In collaboration with the AllOne Foundation and Autism Collaborative Centers of Excellence (ACCE), the Panuska College of Professional Studies (PCPS) and the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment presented “Exploring Autism Across the Spectrum: Building Inclusive Communities” at the University’s 18th Annual U.S. Conference on disAbility on Oct. 10 on campus.
“The conference was abounding with excellent keynote speakers and presenters,” said Debra Pellegrino, Ed.D., dean of PCPS. “It provided opportunities to address key issues relevant to our mission by positively influencing the quality of life and wellness of individuals and families living with disabilities, especially autism.”
The speakers at the conference included: Patrick R. Progar, Ph.D., BCBA-D, vice president of behavioral services at The Center for Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Health; autism advocates Deya Velasco and her son, Jose Velasco Jr.; Kerry Magro, Ph.D., an award-winning professional speaker and best-selling author; and Jeremy Sicile-Kira, an acclaimed intuitive artist. This year’s conference included a meet-and-greet reception with U.S. Senator Bob Casey Jr.
The conference also highlighted the continuing accomplishments of ACCE, which is part of a multi-year, multimillion-dollar regional initiative led by the AllOne Foundation to enhance the service delivery system for individuals with autism and their families living in 13 counties in Northeastern and North Central Pennsylvania.