Laura G. Buckner, a Licensed Professional Counselor and former special educator, Laura is a frequent keynote presenter and trainer speaking on the state and national levels to a wide variety of audiences, including service professionals, educators, state agency staff, advocacy groups, and families of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).  Laura’s areas of expertise include person centered practices, leadership and advocacy, trauma informed care, and supporting families and individuals with IDD to live lives they find meaningful with access to necessary supports and services.  Prior to her employment with the TCDS, Laura served 8 years as the Program Coordinator of the Texas Partners in Policymaking program. At the TCDS, Laura is a Founding Partner of The Institute for Person Centered Practices (www.person-centered-practices.org) and a Mentor Trainer with The Learning Community for Person Centered Practices (TLCPCP) (www.learningcommunity.us).  Laura serves on the TLCPCP Board of Directors.  In her spare time, Laura is an avid distance cyclist, lover of dogs, and devoted wife to Ron and Mom to sons Michael and David.