Dr. Marlene Sotelo, BCBA-D, MT-BC, is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in working with individuals of all ages who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disorders. As the Executive Director of Els for Autism ®, Dr. Sotelo plays a pivotal role in leading and managing the organization’s comprehensive programs and initiatives, in addition to overseeing fundraising and development efforts along with oversight of operations at The Els Center of Excellence ®. Under her guidance, Els for Autism has flourished as a globally recognized institution, providing cutting-edge research, innovative educational programs, and transformative services for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Dr. Sotelo’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in forging strategic partnerships with renowned institutions, fostering collaboration, and creating synergistic opportunities in the autism field. She actively engages with leading experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to advocate for improved access to high-quality resources and services for individuals with autism.

Before joining the Els for Autism Foundation in 2014, Marlene served as the Director of Education and Training at the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities for 12 years. She holds a Doctorate in Special Education from Nova Southeastern University, where she also served as an adjunct faculty member. Marlene is an experienced special education teacher, a board-certified music therapist, and a doctoral-level board-certified behavior analyst.

In addition to her role as Executive Director, Marlene is actively involved in various organizations and projects within the autism community. She is a member of the Non-Profit Chamber of Palm Beach and the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. Marlene serves on the board of directors for The Learning Academy (ages 14-21) at The Els Center of Excellence campus in Jupiter, Florida, and acts as a liaison between the charter school and the Foundation. She is an honored listee in the Marquis Who’s Who 2023.

Throughout her career, Dr. Sotelo has authored numerous research publications, contributed to prominent conferences, and presented her work internationally, further enriching the scientific understanding of ASD. Her expertise in evidence-based interventions, early intervention strategies, and the implementation of best practices has positively impacted countless lives.

Marlene’s commitment to global outreach and her expertise as an international consultant and speaker led to the Global Outreach Autism Learning Services (GOALS) program at Els for Autism, providing services to families and professionals in over 20 countries. She plays a pivotal role in providing operational and programmatic support to the Ernie Els Centre for Autism South Africa, provides support to the Els for Autism Canada and Els for Autism UK Foundations, as well as supporting all programs and services offered at The Els Center of Excellence campus in Jupiter, Florida.

As a music therapist and professional singer, Marlene spearheaded the development of the ‘Reach and Teach through the Arts’ program at Els for Autism, which promotes the use of arts in connecting and educating individuals with ASD and other developmental disorders. Marlene’s passion for philanthropy is highlighted through her songwriting and recordings, raising funds for children’s charities, and supporting musicians with ASD. Her contributions to the field of autism spectrum disorder are showcased through various published research studies in peer-reviewed journals, articles of interest in the field of autism and music therapy, and book publication projects such as her involvement in Autism Without Mask, published in Brazil.

Driven by a deep-rooted belief in the potential and unique abilities of individuals with autism, Dr. Marlene Sotelo continues to dedicate her expertise, compassion, and leadership to advance Els for Autism’s mission of fostering lifelong opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum and promoting acceptance and inclusion in society.

Financial: employed as ED at Els Foundation, conference registration paid. Non-Financial- book publications