Featured Speakers
Coming of Age Across the Autism Spectrum - July 9, 2022

Inspired by his son with Autism, Michael has become a Chartered Special Needs Consultant® with extensive training and continuing education on the complex topics and particular challenges of caring for a dependent with special needs, including the constant changes in federal and state laws.

Dr. Robin Brewer is an Associate Professor Emeritus from the School of Special Education at the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) in Greeley, Colorado. Dr. Brewer’s emphasis was teaching students with Autism/Significant Support Needs.

Sameer Dahar is a gifted young adult with autism. As he is primarily non-vocal he is a strong advocate for those who have no voice.

Andy is a Mental Health Therapist in private practice and a consultant with Bass Educational Services.

Akhil Lad, a nonspeaker neurodiverse adult, is an inspiration. He was diagnosed at 18 months with AUTISM with not much hope, and in spite of all the challenges he is taking an Associate Science Degree with Rowan College of South Jersey.

Manisha Lad is an Autism Coach, Holistic Health Coach, and the Founder & Executive Director of the Akhil Autism Foundation.

Dan McManmon is the President of the College Internship Program (CIP).

Dr. Michael McManmon founded the College Internship Program (CIP) in 1984. Prior to Founding CIP, he worked for state, private and non-profit organizations in several states and was certified as a family teacher through the Boys Town Center in Nebraska.

Alexander (Alex) Morris-Wood is the Dean of Admissions, Transition Programs, & Strategic Outreach at Beacon College.

Diagnosed with "Atypical Development and strong autistic tendencies" and "too sick" for outpatient treatment, Dr. Shore was recommended for institutionalization. Nonverbal until four, and with much support from his parents, teachers, wife, and others, Stephen is now a professor at Adelphi University where his research focuses on matching best practice to the needs of people with autism. 

Ron Sandison works full time in the medical field and is a professor of theology at Destiny School of Ministry. He is an advisory board member of the Art of Autism and the Els Center of Excellence.

Carol Weinman is an attorney, autism expert, international speaker, mediator, author and parent.

Ron Zimmerman is a lifelong journalist working for CBS, ABC, Fox and CNN. His live reporting has appeared on Good Morning America, World News Tonight, 20/20 and the BBC’s Horizon and Panorama.