Gracelyn Ely
Gracelyn is a second-year master's student pursuing her degree in speech-language pathology. She earned her bachelor's degree from The University of Texas at Austin in 2022 and spent two years working as a speech-language pathology assistant in a pediatric clinic before beginning graduate school. As a Project ACCESS scholar, Gracelyn has received specialized training in trauma-informed care and person-centered practices. She has a strong interest in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and a deep passion for supporting families as they discover the power of connection through communication. Gracelyn strives to create collaborative partnerships that ensure every child can express themselves with confidence and authenticity.
Madison Flueckiger
Madison (she/her) is a second-year Master's student at the University of Texas School of Social Work. She graduated from Mount Holyoke College in 2021 with a major in English and a minor in Critical Social Thought. After graduating, Madison worked as a 1:1 paraeducator at an elementary school and then as a job coach for adults with ID/D over the span of 3 years in Western Massachusetts. Madison is passionate about providing effective clinical support to neurodivergent youth and adults and youth and adults with ID/D. She is particularly interested in how evidence-based therapeutic modalities can be adapted to best support youth and adults with ID/D. Madison is thrilled to be a part of Project Access.
Madiha Kark
Madiha is currently a second-year student at the University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts with an emphasis on Cultural Studies from Beaconhouse National University in Pakistan, and a Master's in Journalism from the University of North Texas. She is passionate about the strength in diverse lived experiences, which she sees as the threads that enrich our cultural fabric. She enjoys working with BIPOC communities, where she feels most connected, and believes that people with disabilities have the same right to a full and meaningful life as anyone else. Her work and studies are rooted in an integrative approach to care, grounded in a trauma informed and strengths-based perspective. Madiha hopes to practice and learn about healing and empowerment through culturally responsive practices.
Ximena Zarate
Ximena is a second-year master's student pursuing a degree in Speech Language Pathology. She earned her bachelor's degree from The University of Texas at Austin in 2024. She has had clinical and professional experience in schools, clinics, and hospitals as a graduate student. As a Project ACCESS scholar, Ximena has received training in trauma-informed care and person-centered practices. She has a strong interest in feeding, bilingualism and working with neurodiverse individuals. Ximena enjoys guiding children and caregivers in their communication journey!