Ricardo Bentin is a graduate of the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a degree in finance. He is an Austin ISD parent and disability advocate whose involvement in the autism community began after his son was diagnosed as autistic in 2018. His family’s experiences navigating early intervention, special education, and community-based supports inspired him to become more deeply involved in improving systems for children with disabilities and their families.
Within his school community, Ricardo has worked alongside families, educators, and his local elementary school’s PTA to expand inclusion for students with disabilities. He also serves on Austin ISD’s Special Education Family Advisory Committee, where he has focused on strengthening family engagement and improving access to technology tools that help the district and support teams communicate more effectively with families.
Through ACT LEND, Ricardo hopes to deepen his understanding of disability policy, systems, and leadership while becoming a stronger advocate for families throughout Austin and beyond.