PUPA Center is governed by its foundation board who bring together lived experience, education, research, and professional expertise, all committed to a future where neurodivergent young adults live a life that matters.
Chairman of Advisory Board
Fonda has stood behind PUPA Center since day one. Her commitment to this work runs deep. Growing up with a neurodivergent sister shaped the way she sees the people PUPA serves and strengthened her belief that everyone deserves opportunity, dignity, and a future worth striving for. She is the quiet, steady presence who keeps the foundation close to its purpose through both successes and setbacks.
Vice Chairman of Advisory Board
Currently taking a deeper dive into the disability world, Robert is pursuing a PhD in Special Education & Disability Policy at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he is also a college instructor for disability undergraduate courses. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Theology and Business Administration from Oral Roberts University and a master’s in Organizational Psychology from the University of Oklahoma. He looks forward to leveraging his extensive entrepreneurial experience and academic pursuits for the flourishing of people with disabilities.
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Supervisory Board
Atikah wears many hats — as a sister to an individual with autism, an educator, and a researcher — and each role has shaped her passion for creating more inclusive opportunities for individuals with diverse needs and those who support them. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Special Education from New Mexico State University, along with a graduate certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder, and completed her PhD in Human Development and Family Studies at Michigan State University. Her experiences have reinforced her belief that meaningful change happens when research, education, and lived experience come together to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Executive Board/Executive Director
Joni founded PUPA Center 11 years ago, when it began as a small monthly gathering where parents could support one another. He saw what often happened after neurodivergent young people finished school: support systems disappeared, leaving families wondering what came next. Refusing to accept that reality, he built PUPA into what it is today — a place where neurodivergent young adults develop practical skills, greater independence, and meaningful opportunities for employment.
Executive Treasurer
Uli Talina is a Finance and Tax Consultant based in Bandung, Indonesia. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from Saint Louis University in the Philippines and currently oversees the foundation’s accounting and tax matters. She began her career as an auditor at Ernst & Young (EY) before working as a consultant on a wide range of projects across various industries.
Executive Secretary
With nearly 20 years of experience in education, Lulu is honored to be part of PUPA and support the well-being of the community. As a proud mother of two, she believes in building strong partnerships with families to help every student reach their full potential. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and Management from Oklahoma State University and a master’s degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment from Walden University.
