Robert Johnston

Robert Johnston is a longtime leading advocate within the disability and Autism communities. Following a traumatic pedestrian accident leaving him pinned between two cars, Robert underwent dozens of surgeries and decades of rehabilitation to be able to use his legs and lead an active lifestyle. He understands the challenges faced by those with physical disabilities, and expanded his advocacy for disability rights when his son was diagnosed with Autism. Robert is a past president of the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin, a representative of the Governor’s Council on Autism, a member of the Board of Directors of The Ability Center, founder of the Community Resource Network and a member of the Academy of Special Needs Planners. Additionally, him and his wife, invented a “buoyant assistive device” for the learn-to-swim market, to address water safety as drowning is the leading cause of death for individuals with Autism.