Rich Center for Autism to Host Transitions Conference

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Paula & Anthony Rich Center for Autism at Youngstown State University will host a day-long conference at the university July 28.

“Transitions in Autism from Preschool to Adulthood” will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at YSU’s Kilcawley Center. The keynote speaker for the event is Brenda Smith Myles, Ph.D., a consultant with the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence and the Ziggurat Group.

The conference will take a broad view of transitions for individuals with autism, from preschool to the transition from high school to adult services, said Bergen Giordani, development director at the Rich Center. It is aimed at parents, educators and professionals who deal with children and adults affected by autism.

“Any sort of major life change is difficult for people even not affected by autism,” and such changes are even more difficult for individuals who have autism, Giordani said.

Myers, a recipient of the Autism Society of America’s Outstanding Professional Award among other honors, has made more than 1,000 presentations around the world and written more than 250 articles and books on autism spectrum disorder.

“She’s impressive in her own right,” Giordani remarked.

Rates to attend are $75 for professionals or educators, $50 for parents, and complimentary for students and adults with disabilities. Advance registration is required for all attendees. More information is available here.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.