Dub-C Autism Program (D-CAP)

Cherie Fishbaugh, Director of Autism Services

Cherie Fishbaugh is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She earned her M.A. in special education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Ohio State University. Cherie has worked with individuals from the age of 18 months to adulthood.  Her experience includes working at the Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders at Nationwide Children's Hospital, serving as an Education Consultant for the May Institute, and assisting with program and clinical development for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Autism Resource Center (SPARC).  In 2016, Cherie joined West Chester University as the Director of Autism Services and developed Dub-C Autism Program (D-CAP). Cherie's clinical and research expertise are in the areas of behavior analysis, autism spectrum disorders, behavior management, social skills training, and positive behavior supports. 

Other: Co-founder and executive board member of Neurodiversity Employment Network- Philadelphia; Steering committee for Alliance: College to Employment Program. Co-Chair fo Planning Committee for College Autism Summit; Advisor for Eagles Autism Foundation- College Program at WCU; Mentor for SquareOne; PEERS certified; 

Amanda Martin, Assistant Director

Amanda Martin earned her Masters of Science in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs from West Chester University making her an alumnus twice. Her thesis was on Accessibility for Students with Disabilities. Amanda is a member of AHEAD, an Association on Higher Education And Disability. She is already a familiar face around campus to many as she has previous experience at West Chester University serving students from the Office of Educational Accessibility. Furthermore she has experience with the theoretical foundations of higher education, pedagogy, ACPA/NASPA Professional Competencies, accommodations, and assistive technology tools for students. She is always seeking new knowledge and loves to learn. You will additionally find Amanda has oodles of West Chester University spirit! Go Rams!

Brooke Williams, Assistant Director

Brooke Williams is a Licensed Social Worker. She earned her B.S. in Psychology and Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies from the University of Pittsburgh in 2021 and graduated from West Chester University as a Master of Social Work (MSW) in 2024. During her 3 years as a graduate student at WCU, Brooke enjoyed working as a D-CAP Graduate Assistant, spending time with THE D-CAP Doodle, and volunteering with the Eagles Autism Foundation College Program on campus (go Birds!). Brooke is excited to be able to continue her time at D-CAP as she enters her new role of Assistant Director.

Emma Billingsley, Employment Coordinator

Emma earned their Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a minor in dance in Spring 2021 from West Chester University. They have experience working with Rams After Hours, Success Coaching, and the Career Development Center. They have been a part of DCAP since 2017, and an ambassador since 2018. Emma has worn many hats in DCAP throughout the years – a student, ambassador, Graduate Assistant, and now as the new Employment Coordinator.  Emma looks forward to working with students on their career aspirations and to getting to know them further.

Hannah Frederick, Graduate Assistant

Hannah Frederick is a third-year graduate student in the School Counseling program at West Chester University, where she also earned her undergraduate degree in Public Health in 2016. Hannah brings a wealth of experience working with both youth and adults with intellectual differences, having served in roles ranging from supports coordination and direct support, to a high school paraprofessional. She is also a dedicated volunteer at the Special Olympics held annually at Penn State University. Through these experiences Hannah has deepened her passion for advocacy. Hannah is eager to contribute her expertise and enthusiasm to D-CAP, with a focus on promoting student success and personal growth.

Ryan King, Graduate Assistant

Ryan King completed his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a marketing minor in 2022 at Susquehanna University (as shown). While attending Susquehanna University, Ryan was a member of the men's swim team, and since graduating, he has helped coach swimmers at the Phoenixville YMCA between the ages of 6 and 18. Ryan has also gained valuable experience helping students within the Autism Spectrum community reach their potential as a teacher assistant at Devereux CARES. While working as a teacher assistant, he also began his journey as a graduate student at West Chester University, pursuing a master's degree in School Counseling. Ryan aspires to make a positive impact in the development of all students and hopes to obtain his LPC in the coming years. Ryan is excited to translate the experience he has accumulated into his role as a graduate assistant at D-CAP!

Nallely Martinez, Graduate Assistant

Nallely Martinez is a first-year graduate student in the Speech-Language Pathology program at West Chester University. She completed her undergraduate degree in Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences and a minor in American Sign Language in the Spring of 2022 at Kean University. Previously, Nallely has gained experience working with individuals within the Autism Spectrum community as she has been a paraprofessional at a specialized High School for students with disabilities as well as an Applied Behavior Analyst. Through her experiences, she knows that working as a Speech-Language Pathologist is her passion and is looking forward to learning from her future patients.

Courtney Ockershausen, Graduate Assistant

Courtney Ockershausen is a second-year graduate student in the School Counseling Program at West Chester University. She earned her B.A. at San Francisco State University in 2019 in Child and Adolescent Development with a concentration in Child and Family Studies. Courtney has experience in non-profit work and program development ranging from Jumpstart, America Reads and programs within the North Penn YMCA. Additionally, Courtney has spent the past 4 years working in higher education in student support and administrative roles. With this experience, she has developed a passion for student success, social justice and inclusion which drives her involvement within the D-CAP program at West Chester. Courtney is enthusiastic to continue her journey to become a licensed school counselor and to build connections within the D-CAP community!

Nikki Woods, Graduate Assistant

Nikki is a first-year graduate student in the Social Work program. Nikki graduated from West Chester with an undergraduate degree in Education and a master's in Special Education. After spending 15 years in the public-school setting, she decided to pursue a new direction of helping others. Nikki has years of experience working with neurodivergent individuals both professionally and personally. She is a wife and mom of three young kids and basically loves anything to do with animals, nature, and being active. In her spare time, she volunteers at different mental health non-profit organizations. Nikki is excited to explore the different career paths in Social Work but has a strong interest in the human-animal bond and Animal Assisted Therapy.