Meet Our DEEP

The Disability Experience Expert Panel (DEEP) is a group of adults with lived intellectual and developmental disability experience, many of whom have experience living with co-occurring mental health conditions.

They serve as research partners on our project.

  • The DEEP is co-chaired by two Nisonger Center staff.
  • Community members with advocacy training & experience were recruited to form the DEEP. 
  • DEEP members are paid consultants. 
  • The DEEP advises the project to guide inclusive studies and share clear results. 

Click on the person’s name below for bios of DEEP members.

Braden Gertz

DEEP Co-Chair

Braden Gertz

DEEP Co-Chair

Braden Gertz

DEEP Team Member

Ruben Garcia

DEEP Team Member

DEEP Team Member

Latisha Martin

DEEP Team Member

Samantha Perry

DEEP Team Member

Ashley Poling

DEEP Team Member

Taylor Richardson

DEEP Team Member

Colin Schaffer

DEEP Team Member

Kristy Stepp

DEEP Team Member

Marci Straughter

DEEP Team Member