UNIVERSITY NEWS - FEBRUARY 2004

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew LaPlant
(561) 297-3022, alaplant@fau.edu or
Dr. Jack Scott
(561) 775-0625, jscott@fau.edu

FAU Hosts Lecture Series on Autism

Director of the Groden Center will speak on Options for Students with Autism

Boca Raton, FL (February 13, 2004) – The Florida Atlantic University Center for Autism and Related Disability (CARD) will present a lecture on autism by Mike Smith, director of one of the world’s foremost programs for adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The lecture will take place in the Majestic Palm Room at the University Center on the Boca Raton campus on Friday, February 20 at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

Smith will speak on “Developing Transition and Vocational Options for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders.” The lecture will include emphasis on how parents play a central role for their children. Smith’s philosophy and that of the Groden Program is based on finding and then strengthening the unique skills of the individual.

Smith is the director of vocational services at the Groden Center for Autism in Providence, Rhode Island. Groden is a premiere autism program focused on the uniqueness of each individual. The Center teaches its clients to use a broad array of techniques for daily living and vocational effectiveness. Groden currently serves over 400 people with autism in their various programs. Autism is a development disability that affects both children and adult’s verbal and non-verbal skills.

The autism lecture series will be holding one more event on March 19 and is coordinated by Dr. Jack Scott, associate professor of exceptional student education at FAU and by CARD. For more information call 561-297-0392.

-FAU-
The FAU Center for Autism and Related Disability (CARD) provides services to persons with autism and their families in Palm Beach County. The Center serves as the satellite office of the University of Miami CARD. CARD centers are funded by the Florida legislature.