Program Manager for the AAPD’s Internship Programs

Neil Purohit is the Program Manager for the AAPD’s Internship Programs, and Disability Advocacy Certificate Program. Prior to joining AAPD, Neil served as a Disability Rights Advocate for Disability Rights DC, the District of Columbia’s Protection and Advocacy agency for people with disabilities. In this role he monitored conditions in residential and institutional settings, advocated for community-based services and person-centered discharge and treatment plans, and presented on a range of topics related to disability rights.

Neil has extensive experience in disability advocacy, program development, and youth development. He is passionate about advocating for the full inclusion of disabled people in education and the workforce. Prior to DRDC, Neil worked as a Program Coordinator for INCLUDEnyc, a nonprofit organization in New York which advocates for the rights of young people with disabilities in the education system.

Neil earned a Master of Science in Social Work with a specialization in Leadership, Management, and Entrepreneurship from Columbia University. He also holds a Human Services Management Certificate from The Network for Social Work Management, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the City University of New York, Queens College. Outside of work, Neil can be found journaling, spending time in nature, and building community.