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Meet The Team
ISAIAH SWANN
President & CO-FOUNDER
Isaiah Swann, a man of many talents and a heart full of passion for autism advocacy, was born in San Diego, California, and raised in Gaithersburg, Maryland, where he began to make his mark as a nationally ranked high school basketball phenom. His exceptional talent on the court caught the attention of colleges across the nation, but it was Florida State University that won his commitment. At Florida State, Isaiah not only honed his skills on the court but also met his future wife, Laci. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in social sciences; post-graduation, Isaiah embarked on a 14-year professional basketball career in Europe, showcasing his prowess on an international stage. His dedication and skill were admired by many, further solidifying his reputation as a remarkable athlete. Upon retirement, Isaiah transitioned from player to coach, taking up the role of assistant coach for the Utah Jazz’s G-League team, the Salt Lake Stars. His experience and knowledge became invaluable assets, shaping the next generation of basketball players. In 2023, Isaiah made a significant career shift to focus on a cause close to his heart. He stepped away from coaching to dedicate his time and energy to the Little Boy Blue Foundation. As the founder, Isaiah focuses on community partnerships and programming, aiming to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Isaiah’s patient temperament, zeal for life, and passion for advocacy shine through in every event he conceptualizes and plans. As a proud husband and father of three, his journey from professional athlete to coach and now a philanthropist is a testament to his unwavering dedication to family, community, and autism advocacy.
LACI SWANN
VICE PRESIDENT & CO-FOUNDER
Laci Swann was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but her formative years were spent in Naples, Florida. At the tender age of 17, she embarked on her academic journey at Florida State University, earning both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in English Literature. Her thirst for knowledge led her to George Washington University, where she obtained a second Master’s degree, this time in Publishing. In 2013, Laci married her college sweetheart, Isaiah, and moved overseas to support his basketball career. This international experience provided her with a unique perspective and inspired her to open Sharp Editorial in 2016. Today, Sharp Editorial is an award-winning boutique agency specializing in editorial, design, and consulting services. Upon Isaiah’s retirement in 2019, Laci returned to her alma mater, Florida State University, to pursue a PhD in the Culture, Literature, and Media program. Currently a PhD candidate, Laci continues to balance her professional endeavors with her academic pursuits. Family and education are the cornerstones of Laci’s life. She uses her exceptional writing skills and creative thinking to not only elevate client projects but also to drive programming and awareness for autism.
ALEXIS RUSSELL
Non-Profit Operations and Social Media Specialist
With a rich diversity of professional experiences and a vibrant personal life, Alexis has cultivated a diverse and fulfilling career path. Hailing from Phoenix, Arizona, Alexis graduated from Grand Canyon University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and is Arizona-certified in Special Education and ESL. Her brother, who has autism, inspired her to become a teacher, fueling her passion for diversifying education based on the individual needs of each student rather than adhering to a standard. For the past ten years, Alexis has been dedicated to teaching, with a significant portion of her career marked by a passionate commitment to teaching ESL. During her five years in this role, she not only educated but also enriched the lives of her students through the power of language. Additionally, Alexis is actively writing curriculum for homeschooled preschool and kindergartners, contributing her expertise to support early childhood education. Today, Alexis has embraced the digital age as a full-time social media manager and content creator. She recently started working with small companies to help them build impactful social media strategies that align with and amplify their core messages. This role allows her to combine her creative talents with a strategic mindset, crafting engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences across various platforms. Beyond her professional endeavors, family plays a central role in Alexis' life. She is a devoted mother to a 3-year-old daughter and is married to her college sweetheart, who plays professional basketball in Europe. Together, they enjoy exploring the great outdoors, indulging in the joy of cooking, and traveling the world, making lasting memories. Alexis’ journey is a testament to the power of embracing change, pursuing passions, and balancing the demands of a dynamic career with the joys of family life. With every step, she continues to inspire and make a meaningful impact both online and in the personal sphere.