Los Angeles, CA, April 01, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Los Angeles, CA — Special Needs Network (SNN), a leading nonprofit organization serving individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities and their families, today announced the appointment of Hayley Mason as Chief of Staff and Head of Strategic Partnerships, Media and Engagement. In this role, Mason will support Founder and President Areva Martin and the executive leadership team in advancing strategic initiatives, strengthening external partnerships, expanding media presence, and supporting the organization’s continued growth and impact.
Mason brings experience in high-visibility communications, organizational leadership, stakeholder engagement, and partnership strategy. She is known for developing and executing complex initiatives and cross-sector projects that align civic, philanthropic, and corporate stakeholders to drive long-term growth.
As Chief of Staff, Mason will work closely with the Founder and President and senior leadership to help manage key organizational priorities and cross-departmental initiatives, while supporting strategic planning and execution across the organization. In her role leading Strategic Partnerships, Media and Engagement, she will focus on developing and managing relationships that will strengthen the organization’s media strategy, brand partnerships, and public engagement efforts.
She will play a key role in supporting several of Special Needs Network’s major initiatives, including workforce development programs for neurodivergent individuals, inclusive housing and community development initiatives, public policy and civic engagement efforts, and high-profile events to advance comprehensive opportunities.
Prior to joining Special Needs Network, Mason built a distinguished career as an award-winning television journalist, including recognition with multiple Emmy and Edward R. Murrow Awards. Her reporting in major U.S. markets, along with national media appearances, established her reputation for advocacy-driven storytelling and trusted public engagement. She later expanded her work into media strategy and partnership development, leading cross-sector initiatives, coordinating large-scale events, and supporting collaborations between organizations, brands, and community leaders.
Mason earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism from Howard University and a Master of Business Administration from Columbia Business School, where she focused on media, entertainment marketing, and organizational management.
“Hayley is joining Special Needs Network at an important moment in our organization’s growth and expansion,” said Areva Martin, Founder and President of Special Needs Network. “Her background in partnerships, communications, and strategic coordination will help us continue building the relationships and platforms necessary to expand opportunities for the families and communities we serve.”
“I’ve long admired the work of fearless change agents, like Areva and the devoted teams at SNN, who are innovating and building intentional pathways in advocacy, services, workforce development, and community engagement,” said Mason. “I am honored to join the organization and look forward to helping strengthen partnerships, expand awareness, and create real opportunities for individuals with disabilities and families across Southern California.”
_________________________________________________________________________
Special Needs Network, Inc. (SNN) is a nonprofit grassroots organization responding to the crisis of autism and other developmental disabilities in underserved communities. We recognize the intersectionality of individuals with disabilities and that their fight for disability rights is inextricably tied to the fight for racial justice and the civil rights of all people.