Diane Peruggia

Diane Peruggia is a Staten Islander who has dedicated her life to serving and advocating for those in her community. As Chairperson of the Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council (SIDDC), Ms. Peruggia’s advocacy has positively impacted countless individuals.

Ms. Peruggia has led a life of service. At just 17 years old, she was appointed liturgical leader for her local parish and volunteered to lend a helping hand throughout her community.

While pregnant with her second child, Michael, her 2-year-old daughter, Alexa, was diagnosed with autism. Inspired by her daughter, and with a vision for enhancing the quality of life for all people and families impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Ms. Peruggia became a founding member of the Grace Foundation of New York. The Foundation is credited with helping people with ASD live fulfilling and productive lives.

Due to Ms. Peruggia’s efforts, the Grace Foundation created social skills classes and Applied Behavior Analysis training for students in college. As their Strategic Planning Chair and former Vice Chair, Ms. Peruggia has proven to be a true advocate for the developmentally disabled.

In 2010, Ms. Peruggia was appointed to the New York City Department of Education’s (DOE) Panel for Education Policy. She again put her caring demeanor and passion for service on display in this role and as Trustee to the DOE retirement system.

Ms. Peruggia’s commitment to her community continues to stand out. She currently serves on the Advisory Board to the Minty Awards, the preeminent high school musical theatre awards program in Staten Island. She is also Treasurer of Staten Island’s Community Board 3, always striving to deliver a better tomorrow for all.

She has chaired national autism conferences and has advocated in Albany and Washington, D.C. to secure necessary resources for those in need. Ms. Peruggia also represents Staten Island on the New York City Regional Council for the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

Ms. Peruggia, her husband, Michael, and their two children currently reside in Huguenot and are owners of Great Escapes Travel.