Our People
Kathy Niager, Ph. D.
Executive Director
Dr. Niager is the owner and Executive Director of Trellis. She received her master's degree in Community Counseling from Georgia State University and her doctorate degree in School Psychology with a minor in Neuropsychology from the University of Georgia. During her twenty years in the field of developmental disabilities, she has worked with children and their families through the Kennedy Krieger Institute and University of Maryland. Her entrepreneurial spirit and visionary approach enable Trellis to remain a formidable leader in the field of autism.
Diana Campitelli, M.S.Ed.
Associate Executive Director
Diana Campitelli is a graduate of the Johns Hopkins School of Education and holds a master's degree and certification in Special Education. She gained experience in the classroom at the Kennedy Krieger School's LEAP program and the High Road Academy of Howard County. She has been with Trellis since its inception in 2003, and has over twelve years of professional experience educating children with autism. Diana's unique ability to quickly assess clinical issues and provide effective solutions combined with her nurturing demeanor make her an invaluable member of the Trellis Team.
Suzanne Heid, M.S.
Associate Executive Director
Suzanne Heid graduated from Western Maryland College with a master's degree in School Counseling Psychology and began her career at the Kennedy Krieger Institute's LEAP program. She has 11 years of professional experience designing and implementing highly successful treatment programs that meet the behavioral needs of children with autism. Suzanne's unique blend of strong clinical skills and nurturing approach make her an integral part of the Trellis Team since 2003.
Tara Wagner, M.S.Ed., BCBA
Director of Education Services
Tara Wagner received her master's degree in Special Education and advanced certificate in autism from the Johns Hopkins University School of Education and holds a Maryland State Certificate in the areas of Special Education and School Administration. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and has over 18 years of experience in educating children with autism, nine of which have been with Trellis. Tara sees wonder and inspiration in the education of young learners with autism and passes her enthusiasm to her professional staff.
Kathryn Ewell, M.S.Ed., OTR/L
Director of Clinical Services
Kathryn Ewell is a licensed Occupational Therapist with a concentration in Sensory Integration. She holds a master's degree in Special Education from the Johns Hopkins School of Education. She has a fun-loving and creative approach to designing and implementing OT services for children with developmental disabilities. Kathryn has eight years of professional experience and has been with Trellis for over five years.
Rachel Maher, M.A., BCBA
Director of Autism Waiver Services
Rachel Maher is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and holds a master's degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County. Rachel has expertise in the areas of designing and implementing effective, evidence-based programs that provide social and recreational learning for children with autism. The Trellis team is very fortunate that she decided to join us in 2010.