OUR TEAM

Rich Serapilio - A.S. Human Services, B.Sc. Social Sciences, M.Ed. Childhood Education, Saint John Fisher University.

NYS, FL, Certified Teacher

Founder & Chief Operating Officer: Blue Heron Collective

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Rich Serapilio is the Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Blue Heron Collective, bringing over 20 years of experience in education, youth programming, and community development. A certified teacher in New York and Florida, Rich holds a Master’s degree in Childhood Education from Saint John Fisher University, along with degrees in Social Sciences and Human Services.

Throughout his career, Rich has led large-scale youth programs and inclusive community initiatives, designing innovative STEM experiences and organizing impactful public events that empower individuals of all abilities. His work is deeply rooted in creating supportive, acceptance-driven environments where young people can grow, build skills, and discover their potential.

Driven by both professional expertise and personal connection, Rich founded Blue Heron Collective to meet the growing needs of neurodiverse individuals and their families. His mission is to create a community-centered space where everyone has the opportunity to thrive through meaningful employment, life skills development, and inclusive programming.

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​Maggie Serapilio - B.Sc. Psychology, M.Ed. Instructional Technology, D.E.I Certified, Cornell University.

NYS Certified Teacher

Founder & Chief Executive Office: Blue Heron Collective

 

​Maggie Serapilio is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Heron Collective, a New York State certified teacher with a background in psychology and instructional technology, and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion certification from Cornell University.

With over 15 years of personal and professional experience in the autism community, Maggie’s journey began as a mother advocating for her two sons, both diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at a young age. What started as a search for support quickly became a lifelong mission — not to change her children, but to help the world better understand, accept, and support neurodiverse individuals.

Maggie has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between traditional systems and the real needs of the neurodiverse community. Her work is rooted in advocacy, education, and empowerment, with a focus on helping individuals be seen and valued for their unique strengths.

 

Today, through Blue Heron Collective, Maggie has created more than a program — she’s built a community and a movement where neurodiverse individuals are supported, included, and celebrated for exactly who they are.

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