HR Senior Specialist, Best Buy

As an HR Senior Specialist in Learning and Development at Best Buy, Jackie leads discussions on neurodivergence and advocates for incorporating best practices that create inclusive learning experiences for all neurotypes. Diagnosed with AuDHD in August, which runs in her family, Jackie has built systems to manage daily life and prioritizes being open and vulnerable about her neurodivergence when collaborating with others.

Jackie recently conducted an internal seminar where she shared her personal journey, discussed the systems she’s developed, and explained how she advocates for herself in the workplace.

Outside of work, Jackie enjoys spending time with her two cats and horse, the latter of which has been particularly helpful in managing ADHD. She has a deep interest in studying human and animal behavior, especially with horses. In her free time, Jackie can be found reading, playing video games, or traveling.

Chief of Staff, Joshin

Emily Hanson, Chief of Staff at Joshin is a passionate advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace. Diagnosed with ADHD at a young age, she has transformed her neurodivergent journey into a mission to create more inclusive spaces in technology and healthcare.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Development and over five years of experience in the healthcare sector, Emily understands the critical intersection of organizational culture and neurodiversity. Drawing from her professional background and lived experience, Emily offers invaluable insights into neurodivergent perspectives, challenging traditional workplace norms while advocating for the unique strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to any organization.

Coach, Joshin

Kirsten is a seasoned special education teacher with extensive experience in both elementary and middle school settings. She holds a Master of Education and is licensed in Autism Spectrum and Emotional Behavior Disorders. As an educational coach at Joshin, Kirsten offers a wealth of expertise on topics such as accommodations, proactive behavior management, social skills development, sensory issues, and executive functioning strategies.

In addition to her professional background, Kirsten is the mother of three neurodivergent young adults, which gives her a unique, firsthand perspective on the joys and challenges of parenting neurodivergent children. She is eager to share effective strategies for supporting children both at home and in school. As someone with ADHD herself, Kirsten has developed a range of tools for managing the demands of both home and work life.

Kirsten’s dedication to growth and positivity defines her approach, and she is passionate about helping children and adults navigate neurodivergence to reach their full potential. In her free time, she enjoys reading, camping, and spending quality time with her family.

Co-Founder & COO, Joshin

Melanie Fountaine, the co-founder and COO of Joshin, brings a unique perspective shaped by her journey of an adult ADHD diagnosis and her professional experience in education with children, specializing in working with autism. As a member of a multi-generational neurodivergent household and as a mother to a neurodivergent son, Melanie is deeply committed and passionate about advocating for the inclusion of disability and neurodivergence in classrooms and workplaces.