for her children especially her daughter Erin, who continues to inspire everything she does. After losing Erin at just three years old, Katie felt a deep need to create something meaningful from that loss. Erin’s Way was born from that love. A way to honor Erin’s life by helping other children feel safe, included, and supported.
As a parent of a child with autism, Katie understands firsthand how overwhelming the world can be, and how much small supports can mean. She has also experienced the weight of grief and the impact it has on an entire family. Through Erin’s Way, she is committed to making sure no family feels alone—offering free resources, sensory supports, and spaces where children can simply be themselves.
For Katie, this work is deeply personal. Every program, every detail, and every moment is done with Erin in mind. Continuing her light, her joy, and her way of seeing the world.
Dennis Feeney
Vice-President
Dennis Feeney is a devoted father whose strength and love for his family are at the heart of Erin’s Way. After the loss of his daughter Erin at just three years old, Dennis helped turn unimaginable grief into purpose. Working alongside his family to create something that would honor her life and help others.
Dennis brings a steady, thoughtful presence to Erin’s Way, always focused on making sure families feel supported, understood, and never alone. As a father, he experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating both autism and loss, and he is deeply committed to creating spaces where children can feel safe, regulated, and included, while also ensuring families have the support they need during difficult moments.
For Dennis, Erin’s Way is about more than programs. It’s about carrying Erin’s spirit forward. Through every effort, he honors her by helping other families find comfort, connection, and a sense of peace in the moments they need it most.
Shannon O'Malley
Secretary
Shannon is a junior at St. Joseph’s University and holds a very special place in Erin’s life as her cousin and godmother. Their bond was filled with love, laughter, and a deep connection that continues to inspire Shannon’s role in Erin’s Way. . This lesson was particularly learned in Shannon’s favorite memory of Erin when they were playing “Cha Cha to Boston” as Erin pulled on Shannon’s hair and erupted into giggles.
Being part of Erin’s life, and her loss, shaped Shannon in a profound way. She brings a compassionate, thoughtful perspective to the foundation, with a strong passion for helping children feel included, supported, and understood. As a young leader, Shannon represents the next generation of advocates, using her voice and experiences to make a meaningful impact.
For Shannon, Erin’s Way is both personal and purposeful. It is a way to honor Erin’s memory while helping other families find comfort, connection, and moments of joy—just as Erin brought to those who loved her.
Laura Mills
Treasurer
Laura is a close family friend and a devoted mother whose unwavering support and compassion have meant so much to the Feeney family, both in everyday life and through their most difficult moments. She has been a constant source of strength, kindness, and comfort, always showing up with an open heart.
Through her connection to Erin and the entire family, Laura developed a deep understanding of the importance of inclusion, patience, and unconditional love. As a mother, she brings an added layer of empathy and care to everything she does. She carries that same dedication into Erin’s Way, helping to create a space where children and families feel welcomed, supported, and truly seen.
For Laura, being part of Erin’s Way is about honoring Erin’s memory while standing beside the families this mission serves—offering kindness, compassion, and support every step of the way.
Brittani Ptasinski
Director of Education
Brittani is a devoted mother and a passionate behavior analyst who has dedicated her life to working with children with autism. Her work is more than a career, It is truly her calling. Every day, she brings patience, understanding, and unwavering compassion to the children and families she supports.
As a close friend of the Feeney family, Brittani’s connection to Erin and her story is deeply personal. She understands both the unique needs of children with autism and the importance of creating environments where they feel safe, accepted, and able to thrive. Her professional knowledge, combined with her genuine love for children, makes her an invaluable part of Erin’s Way.
For Brittani, being involved in Erin’s Way is a natural extension of her life’s purpose, honoring Erin’s memory while continuing to advocate for and support children with autism and their families with care, dignity, and heart
Junior Board Members
The Erin’s Way Junior Board empowers youth voices to guide inclusive, compassionate programs that support children with autism and those experiencing grief. Through lived experience, leadership, and advocacy, members help ensure every child feels seen, understood, and supported
Tommy
Community Awareness Advocate
Tommy is Erins Older brother. Supports spreading awareness about autism, grief, and inclusion. Assists with outreach ideas, events, and ways to educate peers and the community
Sarah
Sibling Support Representative
Sarah is Erin's Older Sister
Provides the perspective of siblings of children with autism and those experiencing loss. Helps ensure siblings feel seen, supported, and included in all Erin’s Way initiatives.
Meghan
Memory & Legacy Ambassador
Meghan is Erin's Older Sister
Focused on preserving cherished memories and honoring every unique journey.
Maggie
Family Connection Liaison
Maggie is Erin's Cousin
Helps strengthen connections between Erin’s Way and families. Shares ideas on how to better support caregivers and create welcoming, understanding environments.
Annabelle
Community Awareness Advocate
Annabelle is a family friend
Supports spreading awareness about autism, grief, and inclusion. Assists with outreach ideas, events, and ways to educate peers and the community
Colton
Sensory & Inclusion Ambassador
Brings valuable personal insight as an individual with autism, helping guide Erin’s Way programs through lived experience. Offers perspective on sensory needs and inclusive environments to ensure activities feel safe, welcoming, and supportive for all children. Helps shape events (such as silent discos and sensory spaces) so they are comfortable and accessible for neurodiverse participants
Coming Soon
Lived Experience Advocate
Brings the perspective of an older child with autism, offering valuable insight into how needs, challenges, and experiences can evolve over time. Shares lived experience to help shape programs that are supportive, respectful, and relevant for older children and teens. Provides thoughtful feedback on activities, environments, and communication to ensure Erin’s Way remains inclusive across all ages.