SAN DIEGO, Jan. 6, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Autism Research Institute today announced the appointment of a new member to its board of directors, Christopher J. Flynn, former Senior Vice President of the Pentagon Federal Credit Union and President and CEO of the PenFed Foundation. Paul Hardy, M.D., Chairman of the Board, announced his appointment and the election of Flynn as Treasurer during a recent board meeting.

Flynn retired in late 2014, and now resides in Dublin, New Hampshire and Vero Beach, Florida. Flynn's niece has a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

In addition to Flynn's appointment, Dr. Hardy, of Dublin, N.H. was elected Chairman of the Board; Kimberly Susan Taylor, J.D. of Taylorsville, N.C. was elected Secretary. Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D., the Institute's Executive Director was elected President and CEO. Additional voting board members include Jane Johnson of New York, N.Y. and Genevieve Athens of Lewisville, N.C.

The Autism Research Institute (ARI) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization focused on conducting and sponsoring research aimed at improving the quality of life for today's generation of children and adults with autism spectrum disorders. ARI believes in "research that makes a difference," and over the past five decades, ARI has pioneered a number of successful treatments supported by experimental and clinical evidence. ARI promotes understanding of autism via online education and research, but does not accept special interest money nor endorse or reject specific treatments or professional services. www.autism.com.

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SOURCE Autism Research Institute