Celebrity and Influence can really draw our attention in today’s day and age. People who have influence have a responsibility to use their platform for the good of others. This is especially true of influential people on the autism spectrum. In this post, we’ll discuss some of autism’s most influential people and their impact.
Mary Temple Grandin
Grandin is a professor at Colorado State University. She was impacted by her autism quite severely at a young age, even having challenges with verbal communication. As a professor of animal sciences, she has made great strides to improve the lives of animals- while also going out of her way to be an outspoken advocate in the autism community. TIME named her one of the top 100 influential people in the world. You can learn more about her on her website.
Dr. Stephen Shore
Dr. Shore is a professor of special education at Adelphi University. He is also on the autism spectrum and a key advocate for autism awareness and acceptance. He is most influential in his written works, having authored books like College for Students with Disabilities, Ask and Tell and Autism for Dummies. His books primarily serve to spread autism awareness and help those on the spectrum learn to speak up for their own needs. He also serves on the board of Autism Speaks.
Kerry Magro
Kerry Magro is a major advocate for therapy and early intervention, having himself been diagnosed at 4 years old and receiving treatment throughout his life. Kerry is a professional speaker and an author. He also has consulted for movies that depict autism and founded a nonprofit organization called KFM Making a Difference which provides disability housing. He is a longtime advocate for autism and you can learn more about him on his website.
Amy Gravino
Amy Gravino is a certified autism specialist, college coach, speaker and author, amongst other things. Amy’s work particularly focuses on how autism affects women. She is heavily involved in ongoing autism research and is dedicated to supporting adults on the spectrum as they navigate their symptoms. You can learn more about Amy on her website.
Haley Moss
Haley was recently featured across a variety of news outlets for becoming the first openly autistic lawyer in Florida. She is a practicing attorney, an author, and an advocate spreading messages of inclusion across all of her work. You can learn more about her and her speaking engagements on her website.For more ABA and autism related news and tips visit our blog and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! If you have questions regarding ABA therapy services or you’re interested in visiting one of our locations, don’t hesitate to reach out to us on our contact page. We’re always here to answer your questions and support your family’s needs as best as we can.