English: The Autism Society of America, the nation’s largest and oldest grassroots autism organization, announced Christopher Banks as the new President and CEO. Following the retirement announcement last Spring, from current President and CEO, Scott Badesch, the organization’s Board of Directors unanimously approved Chris’ hiring, effective January 2020.

“We are thrilled to have Chris join our team as a strong leader and advocate as he advances the Autism Society’s impact into the next decade,” says Autism Society of America’s Chairman of the Board, Joe Joyce. “Chris has extensive experience with not-for-profit organizations, including human service organizations, health care systems and academic institutions, where he’s demonstrated proven success in fundraising, strategic planning, and operational leadership.”

Banks has a comprehensive background in human services and the healthcare arena, where he’s had a successful record of increasing fundraising efforts, measurably improving revenue strategies, and being a transformational leader committed to diversity and cultural growth. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Development and Community Engagement at Charles E. Smith Life Communities in Rockville, Maryland; here, he provided leadership in the development, implementation and evaluation of all philanthropic and community engagement efforts. His daily work supported the organization’s impact strategy, and aimed to accelerate growth while building strong community partners.

“I am extremely grateful to the Board of Directors for the confidence and trust they have placed in me to be the next President and CEO of the Autism Society of America,” states Chris Banks. “I look forward to leading this impactful organization into it’s next phase of growth, and to collaborate with our passionate affiliates, partners, supporters, and most importantly, the autism community to measurably improve the quality of life for all affected by autism.”

Previously, Chris Banks served in a variety of leadership roles at Bon Secours Charity Health System in Suffern, New York, along with Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center. At both organizations, Chris established long-lasting relationships with external partners, philanthropic organizations and elected officials to further policy efforts and fundraising activities. He ensured that strategic efforts supported the brand’s mission and values, and was committed to cross-functional leadership across large teams.

Chris has an MBA in Finance from Manhattan College, and his MS and BA degrees from University of Scranton.