Texas Governor Greg Abbott has made a new appointment to the Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) Advisory Council, selecting Summer Gainey, Ph.D., to offer her expertise to the body that counsels on matters of research, diagnosis, treatment, and educational initiatives surrounding this complex syndrome. Dr. Gainey, who hails from Anderson and boasts a robust resume as a board certified behavior analyst-doctoral, began her term recently with the goal set to conclude on August 31, 2025, according to a statement from the Governor's office.

Her background is particularly relevant to the advisory council's mission – Gainey is steeped in behavioral analysis with a history of quality assurance consulting. Furthermore, she is an active member in various professional organizations such as the Association for Behavior Analysis International, and the Texas Association of Behavior Analysis, where she has previously held the position of president. Her academic journey, that began with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Meredith College, culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy in Autism and Developmental Disabilities from The University of Texas at Austin.

The PANS Advisory Council plays a critical role in Texas, navigating the complexities of a syndrome that has a deep impact on affected children and their families. Pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome is characterized by sudden and dramatic onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms and/or severely restricted food intake concurrent with acute behavioral dysregulation, cognitive impairment, or sensory sensitivities. The council's work in advising the commission and the legislature on this issue is seen as vital to shaping the state's approach to PANS.