Rich Center hosts autism conference July 28 on campus

“Transitions in Autism from Preschool to Adulthood” is the title of a conference presented by the Rich Center for Autism 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, July 28, in Kilcawley Center on the campus of Youngstown State University.

The conference, which is open to the public, features a keynote address by Brenda Smith Myles, a consultant with the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence and the Ziggurat Group. Myles has made more than 1,000 presentations worldwide and written more than 250 articles and books on ASD. She is the recipient of the Autism Society of America’s Outstanding Professional Award, the Princeton Fellowship Award, the Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Divine Neurotypical Award, American Academy of Pediatrics Autism Champion, and two-time recipient of the Council for Exceptional Children, Division on Developmental Disabilities Burton Blatt Humanitarian Award. She served as the editor of Intervention in School and Clinic, the third largest journal in special education, and has been a member of the editorial board of several journals.

The conference focuses on transitions, such as a sudden schedule or lifestyle change, such as beginning school, graduating or starting a new job, which are often difficult for people on the autism spectrum and their families. The conference will provide information, education and real world experiences to help educators, parents and other professionals best support students affected with ASD. The event features clinically-trained professionals, parents and autism support providers.

For more information or to register, visit the Rich Center or call 330-941-1927.

The Rich Center in Fedor Hall on the YSU campus was established in 1995 through the collaborative efforts of the Kosar, Rich (Ricchiuti) and Rubino families and operates under the auspices of YSU. The mission is to improve educational experiences and outcomes for individuals with autism and their families through teaching, research, and community engagement. Children are enrolled in programs regardless of the ability to pay. Therapies, education, and support are provided tuition free.