44th Annual Autism Conference: Celebrating the Power of Connection | | Nearly 1,450 registrants joined us last week in Atlantic City for two days of learning and connection! Our 44th Annual Autism Conference featured 125 exhibitors, two keynotes, lunch and networking sessions, 63 workshops, and much more. | | | | This year’s keynotes explored how we can build more autism-friendly communities and care for ourselves while supporting others. Families also shared stories and encouragement during the family-only lunch and networking session. Workshops, research posters, and conversations with exhibitors offered practical information to bring back to homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. | | Thank you to our attendees, presenters, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, and community partners for making these two days so meaningful. Look for a full recap in next month's issue. In the meantime, take a look at some of our favorite moments → | | DDD Updates Behavioral Supports Provider Requirements | | | | The New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) has issued new guidance on behavior analyst licensure requirements for DDD-funded behavioral supports, with a compliance deadline of May 6, 2027. Learn what these changes mean for providers, adults with autism, and their families, and how Autism New Jersey is helping support a smooth transition. Read more → | |
Autism New Jersey Appointed to School Funding Steering Committee | |
Autism New Jersey’s Director of Public Policy and Clinical Partnerships, Darren Blough, has been appointed to New Jersey’s School Funding Steering Committee, which is reviewing the state’s school funding system and exploring opportunities for improvement.
His participation will help ensure that the educational needs of autistic students, including those requiring intensive, individualized services, are part of these important discussions. Read more →
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Autism New Jersey Welcomes Dr. Tracy Kettering as Director of Clinical Initiatives
Dr. Tracy Kettering, BCBA-D, joins Autism New Jersey to lead our healthcare initiative and strengthen collaboration among healthcare and behavioral health providers. With more than 20 years of experience, she brings extensive expertise in improving care for individuals with autism and severe challenging behavior. Learn more about Tracy →
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Join Our Helpline Team
Autism New Jersey is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Helpline Coordinator to join our team. This position plays an important role in supporting individuals and families through our 800.4.AUTISM Helpline by providing information, resources, and guidance to help them navigate New Jersey's autism service systems. Learn more and apply →
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Upcoming Connection Sessions | | |
Wellness Connection:
Holiday Stress
Nov. 11 | 12 to 1 p.m.
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Fathers Connection Session
Nov. 11 | 7 to 8 p.m.
Dec. 9 | 7 to 8 p.m.
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Sibling Connection Session
Nov. 11 | 7 to 8 p.m.
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Black Community Connection Session
Dec. 3 | 7 to 8 p.m.
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Latino Connection Session
Dec. 9 | 7 to 8 p.m.
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Health & Wellness Coaching for Caregivers
Make space for your own well-being. Join our free Health & Wellness Coaching for caregivers, where you’ll meet in a small virtual group with Autism New Jersey’s Director of Family Wellness to explore goals, build sustainable habits, and learn practical strategies to support your overall well-being. Learn more and sign up today →
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Participate in a Research Study
Mobile Health App Study for Autistic Young Adults: Researchers from the University of Delaware are seeking autistic young adults ages 16–25 and their parents or guardians to participate in five virtual workshops to help design a mobile health app.
Mainstream Technology Use by People With Disabilities: The University of Pittsburgh is conducting a research study exploring how people with disabilities use mainstream wireless technologies, including smartphones, mobile apps, smart home technology, and wearable devices.
Strength Based Parenting Research Study: The Kessler Foundation is conducting a fully remote research study exploring a strength-based parenting program for parents of children with autism ages 5–12.
Propranolol Study for Challenging Behaviors in Autism: Researchers are seeking participants ages 12–40 with autism who engage in challenging behaviors, including aggression or self-injury, for a research study evaluating propranolol, a medication used to treat high blood pressure that may also help with these behaviors.
Exploring Character Strengths and Well-Being Among Autistic College Students: Researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, are conducting a study exploring character strengths among autistic college students and how they relate to well-being, life satisfaction, flourishing, and emotions.
Argo AAC App Usability Research Study: Alethium Technologies is inviting families to participate in a research study evaluating Argo, a new augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) iPad app.
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Have you found our monthly e-news helpful?
Have you or your loved ones benefited from our advocacy, education, or outreach?
Please support our work so that we can help more New Jersey residents.
| As always, if you require support or information,
please connect with us at 800.4.AUTISM or visit www.autismnj.org. |
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