EPACC Board Members
We are a dedicated group of professionals and community advocates united by a shared commitment to support individuals living with aphasia and their families. With diverse backgrounds in healthcare, education, business, and community service, our board brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and leadership to advance our mission. Together, we strive to create inclusive spaces, raise awareness, and provide meaningful resources that empower every individual to be seen, heard, and valued. Guided by integrity and a heart for service, we work collaboratively to strengthen our community and ensure that every voice matters.
April Frowner, MSPAS, PA-C
Board President, EPACC
Physician Associate
Community Advocate
Born and raised in El Paso, TX, April Frowner is a dedicated and multifaceted healthcare professional. Guided by resilience, a strong work ethic and sense of family, and a deep commitment to her community, she continues to make a meaningful impact through service and leadership.
A genuine heart to serve others is what inspired April’s pursuit of a Masters degree and certification in Physician Assistant Studies at Shenandoah University. This allowed flexibility to provide healthcare to various populations in various fields within the medical field while engaging with the community. She currently is employed as the lead physician associate (PA) in the department of trauma and acute care surgery at Del Sol Medical Center. Her past experience in various fields of medicine include internal medicine, family medicine, pediatrics, women’s health, psychiatry, urgent care and occupational therapy.
April has also participated in medical missionary trips and served as a mentor to future PA students.
Managing patients in her very own community in her mind translates to caring for those she considers family. Raised in a household with a disabled parent, April is aware of the challenges faced by those with physical disabilities and chronic illness and impact on family, work and social activities. As a result of such experiences, April is driven by a heightened cause to advocate for various underserved populations. Whether professionally, personally, socially or civically, April will attempt to assist herself or connect those who are able to meet the need.
April Frowner has served in various membership and board leadership roles with the El Paso (TX) Chapter, The Links, Incorporated, Eta Pi Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Junior League of El Paso and Girls on the Run El Paso. April is excited to serve with El Paso Aphasia Connection Center and lead to inspire like minded leaders and philanthropists in support of those with aphasia in this community and beyond.
April enjoys time to rest and reset, traveling, exploring new restaurants, pets, creating memories with family, live music, and sharing laughs with friends.
Claudia Cortez
Board Secretary
Claudia V. Cortez brings over two decades of dedicated service to people with disabilities, drawing on her background as a recreational therapist and vocational rehabilitation counselor. She holds a master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling, which has strengthened her commitment to advancing opportunities and support for individuals with disabilities. Now an Assistant Director in the Office of Medical Education at the Foster School of Medicine, she focuses on enhancing student satisfaction and driving quality improvement efforts. Claudia’s passion for advocacy extends beyond her professional roles she has volunteered with multiple disability‑focused organizations across Lubbock and El Paso, continuing her lifelong mission to support inclusion, independence, and community engagement.
Mark Bandy, CPA, MBA
Board Treasurer
Mark Bandy, CPA, MBA is a seasoned financial professional with extensive experience in accounting, financial management, and organizational leadership. He brings a strong background in financial reporting, compliance, risk management, and strategic planning across both corporate and consulting settings. Throughout his career, he has supported business growth, guided complex financial operations, and collaborated closely with executive teams and boards of directors. Known for his analytical mindset and approachable leadership style, Mark is committed to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and sound stewardship in his role as Board Treasurer.