JSDD: Life | Home | Tech
Susan Nasberg- Abrams
Life | Home | Tech Program Manager
Susan started at JSDD with the launch of Life | Home | Tech and has loved working on the development of this program. She has a master’s degree in communication, and is certified as both an Enabling Technology Integration Specialist (ETIS) and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS). She also volunteers with her local school district’s Special Education Parent Advisory Committee (SEPAC).
At JSDD, Susan supports adults in the IDD and older adult communities as they explore ways to increase self-sufficiency, enhance safety and bring more joy to their daily lives. She especially enjoys showcasing different devices and giving tours of the Life | Home | Tech Demo Home, where community members can see firsthand how enabling technology can make a difference in their life, or the life of someone they love.
“I feel fortunate to work on the Life | Home | Tech program, where I gets to see people reach their goals and accomplish something they did not think was possible.”
Susan’s favorite device is the Echo Show because it has many meaningful options to foster independence, including setting reminders, to-do lists and alarms. It also promotes learning in a more accessible way.
Tatiana Copeland
Life | Home | Tech Assistant Program Manager
Tatiana believes in empowering individuals and fostering independence. With a bachelor’s degree in social work, she has dedicated her career to supporting people on their journey to self-sufficiency through various resources and supports. Her previous experience in public assistance counseling has further strengthened her commitment to helping others achieve autonomy and growth. As a certified Enabling Technology Integration Specialist (ETIS) and in Social and Behavioral Research (SBE), Tatiana is skilled in leveraging technology and research to create innovative solutions. Her belief in the inherent strength of every person drives her work as she strives to provide opportunities for self-empowerment. Outside of her professional life, Tatiana is a certified yoga instructor and breathwork practitioner, using these practices to promote well-being and mindfulness.
“I believe that true empowerment comes from within, and I’m dedicated to helping individuals unlock their potential and achieve their goals. Working on the Life | Home | Tech Program allows me to continue my mission of supporting independence and expand my toolbox with the use of enabling technology.”
Tatiana’s favorite piece of technology is the Amazon Echo Dot because of its versatility and easy use.
Aubrie George
Director of Grants and Sponsored Programs
Aubrie George is a dedicated non-profit professional with over ten years of experience at JSDD, focused on empowering individuals. Since joining in 2014, she has progressed from WAE Center Program Development to WAE Center Director in 2020, showcasing her leadership and commitment. Aubrie holds a background in Sociology, Anthropology, and International Studies, and an M.A. in Student Affairs/Counseling in Higher Education from Montclair State University, underscoring her belief in education’s transformative power. In 2023, Aubrie advanced to Director of Grants & Sponsored Programs, where she drives impactful grant initiatives that align with funder requirements, enhancing JSDD’s programs.
“I love being part of the Life | Home | Tech program. I work with a great team of people who are dedicated to helping enhance the lives of others. We are constantly learning and evolving. It’s exciting.”
Aubrie’s favorite piece of enabling technology is the water sensor. Leaks are never fun in the home, and this simple device comes in handy when detecting leaks and helps to minimize water damage. It gives people peace of mind.
Jessica Goldstein
Associate Manager of Programs, Outreach and Communications
With a Bachelor of Science in Theatre Arts Management from Ithaca College and certifications in Program Development and Evaluation from CVNL and Enabling Technology Leadership from Tech First SHIFT, Jessica brings a diverse background in operations, administration, and program development. In her current role as Associate Manager of Programs, Outreach, and Communication at JSDD, Jessica has contributed to content creation, grant writing, and marketing efforts, while also supporting agency outreach across multiple platforms. Prior to working for JSDD, Jessica served as Director of Operations at Jazz House Kids, optimizing workflows and contributing to the success of the Montclair Jazz Festival through fundraising and volunteer coordination. With extensive experience managing administrative tasks and HR processes in previous roles at WithumSmith + Brown and Fried & Kowgios Partners, Jessica has developed a versatile skill set that enhances organizational efficiency.
“Working on Life | Home | Tech means being part of a movement that empowers individuals to lead more independent, fulfilling lives through technology, which is both rewarding and inspiring.”
Jessica’s favorite piece of enabling technology is the induction cooktop because it heats only the cookware, reducing the risk of burns and fire hazards. The simple controls and automatic shut-off features promote safety and independence in the kitchen, making cooking more accessible and manageable.
Randee Lesser
Director of Quality Assurance for Technology
As the Director of Quality Assurance for Technology at JSDD, Randee brings over a decade of experience in quality assurance, compliance, and program management. She holds a deep commitment to maintaining the highest standards of compliance and continuous improvement. Randee’s previous roles, including Associate Director of Quality Assurance and Compliance and Program Manager of the WAE Center, have equipped her with a robust skill set in policy interpretation, audit oversight, and regulatory adherence.
In Randee’s current position, she drives technology-driven quality improvement initiatives. She strives to foster a culture of accountability and excellence, ensuring that JSDD operations align with both state and federal regulations, while the agency provides the highest quality of care.
“Working on Life | Home | Tech means being at the forefront of innovation, where every day presents an opportunity to improve lives through technology. It’s about making a tangible difference in the quality of care, service delivery, and encouraging greater independence for our residents and members.”
Randee’s favorite piece of enabling technology is the Smart Lock, which has been pivotal in making door locks more convenient and accessible.
