Kari Johnston

Kari Johnston began her career with the Autism Society of North Carolina in 1997, providing direct support services to several individuals with ASD in eastern North Carolina. She then became a Community Services Coordinator and, in 2000, opened the Greenville Services Office. During her tenure in the eastern region, Kari held numerous positions with increasing responsibility, including Eastern Regional Director. Under her leadership, the region expanded to serve more than 100 individuals with ASD throughout 12 counties, employed more than 180 staff providing direct support services, and operated two residential homes. Throughout this time, the eastern region earned a reputation for excellent clinical quality and built strong partnerships with area LMEs/MCOs. In 2014, Kari became the Director of Services and is responsible for the oversight of statewide direct support services to nearly 700 individuals with ASD served by more than 900 direct care and support staff in five regions across North Carolina. Kari attended Pennsylvania State University, where she received her bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Services. She resides in Clayton with her husband and four children.