Team: Skaters

» Kelly Lannan
» Jason Ortolano
» Sean Streich
» Carson Strang
» Amber Leenstra

Kelly Lannan, Skater

Kelly Lannan, a senior at Union College, is from Winchester, Massachusetts. Kelly, the captain of the Union College Women's Ice Hockey team will be joining the RollingForAutism Team as one of our skaters. A little bit tougher than our male skaters, it is our hope that a female presence kicking butt on the road will motivate our male skaters to skate a little bit harder and not whine like babies.

Kelly described, "I am extremely happy to have the opportunity to work with some of the greatest people in order to raise money to provide multiple scholarship opportunities for children living with Autism." It will be an absolute pleasure to work with and skate alongside someone with the character of Kelly.

Jason Ortolano, Skater

Jason Ortolano, a senior at Union College was born some 23 years ago in New York City. Interestingly enough Jason was born with a pair of skates on his feet and a big blonde mullet on his head. After many years of torturous hours at the rink, Ortolano is excited to be skating for a cause he finds worth while. Ortolano remarked "my first week of retirement from hockey was difficult, but then I met Foye." Regardless, Ortolano was able to develop a poetic stride, and looks forward to putting it towards a great cause.

When Tatar approached Ortolano with post graduation plans, Ortolano quickly responded, "Count me in." More impressively, Ortolano's enthusiasm only increased as he found out Tatar's left field idea was a coast- to-coast rollerblading trip to raise money for Autism.

In addition to skating, Ortolano will be a valuable media asset to the RollingForAutism team as he garnishes national attention by receiving a World Record for "Longest Rollerblade tour by someone with a mullet." What it really boils down to is that Ortolano is excited about not having to work for the summer, hanging out with his friends, meeting lots of new people and working towards a great cause. Ortolano commented "This is a once in a life time opportunity to do something positive for a lot of deserving people and to have a lot of fun along the way.

Sean Streich, Skater

A native of Kimberley, British Columbia, Sean Streich brings some international flavor to the RollingForAutism Team. A psychology major and future teacher, Sean looks forward to finishing up his senior year at Union College and hitting the road with the boys this summer.

As a two year captain of the Union College Ice Hockey Team, Sean’s primary role in this incredible venture will be as the pace setter for those rollerblading. Commenting on his role, Sean remarked “I must take on this responsibility because Mr. Tatar is a goalie and probably doesn’t even know how to skate and Orto will be rusty as he hasn't strapped on skates in a couple years.” Regardless, the RollingForAutism team is confident that Sean’s leadership skills developed on the ice rink will prove to be a valuable asset on the road this summer.

Streich went on to state; “In all seriousness, this journey will remain forever in my heart. It will be the most fun, yet most productive summer of my life. I truly believe there is nothing as satisfying as working with a great group of close friends in hopes of bettering the lives of many people affected by Autism.” The RollingForAutism Team is extremely excited to have someone with the work ethic, leadership skills, and heart of Streich aboard.

Carson Strang, Teammate

Hailing from Shaker Hts.Ohio, home to numerous rollerblading legends, Carson Strang joins the RollingForAutism team with aspirations of not only helping those affected by autism, but also carrying on his hometown legacy. When first approached about the project Strang expressed the following concern: “What are we going to be wearing? Reaching a goal is 90% looks, 10% attitude.” After being assured by fellow skater and fashion guru Dan Tatar that our attire will be up to style, Strang has yet to look back.

After a brief stint at the United States Air Force Academy, Carson believes that he has what it takes to with stand both the grueling pace of the journey ahead and the constant nagging by Lauren “Foye” Ortolano. Carson’s aspirations for a career in law enforcement bring the added dimension of security to the trip. Besides skating the more than 2,000 mile journey, Carson will also hold the title of head of security for the RollingForAutism team. This position is of the utmost importance and will involve intricate planning, but his no nonsense policy should deter any crazed teeny boppers from getting too close to Dan and Jason. Carson is excited about the teams fundraising efforts, and looks forward to tearing up the pavement this summer while rolling for autism.

Amber Leenstra, Teammate

Amber Leenstra is from a small town outside of Burlington, VT… but don't assume she is just a country girl. She is interested in attending medical school after graduation from the University of Vermont next spring. Amber spent last summer working in a medical clinic in Peru, and hopes life on the road with 15 college students will prove to be equally adventurous.

Fortunately, Amber spent her winters playing pond hockey and later, competitive hockey in high school. Commenting on Amber's hockey experience, RollingForAutism Nurse Elaine Lambrinos remarked "We are all expecting Tatar to get injured. We are fortunate to have Leenstra on the trip as she will be a great replacement." Amber is excited to be a part of RollingForAutism, and can't wait for this summer to roll around!