Anderson Center for Autism names New Paltz alumnus as new CEO

The Anderson Center for Autism Board of Trustees recently named SUNY New Paltz alumnus Patrick Paul ’94 (Accounting) as the agency’s new executive director and CEO.

“I am honored that the Board of Anderson Center has entrusted me with the privilege of leading this great organization,” said Paul, who delivered his inaugural address to the Hudson Valley community on the Anderson Center for Autism Campus in Staatsburg Jan. 28.

Paul, a New Paltz resident, brings a diverse and prosperous background to the post. He previously worked in banking, investment management, public accounting, for the IRS and the New York State Police. While at the Center he has held the positions of corporate controller, corporate compliance officer, chief financial officer and chief operating officer.

The mission at Anderson Center for Autism is to optimize quality of life for people with autism, which the Centers for Disease Control reported in 2014 affects 1 in 68 children. The disorder impacts speech, fine and gross motor skills, socialization, processing and more. In his community address, Paul discussed how the Center would continue to position itself to tackle the needs of the individuals and families touched by Autism Spectrum Disorder.

“As we continue to grow and expand, we honor our role as an integral part of service delivery to individuals with autism, and will work to empower all we serve with the tools and resources to live productive, meaningful lives,” said Paul. “It is a great honor and privilege to serve in this leadership role and I take our work extremely seriously.”

Apart from Anderson Center for Autism, Paul has served both as a board member and an active committee member of RUPCO (a nonprofit committed to providing sustainable housing and community development in Kingston, N.Y.), Mohonk Preserve, and Tongore Pines Development Corporation. In addition to his New Paltz education, he received a bachelor’s degree in community and human services with a concentration in criminal justice from SUNY Empire State College.