About the Autism Center of Nebraska
ACN is a certified developmental disabilities service provider under contract with the State of Nebraska Health & Human Services, Division of Developmental Disabilities. Nearly 150 individuals receive services from ACN, ranging in age from five to 65. Although ACN specializes in autism, we serve persons with a variety of developmental disabilities. Individualized services and supports are designed to lead to a higher level of independence for each individual receiving services, addressing the individual’s desires for his/her future. ACN provides a variety of residential, vocational, pre-vocational and educational services. At ACN, we believe that every person, regardless of disability, is valuable, and deserves to be considered valued members of their home community.
ACN is guided by a team of committed individuals with substantial backgrounds in the field:
Leslie Bishop Hartung
Leslie Bishop Hartung, President and Chief Executive Officer, has worked in non-profit management since the early 1980s. A graduate of Hamline University, Bishop Hartung previously served for nine years as Executive Director of the Arc of Norfolk, Inc., an organization advocating for the rights of citizens with developmental disabilities and their families. A family member of an individual who experiences developmental disabilities, Bishop Hartung sets a high standard for quality services at ACN. Contact Leslie at LBH@ACNomaha.org.
Bryon Tenski
Chief Financial Officer Bryon Tenski joined ACN in 2023 after 8 years at Bellevue Christian Center, where he served as Finance Manager/Senior Operations Manager. Prior to that, he worked in the banking industry for nearly 12 years, and served in a variety of roles. A graduate of Wayne State College, Bryon is passionate about using his Business Management degree to serve others. Contact Bryon at btenski@acnomaha.org.
Diane Pacal
Diane Pacal, director of residential and supported services, has worked in the field since the early 2000s, serving as residential coordinator before assuming the director role. Diane also has 10 years of volunteering for a organization that takes people with disability on vacations. Diane is very passionate about the mission statement we have at ACN.
Michael Blackstone, Sr.
Michael Blackstone was born and raised in the Omaha area and attended high school and college in–state. Michael’s experience supporting people with developmental disabilities and their families dates to 2003. Michael started in the field as a Direct Support Professional, and through hard work and dedication, has achieved the position of Day Services Director.
Board of directors
Joan Marcus
Ken Keith, Ph.D.
Laurie Ackermann
Cheri Albin
Ann Bird
Bill Bishop
Travis Buck
Cindy Ellis, M.D.
Leah Janke
Thomas Lee
Megan Misegadis
Nate Parks
Seamus Kelly, JD
Leslie Bishop Hartung (ex officio)
