Table of Contents

A Message from the Chair

President William J. Clinton deeply honored me by naming me as the Chair of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel in June of 2000. It is in that role, I respectfully share with you the first annual interim progress report of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel. This report covers the time period from the day on which this legislation was signed into law, December 17, 1999, through December 16, 2000.

Public Law 106-170, The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 establishes the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel within the Social Security Administration. The purpose of this Panel is to advise the Commissioner of Social Security and report to the President and Congress on issues related to work incentive programs, planning and assistance for individuals with disabilities and the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program established under this Act. The Panel has an important role to play in the implementation of this very significant law, which provides the greatest opportunity to date for America's citizens with disabilities to return to work.

The Panel is composed of twelve highly qualified individuals four of whom were appointed by the President, four by the Senate and four by the House of Representatives. The appointees represent an excellent cross-section of individuals with experience and expert knowledge as recipients, providers, veterans, employers and employees in the fields of employment services, vocational rehabilitation and other disability related support services. The majority of the members appointed are individuals with disabilities or their representatives. There are several current or former disability beneficiaries of Social Security on the Panel.

The first year of the Panel was devoted primarily to establishment, the appointment process and organizational activities necessary to create a fully functioning Panel of this sort. The Social Security Administration has worked closely with the panel to facilitate its ability to begin immediately with significant work upon establishment in July. The Panel has conducted numerous meetings with opportunities for public comment from citizens with disabilities and their advocates, economists, business leaders and providers concerning various aspects of the implementation of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act. The Panel has made several substantive recommendations to the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration concerning the implementation of the law and the development of regulations. As this report goes to press, the Panel has planned a full year of activity and is drafting a Report of Advice in response to regulatory activity.

Respectfully submitted,

Sarah Wiggins Mitchell, Chair

Progress Report

July 24 to December 16, 2000

Creation of the Panel
The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, Public Law 106-170, established the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel (the Panel) within the Social Security Administration on December 17, 1999. The Panel is governed by the provisions of Public Law 92-463, as amended, which sets forth standards for the formation and use of advisory committees, and the General Services Administration regulations on the Federal Advisory Committee Act.

The charter establishing the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel was submitted to the General Services Administration and filed with the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Finance of the Senate on March 21, 2000. Members were appointed by the President, the House of Representatives and the Senate during May and June of 2000. The Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, Kenneth S. Apfel, swore in the Panel on July 24, 2000.

Duties
The Panel duties include advising the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration and reporting to the President and Congress on issues related to work incentives programs, planning, and assistance for individuals with disabilities and the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program established under the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act.

The Panel meets quarterly or more often at the call of the Chairperson or a majority of its members. The Panel may hold hearings and take testimony and evidence as appropriate. Eight members constitute a quorum but a lesser number may hold hearings.

The Panel shall transmit annual interim progress reports to the President and the Congress. This is the first of such reports. A final report is due not later than December 16, 2007. The final report shall contain a detailed statement of the findings and conclusions of the Panel, together with its recommendations for legislative and administrative actions.

Membership
The Panel is composed of 12 members. The President, the Senate and the House of Representatives each appointed four. No more than two of the presidential appointments could be of the same political party. Members have experience or expert knowledge as recipients, veterans, providers, employers or employees in the fields of employment services, vocational rehabilitation and other disability related support services. A majority of the members appointed are individuals with disabilities, or representatives of individuals with disabilities, including current or former disability beneficiaries. The President designated the Chairperson of the Panel to serve a term of 4 years.

Terms
Appointments are for four-year terms. Of the members first appointed, one-half are appointed for a term of two years and the remaining are appointed for four years. A member may serve after the expiration of their term until a successor has taken office. Members shall be paid at the daily rate of a General Series 15/10 plus travel expenses including per diem. A vacancy in the Panel shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made. The Panel terminates on January 16, 2008, thirty (30) days after the submission of its final report.

Meetings and Activities
Between the organizing meeting of the Panel on July 24 and 25, 2000 and December 16, 2000, the Panel conducted numerous activities. It held one quarterly meeting, numerous teleconferences, provided opportunities for public testimony on the implementation of the Act and conducted extensive workgroup meetings. Congressional staff and representatives of several federal agencies including the Social Security Administration and the Health Care Financing Administration briefed the Panel.

The Panel has established a web site as part of the Office of Employment Support Programs web site under www.socialsecurity.gov/work/resources/toolkit to give the public electronic access to information about the Panel's activities. Notices of all meetings are posted there as well as in the Federal Register. Minutes of meetings and other documents produced by the Panel are posted as well. The Panel has an electronic mailbox, TWWIAPanel@ssa.gov, to facilitate communication from interested members of the public to the Panel. The Panel staff also has developed an electronic list serve of disability advocates and organizations to communicate broadly to interested stakeholders.

Three work groups were established by the Chair to review and analyze the provisions of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act and related regulatory activities in preparation for deliberations by the entire Panel. Topics studied include who should receive a ticket, the qualifications of the employment networks, milestones payment systems and the dispute resolution provisions of the law. Numerous experts were called upon to brief the members on a variety of topics related to the workgroups.

The panel continues to analyze the various aspects of the implementation of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, in preparation for preparing an advice report to the Commissioner of Social Security following the issuance of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. The Panel is also planing to hold public hearing in various location across the country to seek input from beneficiaries of SSA and other stakeholders on specific aspects of the implementation of the Ticket to Work provisions. The Panel continues to develop its relationship with the Health Care Financing Administration, as it implements the health care provisions of the Act.

Recommendations and Findings
At its first meeting, July 24 through 25, 2000, in discussions with the Deputy Commissioner of SSA for the Office of Disability and Income Security Programs, the Panel made two strong recommendations to the Social Security Administration concerning the development of regulations implementing the Ticket to Work. The Panel first advised that the SSA make Tickets to Work available for all beneficiaries. Secondly, it urged SSA to use the longest comment period possible during the regulatory process to allow maximum public comment.

The Panel began the process of establishing formal lines of communication with the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration. They also made recommendations that the selection of states in which to roll out the Ticket to Work should be done using a more random methodology. The Panel submitted formal comments to the Office of Policy and the Office of Employment Support Programs concerning the proposed rollout states for implementation of the Ticket to Work Program. A formal process for advice and consultation from the Panel was proposed to the Social Security Administration and the Health Care Financing Administration.

As this first interim progress report, for the period ending December 16, 2000 is submitted to the President, Congress and the Social Security Administration, the Panel is preparing a Report of Advice to the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration. That report will address a wide variety of topics included in the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. The Panel has also scheduled quarterly meetings and plans to hold a series of regional meetings across the country to gather public comment from Social Security beneficiaries and other stakeholders on the implementation of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999.

Members of the Panel

Richard V. Burkhauser, Ph.D. serves as the Sarah Gibson Blanding Professor of Policy Analysis and Chair, Department of Policy Analysis and Management at Cornell University, Ithaca, NY. He has lectured, published, testified before and served on public and private commissions focused on the employment and economic well being of people with disabilities. He was appointed by the Senate to serve a term of two years.

Kristin E. Flaten is an Employment Consultant for Lifetrack Resources, Inc., St. Paul, MN. She started her own small business, INITIATIVES, dedicated to enhancing the lives of persons with mental illnesses by providing educational and support services, advocacy, benefits analysis, and work incentive plans. She serves on the State Rehabilitation Council and as the vice chair of the State Advisory Council on Mental Health. She was appointed by the President to serve a term of two years.

Thomas P. Golden is a faculty member of Cornell University's Program on Employment and Disability in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations in Ithaca, NY. He is currently project director for numerous efforts focusing on training and organizational development related to the utilization of work incentives, transition systems change and other issues pertaining to employment for people with disabilities. The President appointed him for a term of two years.

Frances Gracechild is the Executive Director, Resources for Independent Living, Inc., Sacramento, CA and instructor at California State University at Sacramento. She is president of Health Access of California and served as a commissioner for the Commission on Disability appointed by the former Attorney General of California. She was appointed by the House of Representatives to serve a two-year term.

Christine M. Griffin is the Executive Director, Disability Law Center, Boston, MA. She is a Trustee for the Paralyzed Veterans of America Spinal Cord Research Foundation and is a member of the Massachusetts and the Washington, DC Bar. The Senate appointed her to serve a term of four years.

Larry D. Henderson is the Executive Director of Independent Resources, Inc., Wilmington, DE and chair of the Developmental Disabilities Planning Council of Delaware. Prior to his current position he was associated with the Salvation Army's Family Service Department. He was appointed by the Senate to serve a two-year term.

Jerome Kleckley, MSW, CSW, is the Director of Hospital Services for the Eastern Paralyzed Veterans Association in Jackson Heights, NY and an advocate for veterans with disabilities. He is a veteran of the U.S. Navy and has been actively involved in veteran's issues. He was appointed to serve a four-year term by the House.

Stephanie Smith Lee is the Governmental Affairs Representative of the National Down Syndrome Society and resides in Oakton, VA. She has played a key role in the passage of federal disability legislation and has led successful grass roots advocacy efforts at the local, state and federal levels. The Senate appointed her to serve a four-year term.

Bryon R. MacDonald is employed as a Public Policy Advocate with the World Institute on Disability, Oakland, CA. He is a Board member at large of the National Council on Independent Living and chair of that organization's Social Security Subcommittee. For many years, he has developed employment support and benefits counseling programs and served as a consultant to several advisory committees on employment support for persons with disabilities. He was appointed by the President to serve a four-year term.

Sarah Wiggins Mitchell, Chair is the President and Executive Director of the New Jersey Protection and Advocacy, Inc., the designated protection and advocacy system for the State. She was appointed by President Clinton to chair the panel for a four-year term. She is a member of the New Jersey and Pennsylvania Bars and has a background in nursing and social work. In addition to serving on numerous state and national disability organizations, she is the past president of the Board of the National Association of Protection and Advocacy Systems and a past member of the American Bar Association's Commission on Mental and Physical Disabilities.

Stephen L. Start is the founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of S.L. Start & Associates, Spokane, WA, a company that provides professional management, rehabilitation, and residential services for people with disabilities, seniors and economically disadvantaged individuals. He is a member of numerous national and regional residential and rehabilitation boards. He was appointed by the House to serve a four-year term.

Susan Webb is the President, Webb Transitions, Inc. of Phoenix, AZ. As a former Social Security Disability Insurance beneficiary, she used work incentives and vocational rehabilitation services to return to work. She worked for eight years as the Executive Director of the Arizona Bridge to Independent Living. She served on the Board of Directors of the National Council on Independent Living for three consecutive years, serving as its Social Security Subcommittee chair. She was appointed by the House to serve a two-year term.

Additional Documents

Charter

Principles

Operating Procedures

Chronology of Year One

Official Correspondence from the Panel

1. Mitchell letter to Commissioner, 8-4-00

2. Burkhauser memo on State selection for roll-out, 9-21-00

3. Mitchell memo to Commissioner on consultation and advice process with SSA, 10-30-00

4. Mitchell letter to Hamilton on consultation and advice process with HCFA, 10-30-00

Charter

Purpose

Section 101(f) of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 (Act), Public Law 106-170 establishes the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel (the Panel) within the Social Security Administration. The Panel is to advise the Commissioner of Social Security (the Commissioner), the President, and the Congress on issues related to work incentives programs, planning and assistance for individuals with disabilities as provided under section 101(f)(2)(A) of that Act. The Panel also is to advise the Commissioner on matters specified in section 101(f)(2)(B) of that Act, including certain issues related to the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program established under section 101(a) of that Act.

Authority

Section 101(f) of Public Law 106-170, establishes the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel within the Social Security Administration. The Panel is governed by the provisions of Public Law 92-463, as amended (5 U. S. Code, Appendix 2), which sets forth standards for the formation and use of advisory committees, and the General Services Administration regulations on the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) at 41 C.F.R. 101-6.1001 et seq.

Functions

Responsibility
The Panel shall report to the Commissioner.

Duties
The Panel shall have the following duties as provided under section 101(f)(2) of Public Law 106-170:

Advise the Commissioner, the President and the Congress on issues related to work incentive programs, planning, and assistance for individuals with disabilities, including work incentive provisions under titles II, XI, XVI, XVIII, and XIX of the Act; and

-     With respect to the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (the Program) established under section 1148 of the Social Security Act --

    (i)   Advise the Commissioner with respect to phase-in sites for the Program and fully implementing the Program thereafter, the refinement of access of disabled beneficiaries to employment networks, payment systems, and management information systems, and advise the Commissioner whether such measures are being taken to the extent necessary to ensure the success of the Program;

    (ii)   Advise the Commissioner regarding the most effective designs for research and demonstration projects associated with the Program or conducted pursuant to section 302 of Public Law 106-170 (relating to demonstration projects providing for reductions in Social Security disability benefits based on earnings);

    (iii)    Advise the Commissioner on the development of performance measures relating to quality assurance section 1148(d)(6) of the Social Security Act (relating to quality assurance in the provision of services by employment networks); and

    (iv)    Furnish progress reports on the Program to the Commissioner and each House of Congress.

Other Functions

The Panel shall be available upon request --

-    By the Commissioner during the development and evaluation of the study required under section 1148(h)(5)(C) of the Social Security Act (relating to a report by the Commissioner on the adequacy of incentives for employment networks to provide services under the Program to certain individuals);

-    By the Commissioner in connection with the evaluations under section 101(d)(4) of Public Law 106-170 (relating to assessing the effectiveness of activities carried out under the provisions of, and amendments made by, section 101 of that law) and the Commissioner's responsibilities under section 101(d)(4)(C) with respect to such evaluations;

-    By the Commissioner in connection with the Commissioner's responsibility under section 1149(a) of the Social Security Act to establish community-based work incentives planning and assistance program as provided under section 1149; and

-    By the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services in connection with the Secretary's responsibility under section 203(f) of Public Law 106-170 to submit a recommendation to certain committees of Congress regarding whether the grant program established under section 203 should be continued after fiscal year 2011.

Pursuant to section 1150(e) of the Social Security Act, the Panel as well as the Commissioner, shall receive the annual report required to be submitted by each Protection and Advocacy system that receives a payment under 1150 of the Social Security Act.

Interim Reports and Final Report

The Panel shall furnish interim reports and a final report to the President and the Congress as required under section 101(f)(6) of Public Law 106-170 (see "Reports" below). The Panel shall also furnish these reports to the Commissioner.

Structure

The Panel shall be composed of 12 members of whom 4 will be appointed by the President, 4 by the Senate and 4 by the House of Representatives as provided under section 101(f)(3) of Public Law 106-170. No more than two of the presidential appointments may be of the same political party. Appointments shall be made without regard to the provisions of the Title 5, U. S. Code, governing appointments to competitive service.

Members shall have experience or expert knowledge as a recipient, provider, employer, or employee in the fields of, or related to, employment services, vocational rehabilitation and other support services. At least one-half of the members appointed shall be individuals with disabilities, or representatives of individuals with disabilities, with consideration given to current or former disability beneficiaries.

Of the 12 members first appointed, one-half of such members shall be appointed for a term of two years and the remaining shall be appointed for a term of four years in the manner provided under section 101(f)(3)(C) of Public Law 106-170. Thereafter, each member shall be appointed for a term of four years or, if less, for the remaining life of the Panel as provided under that section. A member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration of the term for which his or her predecessor was appointed shall be appointed only for the remainder of that term. A vacancy in the panel shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made. A member may serve after the expiration of his or her term until a successor has taken office.

The President shall designate the Chairperson of the Panel to serve a term of four years.

Meetings

The Panel shall meet at least quarterly or at other times at the call of the Chairperson or a majority of its members with advanced concurrence from a government official designated by the Commissioner of Social Security who shall be present at all meetings. The Panel may hold hearings and take testimony and evidence, as appropriate, as provided under section 101(f)(5)(A) of Public Law 106-170. Eight members of the Panel shall constitute a quorum but a lesser number may hold hearings.

Meetings shall be open to the public except as determined otherwise in accordance with 5 U.S. Code, Appendix 2 and other applicable laws. Due notice of all meetings shall be given to the public. Meetings shall be conducted, and records of the proceedings kept, as required by applicable laws and regulations. A web site will be maintained for the publication and review of the Panel's documents.

All meeting will be held in accessible locations and reasonable accommodations will be provided to the known needs (i.e., interpreters for individuals with hearing impairments, Braille and large print copies of materials for individuals with visual impairments) of the members and the public in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Compensation

Members of the Panel who are not full-time Federal employees shall be paid compensation at the daily rate of a GS-15, step 10, plus travel expenses, including per diem for each day (including travel time) the member attends meetings or otherwise performs duties of the Panel. While serving away from their homes or regular places of business, the members will be allowed travel expenses in accordance with Standard Government Travel Regulations for persons on temporary duty.

Annual Cost Estimate

The Social Security Administration is responsible for providing the necessary support for the Panel.

The estimated annual cost for operating the Panel, including compensation and travel expenses for the members but excluding staff support is $1,106,000.

The estimated annual person years required is five staff hired to support the Panel at an annual estimated cost of $438,300.

Consultants

The Panel may also engage additional technical assistance from experts and consultants skilled in work incentives, medical requirements and employment of persons with disabilities as necessary to carry out its functions as provided under section 101(f)(4)(C) of Public Law 106-170.

Reports

The Panel shall transmit interim reports at least annually and a final report to the President and the Congress not later than December 17, 2007. The final report shall contain a detailed statement of the findings and conclusions of the Panel, together with its recommendations for legislation and administrative actions which the Panel considers appropriate.

Termination

Unless renewed by appropriate action prior to its expiration, the Panel shall terminate thirty (30) days after the date of the submission of its final report.

Approved:

Date: March 21, 2000

Signed: Kenneth S. Apfel
Commissioner, Social Security Administration

(Original copy on file.)

 Principles

Whereas, The purpose of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel (Panel) is to advise the President, Congress, and Commissioner of Social Security on issues related to work incentives programs, planning, and assistance for individuals with disabilities, including work incentive provisions under titles II, XI, XVI, XVIII, and XIX of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 401 et seq., 1301 et seq., 1381 et seq., 1395 et seq., 1396 et seq.); and with respect to the Ticket to Work and Self - Sufficiency Program established under section 1148 of such Act, to advise on phase-in of, and access to the Program; research and demonstration projects; quality assurance performance measurements; and other things,

We, the members of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel affirm the principles of:

HUMAN RIGHTS
Each and every human being should have the opportunity to lead a full and productive life.

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
Work is an integral part of a full and productive life from which people can derive satisfaction and self-worth.

BROAD-BASED ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES
Free and open markets are the best way to stimulate the country's economy and the quality of service.

SELF-DETERMINATION AND CONSUMER CHOICE Individuals with disabilities enrolled or who will be enrolled in The Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program and other work incentive programs can best determine for themselves the service providers they use.

Adopted by vote of the Panel on the 9th of January 2001.

Operating Procedures

Section I: Purpose:

The purpose of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel (Panel) is to advise the President, Congress, and Commissioner of Social Security on issues related to work incentives programs, planning, and assistance for individuals with disabilities, including work incentive provisions under titles II, XI, XVI, XVIII, and XIX of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 401 et seq., 1301 et seq., 1381 et seq., 1395 et seq., 1396 et seq.); and with respect to the Ticket to Work and Self - Sufficiency Program established under section 1148 of such Act-

(i) advise the Commissioner of Social Security with respect to establishing phase-in sites for such Program and fully implementing the Program thereafter, the refinement of access of beneficiaries with disabilities to employment networks, payment systems, and management information systems, and advise the Commissioner whether such measures are being taken to the extent necessary to ensure the success of the Program;

(ii) advise the Commissioner regarding the most effective designs for research and demonstration projects associated with the Program or conducted pursuant to section 302 of this Act;

(iii) advise the Commissioner on the development of performance measurements relating to quality assurance under section 1148(d)(6) of the Social Security Act; and

(iv) furnish progress reports on the Program to the Commissioner, the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Section II: Authority

The Congress has determined that the establishment of the Panel is in the public interest. The Panel is subject to the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), as outlined in its Charter, filed with the Library of Congress on March 21, 2000.

Section III: Membership Selection and Appointment

Membership selection and appointment of panel members shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act (TWWIIA) as outlined in its charter.

Section IV: Member Responsibilities

Membership includes the responsibility to attend Panel meetings personally and complete assigned tasks. The members shall abide by all applicable Federal laws and regulations including the provisions of TWWIIA, FACA, the Panel's charter and these operating procedures.

Section IV: Meeting Procedures

The regularly scheduled meetings of the Advisory Panel shall be the each Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of the first full week, of the second month, of each Federal fiscal quarter. Special meetings will be called by the Chairperson or a majority of Panel Members in consultation with the Designated Federal Official (DFO). All meetings will be held according to the following considerations:

A. Quorum: Eight members of the Panel shall constitute a quorum for transaction of business at any meeting.

B. Agenda: The agenda will be established by the Chairperson, in consultation with the Executive Director and the designate DFO. Any member of the Panel may submit items to be included on the agenda to the Chairperson or Executive Director. Non-members, including members of the public, may also suggest items. Each agenda will specify whether public comment will be accepted and, if so, the length of time allotted for such comment. The agenda will be provided to each Panel member prior to each meeting and will be published with the notice of the meeting in the Federal Register.

C. Minutes and Records: The Panel's DFO will be responsible for final review and FACA approval of the minutes of each meeting. The Panel staff with the support of a contractor and transcription will prepare the minutes for draft distribution to the Panel members. Final minutes will be approved and distributed to each Panel member within 30 days of a meeting. Minutes of public meetings will be available to the public upon request and will be posted on the Panel's web site. Minutes of closed meetings will also be available to the public upon request, subject to the withholding of matters about which public disclosure would be harmful to the interests of the Government, industry, or others, and which are exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The minutes will include a record of the persons present (including the names of Panel members, staff, members of the public who provide written or oral presentations were made, and persons who provide briefings, reports or other requested information), a complete and accurate description of the matters discussed and conclusions reached and copies of all reports received, issued or approved by the Panel.

All documents, reports, or other materials prepared by, or for, the Panel constitute official government records and shall be maintained according to Panel policies and procedures and FACA.

D. Open Meetings. Unless otherwise determined in advance, all meetings of the Panel will be open to the public. All materials brought before, or presented to, the Panel during the conduct of an open meeting, including the minutes of the proceedings of a prior open meeting, will be available to the public for review or copying at the time of the scheduled meeting.

Members of the public may attend any meeting or portion of a meeting that is not closed to the public and may, at the discretion of the Chairperson, offer oral comment at such meetings. The Chairperson may decide in advance to exclude oral public comment during a meeting, in which case the meeting announcement published in the Federal Register will note that oral comment from the public is excluded and will invite written comment as an alternative. Members of the public may submit written statements to the Panel at any time.

E. Closed Meetings: Meetings of the Panel will be closed only in limited circumstances and in accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations, 41CFR101-6.1001-1035, and the US Code 5 USC 552b. Where the DFO has determined in advance that discussions during a Panel meeting will involve matters about which public disclosure would be harmful to the interests of the Government, industry or others, an advance notice of a closed meeting, citing the applicable exemptions of Government in the Sunshine Act, 5 USC 552b, will be published in the Federal Register. The notice may announce the closing of all or just part of the meeting. If, during the course of an open meeting, matters inappropriate for public disclosure arise during discussions, the DFO will order such discussion to cease and will schedule it for closed session. Notices of closed meetings will be published in the Federal Register at least 15 calendar days in advance.

Section V: Voting

A. Voting Procedures: When a decision or recommendation of the Panel is required, the Chairperson will request a motion for a vote. Any member, including the Chairperson, may make a motion for a vote. A motion for a vote requires a second to bring the issue to a vote. Voting will be conducted by calling the roll and allowing the Panel Member to state yea, nay, or abstention. At the discretion of the Chairperson, a roll call vote may be dispensed with. Each member shall have one vote. The votes of a majority of the Panel present and voting shall be necessary for adoption by the Panel of any action.

B. Absentee Voting: A member of the Panel who is absent from a meeting of the Panel may vote at the meeting if the member provides a written indication to the Chairperson of his or her vote on specific matters prior to the meeting. A member who is absent from a meeting may also give consent to, or register dissent from, any action adopted by the Panel at the meeting if the member provides notice of consent or dissent with the Chairperson of the Panel within five days of the meeting.

Section VI: Role of Chairperson

The Chairperson shall appoint the Executive Director of the Panel in accordance with applicable personnel rules, and FACA. The Chairperson shall work with the Executive Director to establish priorities and identify issues to be addressed by the Panel, preside at all meetings, conduct all meetings in accordance with these operating procedures and take such action as necessary for the effective functioning of the Panel.

The Chairperson, at the direction of 75% of the panel members, (9 members), may notify the Commissioner of Social Security and the appointing authority of a member's failure to attend two meetings without good cause or the repeated failure to participate in Panel activities. For the purposes of this rule, a meeting is defined as an exchange of ideas to further the mission of the Panel for which an agenda is provided. A meeting may occur face-to-face or through teleconferencing and video-conferencing. Although orientations, briefings and training events are not official meetings, Panel members are expected to participate in such events to the maximum extent possible. The appointing party has the ability to replace any member who is unable to fully participate in Panel meetings or complete assigned tasks.

Section VII: Absence of the Chairperson

In the event of the absence of the Chairperson at a public meeting, the meeting shall be called to order by the DFO. The members of the Panel present will then select a member from amongst themselves to serve as chair for the duration of the meeting.

Section VIII: Committees

The Panel shall have such standing Committees, as the Panel members deem appropriate and necessary but shall include at a minimum Evaluation, Finance, and Operations Committees. The Chairperson of the Panel shall appoint the Chairperson of each committee. As deemed necessary, the Chairperson of the Panel may convene other committees and workgroups as needed to support the Panel's functions. All activities of Panel's committees and workgroups shall be in compliance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA).

A. Evaluation Committee: The Evaluation Committee shall review quarterly statistical data provided by SSA, prepare reports for approval by the Panel and oversee the preparation and submission of the annual report.

B. Finance Committee: The Finance Committee shall work with the Executive Director to review the annual budget, monitor financial statements, review and make recommendations regarding the expenditures and approve or modify recommendations for revisions to the budget during the fiscal year.

C. Operations Committee: The Operations Committee shall prepare an annual plan, review the quarterly activities of the Panel and provide input to the Evaluation Committee on the annual report and to the Budget Committee on the allocation of resources.

Section IX: Representing the Panel

As a general rule, the Chairperson will speak to internal governmental and outside public and private entities on behalf of the Panel. Individual Panel members are not authorized to speak to outside public or private entities, White House officials, Congressional offices or Congressional staff without the express approval of either, a quorum of the Panel or at the direction of the Panel Chairperson.

Section X: Amendments to Operating Procedures

These operating procedures may be amended at any meeting of the Panel if approved by at least 9 Members of the Panel, provided that a copy of the operating procedures to be amended and the proposed amendments are provided to the Panel members in advance of the meeting.

Adopted by vote of the Panel on the 9th of January 2001.

Chronology of Year One

December 17, 1999 to December 16, 2000

December 17, 1999
President Clinton signed Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, Public Law 106-170, creating the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel.

December 2000
SSA OESP provided interim staff for Panel.

December to March 2000
SSA processed names of potential interested candidates for the White House Office of Presidential Personnel.

February 2000
Regina Sajauskas named Designated Federal Officer (DFO).

February 2000
OESP submitted proposed FFY '01 budget on behalf of Panel.

March 17, 2000
Statutory deadline for creation of Panel in Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, Public Law 106-170.

March 21, 2000
Charter to create the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel submitted to congressional committees of oversight and the General Services Administration.

May 3, 2000
Senate appointed Richard Burkhauser, Christine Griffin, Larry Henderson, Stephanie Lee.

May 2000
House of Representatives appointed Frances Gracechild, Jerome Kleckley, Steve Start, Susan Webb.

May 2000
House and Senate appointees vetting process begun by SSA Office of General Counsel.

June 2000
Information about Panel posted on the OESP Web site at www.socialsecurity.gov/work/resources/toolkit.

June 7, 2000
White House appointed Thomas Golden, Bryon MacDonald, Sarah Mitchell. President named Mitchell as Chair.

July 6, 2000
Panel staff conducted briefing session for Chair of Panel in Washington, DC.

July 24, 2000
Panel members briefed on ethics and administrative requirements from SSA's Office of General Counsel, Personnel, Travel and Federal Advisory Committee Act Officer at meeting in Alexandria, VA.

July 24, 2000
Panel sworn in by the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration in Alexandria, VA.

July 24, 2000
Opening ceremonies of Panel meeting broadcast live on Web.

July 24 to 25, 2000
Panel held organizational meeting in Arlington, VA.

July 25, 2000
During meeting, Panel makes two formal recommendations to SSA Deputy Commissioner Susan M. Daniels. 1.) Make tickets to work available to all beneficiaries and 2.) Use longest comment periods possible during regulatory process.

August 1, 2000
Chair briefed on organizational and administrative requirements by Panel staff in Washington, DC.

August 4, 2000
Chair named Marie P. Strahan as Acting Executive Director of Panel staff.

August 22, 2000
Panel briefed on regulatory development by OESP staff via teleconference.

August 24 to 25, 2000
Acting Executive Director orientation conducted by Panel staff.

August 2000
Executive Director hired Kristen M. Breland as administrative support staff.

August 30, 2000
Briefing session on SSA Work Incentives conducted for Panel by OESP staff via teleconference.

September 1, 2000
Deborah Morrison named as new DFO.

September 11, 2000
Panel held deliberative public teleconference.

September 21, 2000 [CHECK DATE]
Panel Chair sent advice memo on roll out states to SSA Commissioner.

Sept 26 - 27, 2000
Panel orientation and briefing held by congressional staff, SSA and HCFA in Alexandria, VA.

July to December 2000
Panel work groups met extensively on implementation of Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act by teleconference.

October 30, 2000 [CHECK DATE]
Panel proposes consultation and advice process to SSA and HCFA.

November 8, 2000
Panel held public deliberative teleconference.

November 9, 2000
White House appointed its 4th and the 12th Panel member, Kristin E. Flaten.

November 13 - 15, 2000
Quarterly meeting of Panel with public testimony held in Chevy Chase, MD.

November 27, 2000
Panel held public deliberative teleconference.

December 12, 2000
Panel held public deliberative teleconference.

Official Correspondence from the Panel

1. Mitchell letter to Commissioner, 8-4-00

2. Burkhauser memo on State selection for roll-out, 9-21-00

3. Mitchell memo to Commissioner on consultation and advice process with SSA, 10-30-00

4. Mitchell letter to Hamilton on consultation and advice process with HCFA, 10-30-00

1. Draft of August 8, 2000 Mitchell Letter inserted for placeholder

Honorable Kenneth S. Apfel
Social Security Administration
500 E Street, SW, Suite 850
Washington, DC 20254

Dear Commissioner Apfel:

On behalf of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel, I am writing to acknowledge the contributions of the Social Security Administration staff toward the success of our first Panel meeting. Thank you for your recognition of the Panel as a valued working partner of the SSA.

The Panel is deeply appreciative of the work and support of all the SSA staff in our debut as a Panel. Their hard work was evident throughout our meeting and deserves both our recognition and sincere thanks, especially in light of the short time they had to organize and bring off the meeting. The Panel's orientation and ability to move through the agenda was in no small way attributable to the staff's work.

The Panel noted with pleasure both your presence and your comments at our meeting, especially your recognition of the need to change the climate of SSA to a "work-based focus". And we appreciated your comments on the important role the Panel can and must play in ensuring that the Ticket to Work/Work Incentives legislation, the most important legislation for people with disabilities since the Americans with Disabilities Act, is more than a paper tiger and is indeed implemented successfully.

We recognize that the challenges before us and the work are great, but we are committed to being, with your support, a truly working partner of the SSA. We are, therefore, especially appreciative of your support in ensuring that the Panel has the opportunity for meaningful participation and input now as well as throughout the implementation of the legislation. Through no fault of SSA or the Panel, the delayed convening of the Panel has created some need to be flexible in providing for the Panel's immediate input without delaying the implementation process itself. We commend your efforts in this regard. And beyond the exigencies of current circumstances, we certainly welcome the opportunity of working with you and the SSA staff to create a process for ensuring the Panel's participation and input as issues and policies related to implementation are discussed and developed.

Again we thank you for your support and look forward to a long and productive relationship with you and the SSA staff and are confident that together, and with the larger disability community, TWWIIA can be what we all have worked and hoped for.

Sincerely,

             Sarah W. Mitchell, Chair
                               Ticket to Work and Work Incentives
Advisory Panel

2. DRAFT of Burkhauser 9-21-00 Memo inserted as placeholder

Comments on the Process Used to Select States for the Ticket to Work
Prepared by Richard V. Burkhauser on behalf of the Panel

    Based on a compromise worked out between our chair Sarah Mitchell and Dr. Daniels and Ken McGill of the Social Security Administration, our panel was sent additional sensitive information regarding the process of selection of the first year TWWIIA roll-out states but not the roll-out states for years two or three. In addition, I had a very valuable conversation with members of the Office of Policy Evaluation based on their initial memo to our panel for our September 11, 2000 meeting and my initial reaction to that memo.
    Under the very tight time line which our panel has been asked to work under, I am impressed with the amount of information we have been able to see and with the degree of discussion I have been able to have with the OPE folks. Hence, I believe I have seen enough information to provide you with my preliminary response to the materials I was permitted to review. I continue, however, to be disappointed that our panel was not able to deliberate on this matter, especially since I continue to have unresolved concerns about the methods used to choose the first year roll out states as well as how well these states will match the third year roll out states for purposes of evaluation.
    I continue to hope that an alternative method of choosing a matched pair of year one and year three states can be used within a time line that could lead to an awarding of the Program Manager's contract with FY2000 monies.

Specific Comments
     I is delighted with the commitment of the Office of Policy Evaluation to develop a roll out plan that will allow SSA to carry out a scientifically based evaluation of the effect of the Ticket to Work on exits from SSDI and SSI that will satisfy the requirement in the law for such an evaluation.
    I am also well aware of the need to perform such an evaluation within the practical limits implied by the fact that the Ticket to Work is being fully implemented over a three-year horizon. Nonetheless, I believe a valid evaluation is possible that will allow SSA to measure the marginal effects of the Ticket to Work across a range of outcomes.
    In my view it is critical that within the constraints discussed in the memo of 9/8/2000 from the Office of Policy Evaluation, the "control" group (the states selected for year three) be as close in characteristics to the experimental group (the states selected for year one) as possible. This suggests that two matched set of states be selected each of which satisfies the seven practical considerations discussed in the memo. I would then urge that the actual choice of which matched set of states is selected to go first be based on a random draw.
    In principle, one could use the same method to choose the two matched sets of states that was used to choose the year one states. However, I would urge consideration of the following changes.

1. Use of the SSD method
A) The statistical calculations used to advise the expert selection involve 12 characteristics selected by experts and the following similarity measure: the sum over the 12 characteristics of (c(i) - C(i))2, where c(i) is the average for the selected states and C(i) is the average for the nation as a whole. I believe that this is not the best way to do this; in particular, the difference (c(i) - C(-i))2, where C(-i) is the average of all states in the nation not in the group defining c(i), is more appropriate, to avoid correlations induced by states in both, which statistically guarantees that the correlation rises as the size of ci grows. In other words, the measure used is a function of size of sample as well as comparability, and that is not its intended purpose.
B) Why are all of the components weighted equally? That is, why do you impose a priori that all of the 12 characteristics are equally important? I suggest a principal components analysis to choose the weights. This requires a discussion of the ways of standardizing the measures. One can use the data in their original form, but then the measures with the largest variance or scale tend to dominate. Using the values standardized by the mean (which is what the proposed analysis does, based on the e-mail of 9/15/2000 from the Office of Policy Evaluation) emphasizes those measures with a large coefficient of variation (standard deviation divided by the mean). Principle components analysis (and cluster analysis, used later) standardizes all variables by subtracting the mean and dividing by the standard deviation so that all variables contribute equally to the variance of the overall measure regardless of their original scale or whether the variables are always positive, always negative, or sometimes positive and sometimes negative. The ability of the different measures to differentiate between states is not pre-judged, however; the weighted average is selected to maximize that, taking into account correlations among variables.
    In the final analysis, one weighted average is used in the analysis here, so I would suggest using only the first principle component. Using that weighted average then differentiates among states as well as possible, so similarity measures are not artificially lowered by using a less discriminating weighted average.

2. Using your SSD values you can find the optimal sets of states to obtain similar bundles.
    By minimizing this statistical measure you get the optimal distribution of states across the bundles. Cluster analysis is used to compare the proposed sets of states used in the substitutions. This seems sensible and is consistent with my point above that you want to compare year 1 states with all other states. It also standardizes the component characteristics to have mean 0 and variance
1. But I would be a bit more humble about what you do next and admit that in the end this is a "rule of thumb" that will not stand up to close examination from a scientific standpoint. The fact of the matter is that your rule of thumb method of choosing states that don't move the SSD very far away from the optimal mix is just that. To maintain the ordinal ranking of outcomes that you use as your measure of "correctness" you need to assume that the choices that you make in switching around the states do not affect the order of best outcomes. I don't believe you have any evidence that this is the case. It is not clear that your appeal to statistics is totally convincing here.
     I urge that you go to a strategy of two matched sets of states, one to be rolled out in year one and the other to be rolled out in year three, with a bit of randomness included at the end with respect to which of the two matched pairs of states is first and which is last included to provide an important safeguard to the scientific basis of your selection process.

3. Draft of memo to Commissioner inserted as placeholder, Colleagues ltr v2

Dear SSA/HCFA Colleagues:

The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel (the Panel) is committed to providing sound public policy input and recommendations to the President, Congress, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA) and to the Health Care Financing Administration on the implementation of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act (TWWIIA). The Panel believes that the caliber of our input and recommendations is dependent on the extent and quality of the Panel's communications with you and, to the extent possible, the opportunities for input into the program and policy development process. This would include implementation planning, policy analysis, operations, rollout activities, grants and contracts, and research and evaluation. To assist us in fulfilling our respective mandates under P.L.106-170, I am recommending that the Panel staff work with the relevant SSA/HCFA program and policy officials to initiate several work methods and processes.

Quarterly Update - The Panel would like to request that the respective Agency provide the Panel with a quarterly written update summarizing the specific TWWIIA implementation activities in SSA or HCFA at the end of each quarter. It could include, a progress report on on-going operations initiatives, grant awards, contractual agreements, cooperative agreements, etc. that support implementation. It could also include key findings of research, evaluations and other studies and an update on statistics and relevant statistical analysis that would assist the Panel in understanding the projected and actual impact of implementation. Pertinent parts of the Agency strategic plans, budgetary plan and program concerns could also be shared. These Updates would be public documents available to the public at every quarterly meeting and would be provided in addition to any oral presentations from agency officials. The Panel staff would need to receive them electronically as well as in writing several weeks prior to the Panels meetings so the materials could be converted to accessible formats.

Policy Input and Access to Policy Documents - The Panel requests that in future implementation work, the respective Agency in collaboration with the Panel staff devise methods within the constraints of the Panel and the agency for the Panel members to have up-front information and input into the policy development process, prior to decision-making and document drafting. This could include having briefings on substantive policy issues, background statistic and national reports and evaluations that inform the policy-makers prior to policy development. This would enable the Panel to provide appropriate and timely input into the policy-making process, prior to agency deliberation and decision-making. The goal is to have the Panel members work hand-in-hand with agency policy officials prior to drafting. This would provide the agencies with the opportunity to utilize the expertise of the Panel members with their external perspectives. It seems counter-productive to include the Panel members in the policy process after all of the decisions are made and after months of in-house research, analysis, discussion, decision-making and drafting.

Timely Notification - The Panel requests an electronic copy be provided to the Panel staff at same time the agency staff is informed of announcements and new policy documents that are being made public. This would provide the Panel with timely and immediate knowledge which would enable them to respond in an expeditious manner and decrease the potential for misunderstanding.

Written direction. It would greatly assist the Panel if the agencies would provide the Panel with a periodic inventory (perhaps quarterly) of the specific policy, program and operations issues you would like the Panel to address, as well as and a timeframe for providing advice and assistance to the Agency on those issues. This would greatly assist the Panel staff in planning necessary work and preparing the agendas.

Regular Meetings with Panel Staff -- The Panel is requesting regular meetings, at least quarterly, between SSA and HCFA program and policy officials and Panel executive staff on how the Panel can best advise and assist in TWWIIA implementation. We also believe this will greatly enhance the communications between us and develop methodology that will make all of our jobs simpler.

Feedback -- The Panel is asking to receive regular and timely feedback in writing from the appropriate Agency officials on any formal/written input and recommendations to the respective agencies; i.e. policy letters, policy recommendations, topic specific reports, implementation recommendations, annual reports, etc. This kind of feedback is essential to evaluating the effectiveness of the Panel's feedback/input and the quality of the Panel's work. The Panel recently provided OESP with a compilation of comments and suggestions on the selection of the Ticket rollout states. It is important that Panel members know what happened to their recommendations and receive some feedback on how their concerns were addressed in the final selection of the rollout states.

Theda Zawaiza and Tamara Allen will serve as the Panel's lead on developing methods and processes for working with the various agency offices and their staff. They are available to you to discuss your ideas about work methods, to develop an outline for the Summary Update, to set a schedule of meetings, to come up with alternative methods and to answer any questions you may have regarding these requests. The Panel believes the practical and programmatic benefit of establishing a method of working together will quickly accrue to both the Panel and the Agency.

The Panel members and staff are deeply committed to our collective task of helping more Americans with disabilities realize the promise of employment. We look forward to a close and productive working relationship with our SSA and HCFA colleagues in the implementation of these exciting new programs.

Sincerely,

Sarah Wiggins Mitchell, Chair

CC: Marie Strahan, Executive Director
Theda Zawaiza
Tamara Allen

4. Draft letter to Hamilton at HCFA inserted as placeholder, Colleagues ltr v2

Dear SSA/HCFA Colleagues:

The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel (the Panel) is committed to providing sound public policy input and recommendations to the President, Congress, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA) and to the Health Care Financing Administration on the implementation of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act (TWWIIA). The Panel believes that the caliber of our input and recommendations is dependent on the extent and quality of the Panel's communications with you and, to the extent possible, the opportunities for input into the program and policy development process. This would include implementation planning, policy analysis, operations, rollout activities, grants and contracts, and research and evaluation. To assist us in fulfilling our respective mandates under P.L.106-170, I am recommending that the Panel staff work with the relevant SSA/HCFA program and policy officials to initiate several work methods and processes.

Quarterly Update - The Panel would like to request that the respective Agency provide the Panel with a quarterly written update summarizing the specific TWWIIA implementation activities in SSA or HCFA at the end of each quarter. It could include, a progress report on on-going operations initiatives, grant awards, contractual agreements, cooperative agreements, etc. that support implementation. It could also include key findings of research, evaluations and other studies and an update on statistics and relevant statistical analysis that would assist the Panel in understanding the projected and actual impact of implementation. Pertinent parts of the Agency strategic plans, budgetary plan and program concerns could also be shared. These Updates would be public documents available to the public at every quarterly meeting and would be provided in addition to any oral presentations from agency officials. The Panel staff would need to receive them electronically as well as in writing several weeks prior to the Panels meetings so the materials could be converted to accessible formats.

Policy Input and Access to Policy Documents - The Panel requests that in future implementation work, the respective Agency in collaboration with the Panel staff devise methods within the constraints of the Panel and the agency for the Panel members to have up-front information and input into the policy development process, prior to decision-making and document drafting. This could include having briefings on substantive policy issues, background statistic and national reports and evaluations that inform the policy-makers prior to policy development. This would enable the Panel to provide appropriate and timely input into the policy-making process, prior to agency deliberation and decision-making. The goal is to have the Panel members work hand-in-hand with agency policy officials prior to drafting. This would provide the agencies with the opportunity to utilize the expertise of the Panel members with their external perspectives. It seems counter-productive to include the Panel members in the policy process after all of the decisions are made and after months of in-house research, analysis, discussion, decision-making and drafting.

Timely Notification - The Panel requests an electronic copy be provided to the Panel staff at same time the agency staff is informed of announcements and new policy documents that are being made public. This would provide the Panel with timely and immediate knowledge which would enable them to respond in an expeditious manner and decrease the potential for misunderstanding.

Written direction. It would greatly assist the Panel if the agencies would provide the Panel with a periodic inventory (perhaps quarterly) of the specific policy, program and operations issues you would like the Panel to address, as well as and a timeframe for providing advice and assistance to the Agency on those issues. This would greatly assist the Panel staff in planning necessary work and preparing the agendas.

Regular Meetings with Panel Staff -- The Panel is requesting regular meetings, at least quarterly, between SSA and HCFA program and policy officials and Panel executive staff on how the Panel can best advise and assist in TWWIIA implementation. We also believe this will greatly enhance the communications between us and develop methodology that will make all of our jobs simpler.

Feedback -- The Panel is asking to receive regular and timely feedback in writing from the appropriate Agency officials on any formal/written input and recommendations to the respective agencies; i.e. policy letters, policy recommendations, topic specific reports, implementation recommendations, annual reports, etc. This kind of feedback is essential to evaluating the effectiveness of the Panel's feedback/input and the quality of the Panel's work. The Panel recently provided OESP with a compilation of comments and suggestions on the selection of the Ticket rollout states. It is important that Panel members know what happened to their recommendations and receive some feedback on how their concerns were addressed in the final selection of the rollout states.

Theda Zawaiza and Tamara Allen will serve as the Panel's lead on developing methods and processes for working with the various agency offices and their staff. They are available to you to discuss your ideas about work methods, to develop an outline for the Summary Update, to set a schedule of meetings, to come up with alternative methods and to answer any questions you may have regarding these requests. The Panel believes the practical and programmatic benefit of establishing a method of working together will quickly accrue to both the Panel and the Agency.

The Panel members and staff are deeply committed to our collective task of helping more Americans with disabilities realize the promise of employment. We look forward to a close and productive working relationship with our SSA and HCFA colleagues in the implementation of these exciting new programs.

Sincerely,

Sarah Wiggins Mitchell, Chair

CC: Marie Strahan, Executive Director
Theda Zawaiza
Tamara Allen

Contact Information

  Anyone requiring materials in alternative formats, information regarding this document or the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel should contact the Panel staff. Records are kept of all Panel proceedings and are available for public inspection under the Federal Advisory Committee Act by appointment at the Panel office.

Anyone requiring information may contact the Panel staff.

Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel
Social Security Administration
400 Virginia Avenue, SW, Suite 700
Washington, DC, 20024.

Phone at (202) 358-6430

Fax at (202) 358-6440

E-mail to TWWIIAPanel@ssa.gov.

Advisory Panel Staff

Marie Parker Strahan, Executive Director
Kristen Breland
Lisa Ekman
Mildred Owens
Gordon Richmond Ilene Zeitzer

Tamara Allen, Consultant
Theda Zawaiza, Ph.D., Consultant