Author: Gilda Evans

Assemblywoman Christy Smith discusses some of the biggest challenges facing the special needs delivery system and how they are being addressed, as well as the best ways to advocate with your local legislator. 

Dan Greenwood, former college professor, CEO of Greenwood Associates and creator of the Greenwood Career and College System, talks about how to match the right career and educational path with a person’s strengths, preferences and personality traits to increase the chances of success and enjoyment in one’s chosen field. 

Janet Price, the Director of Admissions and Outreach for College Living Experience, talks about their program and the importance of mastering certain skills to prepare for a more independent lifestyle and a successful transition from high school to college and beyond. 

Ifunanya Nweke, M.A., musician, behavior interventionist and founder of Jazz Hands for Autism, talks about the correlation between the arts and autism and how they combine to create a therapeutic tool that can be used to help these individuals show their strengths and flourish through expression in music and performance. 

Maja Watkins, founder of of Zip Zap Zop Enrichment, shares information about her unique program that helps build social skills through having fun with games and improvisation. Maja has worked nationally and internationally, bringing her creative set of therapeutic tools to people of all ages. 

Dr. Diane Hennacy Powell, neuroscientist, neuropsychiatrist, award-winning author and clinician, discusses various causes and presentations of autism as well as supports that can be easily offered in the home as well as clinical treatments and common misconceptions about the diagnosis. 

Emily Iland, M.A., award-winning author and thought leader in the autism field, discusses diploma vs. certificate track and dual enrollment while in high school, as well as various educational choices available after graduation. 

Elaine Hall, Founder of The Miracle Project, shares her pioneering story about using inclusive theater and film to connect with individuals with autism. Elaine’s students have performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall and the White House, and appeared in television shows such as Atypical, The Good Doctor, Parenthood and Speechless. The Miracle Project is profiled in the Emmy winning HBO documentary, Autism, The Musical.

Aaron Markovits, Program Director for the Taft College Transition to Independent Living Program, shares the details of how this program works. The TIL program incorporates teaching independent living skills with college campus living while simultaneously supporting the student in their academic pursuits.