Move to government 'bittersweet' for Autism Nova Scotia executive director

The executive director of Autism Nova Scotia has let her staff know she is leaving the non-profit to take on a senior position within the Houston government.

Cynthia Carroll's departure comes just days after Autism Nova Scotia and the province announced their collaboration on Nova Scotia's first autism action plan.

Carroll will be the Department of Community Service's next associate deputy minister. She will replace Cathy MacIsaac, who is retiring at the end of May.

"It's a little bit of a bittersweet moment for me," Carroll said Friday, after the cabinet order making the change official was posted to the government web page. "I'm excited to join the team at Community Services.

"The timing lined up as it did, but I do feel that ... my transition into government will still be a positive transition for the [autism] community."

Although a record of the decision was posted this week, the recommendation for cabinet to hire Carroll was dated May 2.

Carroll kept the job offer quiet because she was worried the news might overshadow last week's announcement about the autism plan.

Carroll, who has spent the last 28 years advocating for non-profit organizations, has sometimes been an outspoken critic of the Houston government.

Asked how she felt about moving into a role where she will have less freedom to speak her mind, Carroll said she was unsure. 

"Well … I'm not there yet," she said. "So, we'll have to see how that goes.

"I probably have held my tongue a lot too, even in this role. So I am familiar with that."

The Department of Community Services is one of the 10 departments assigned to work with Autism Nova Scotia on the action plan, but Carroll isn't sure this will be an issue she will be asked to handle.

She said she will be keeping an eye on its progress regardless of her own role.

"Probably keep tabs on it from time to time," said Carroll. "But I am also ready to roll up my sleeves and dive into whatever direction this journey takes me next."

Carroll starts her new job June 1.

'Indelible mark'

Autism Nova Scotia posted a release to its website Friday.

"It is with bittersweet emotion that we announce Cynthia Carroll's departure as the Executive Director of Autism Nova Scotia, effective June 1, 2024.

"Cynthia's departure comes after a pivotal moment for Autism Nova Scotia with the announcement of the Autism Action Plan for the province. The milestone is a result of more than two decades of advocacy and tireless work, with Cynthia at the helm of the organization for 16 years."

The board chair of Autism Nova Scotia praised Carroll's leadership, noting the organization has grown from three employees in 2008 to more than 100 provincewide today.

"Her dedication to the autism community has made an indelible mark, and we know she will continue to break down barriers and inspire positive change in her next chapter," David Nicholson said in the release.