Our People
Farah BaderFounder, CEO
Farah is an early high school graduate from BASIS Scottsdale and was diagnosed with bilateral hearing loss at birth. Currently a bilateral cochlear implant recipient, she aspires to become an audiologist, advocating and being part of the journey for hearing loss children. Volunteering at Phoenix Children’s Hospital and with preschoolers who share her hearing loss, she is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment focusing on ability and not disability.
Jad BaderCo-Founder, President
Jad Bader is currently studying neuroscience at Washington University intending to go to medical school to become an Otolaryngologist. He is currently researching neurosteroids at a clinical neuroscience laboratory research at Washington University's medical campus and is leading the next generation of his scholarship cohort the "Danforth Scholars" as their seminar leader.
Eduard TanaseCTO, Web Developer
Eduard Tanase is a computer engineering student at Purdue University. He is the Machine Learning lead of Purdue IEEE's Systems, Man, and Cybernetics Society and is currently performing research in the field of Computational Neuroscience. He intends to pursue a master's degree in computer science after completing his undergraduate studies.
Elena KaufmanSocial Media Marketing Manager
Elena Kaufman is an undergraduate student at Washington University in St. Louis, studying Psychological & Brain Sciences, with plans to pursue her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. Growing up with a mother with unilateral hearing loss, Elena became dedicated to fostering the change her mother hoped to see by aiding in efforts towards awareness and advocacy. Her active engagement in the Students’ Association of Speech & Hearing Sciences involves community projects that aim to destigmatize hearing loss and promote inclusivity, ultimately aiming to bridge the gap between access and accessibility.
Board Members
Barbara BaderIncorporator, Registered Agent
Barbara Bader is a New Jersey native, wife, mother of three, healthcare professional, advocacy enthusiast, and endless source of support. She finds immense value in families sharing their stories and highlighting each member's vital role.
Jocelin Olivier Vice President
Jocelin Olivier, cofounder and president of LINKS, embodies the roles of a devoted spouse and mother to three teenagers and three dogs. While also managing her philanthropic endeavors, she is deeply committed to serving the greater good through all avenues. Her unwavering dedication is focused on facilitating access to education and advocating for every child to overcome obstacles and embrace learning opportunities.
Shirley ChavollaSecretary
Shirley Chavolla has a 24-year career in Information Technology, and is currently a Business Systems Analyst. Her nonprofit experience includes four and a half years as a CRM and Data Manager and almost three years volunteering as a CRM Administrator. With a BS in Computer Information Systems, she chooses to channel her skills into nonprofits, striving to improve the well-being of women and children in challenging circumstances.
Jacqueline Safont J.D.Treasurer
Jacqueline Safont is an advocate for inclusivity and empowerment and brings a wealth of experience and passion with over twenty years of experience working in accessibility in an education setting. Her work with high school and college students, faculty, and staff within her community demonstrates her commitment to fostering positive change for individuals with disabilities. Her legal background has enabled her to educate students and their parents on their rights and responsibilities under current federal laws.