Michael Latessa has been named the new executive director at Youngstown State University's Rich Center for Autism.

Latessa was previously serving as the Interim Executive Director for the center since August 2023, and before that was the center's Associate Director of Development.

According to a press release, Latessa has made it his mission to expand the reach of the center to help serve the growing need of autism services in the state of Ohio.

He's spent a significant amount of time on YSU's campus as a student athlete, teacher and advocate for the center.

"To walk the halls and see the impact our staff makes with our staff makes with our students on a daily basis is a testament to our vision," Latessa said.

The Rich Center for Autism was established in 1995 and continues to help care for those who are on the autism spectrum.