NORWALK, Conn. — Democratic candidate and long-term Norwalk resident Dana Nellie Cole recently made history as the first openly autistic person to be elected to the Norwalk Board of Education. With 9,741 votes, Cole’s win marks a groundbreaking moment for disability representation in local government.
For longtime Norwalk residents, Cole’s name might sound familiar. Her father was a well-known figure in local politics, having served for many years on both the Zoning Commission and the Board of Education. While his legacy played a role in inspiring her run, one of Nellie’s biggest motivations stems from her own identity as someone who is autistic and has ADHD.
Growing up in the 1990s, it was uncommon for girls and women to be diagnosed with autism. As a result, Cole was never able to receive an Individualized Plan (IP), which is often crucial for providing comprehensive support and services to individuals with autism and their families. Without that guidance, Nellie had to navigate many challenges on her own.
During COVID, one of Cole’s friends suggested she visit the disability services for her longtime struggle with taking tests. With that little push of encouragement, Cole advocated for herself and finally received the accommodations she had been lacking for many years.
It took Cole 20 years to achieve her bachelor’s degree, but because of her self-advocacy, she was finally able to not only graduate with her bachelor’s but also graduate cum laude from the University of Connecticut.
“Knowing what I have gone through not only as a member of the disabled community but also the queer community, I feel as though I must be there for those that have trouble finding their own voice. Right now, there’s a target on the back of the most vulnerable amongst us and if I can advocate for them then that is why I want to do this.”
Board of Education Elect Dana Nellie Cole
“In the past several election cycles, there have been several members of the queer community, so I would be extending that,” explained Cole. “But also, being a member of the disabled community and someone who’s had firsthand experience dealing with the struggles of various learning disabilities, I can offer different perspectives.”
“There’s a lot of overlap in disabled and LGBTQ communities,” explained Cole. “They’re made to think that being different makes them less than. They deserve an adult who will meet them at their level and let them know that it’s okay, whatever their struggles are.”
Cole believes it is important to remember not only the kids with much higher needs, but also those who need just a little bit of help. “It’s making sure we have equity and education,” she explained.
“Not every kid is going to have the same challenges, but it’s making sure we meet their needs as they come. Disability is very out of sight, out of mind, so that’s why I believe it’s important to have that voice on the board of education.”
Norwalk educator and parent Jennifer Burkhalter has known Cole for over 20 years and believes she will offer a new perspective and a lot of value to the board. Having met in middle school and participated in both the youth orchestra and the string quartet together, Burkhalter is familiar with Cole’s background and history.
“I think it’s inspiring for both neurodivergent and neurotypical people to see that she has her platform and will raise awareness,” Burkhalter said. “My son has autism, so for me personally it’s awesome to see someone step up and advocate through her own lens of being an autistic person.”
“She’s going to do a great job advocating for disabled students and will help bring a lot of awareness to the board, as well as the importance of art classes and all the things that students will need to be successful later on,” she said.
Cole’s biggest priority in running is being there for the kids, especially those who don’t have a voice.
“It is my determination and my pledge to be that voice for them. I will fight for them because I know what it’s like to need an adult that fights for you.”
Board of Education Elect Dana Nellie Cole
Bernie Vaginini, who has known Cole for a little over a year, is a teacher specializing in working with students with autism and is enthusiastic about Cole’s election.
“I work with autistic children, and I know that there is a lot of work that needs to be done within the school system, even just raising awareness a little more and inclusivity,” explained Vaginini. “I’m seeing in the public schools that there is a little separation between students with autism and disabilities and the general student population, and there needs to be more mediation between the two and the ability to notice differences.”
Vaginini describes Cole as a person who is incredibly dedicated when she puts her mind to something. “I’ve seen her work so hard for this position, and she will follow through on anything she has signed up for. If people are counting on her, she will always be there for them.
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