1. health and fitness
2. disease
3. autism and pdd

R
ays of Hope for a Brighter Future
WEDNESDAY APRIL 29 – THURSDAY APRIL 30, 2015
MACON MARRIOTT CITY CENTER – MACON, GA
Ga-AutismPlan.com
Harrison Morgan Design
harrisonmorgandesign.com
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT: GA-AUTISMPLAN.COM WEBSITE
LOGO DESIGN: AUTISM PLAN FOR GEORGIA LOGO DESIGN
GEORGIA AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO PROGRAM DESIGN AND ASSOCIATED ILLUSTRATIONS
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
3
Table of Contents
Welcome Letter
4
Exhibitor Map
5
Speaker Bios
6
Keynote Conversations
12
Wednesday Breakout Sessions-Early Intervention & Preschool Services
13
Wednesday Breakout Sessions-Family Support
14
Wednesday Breakout Sessions-Elementary & Secondary Education
15
Wednesday Breakout Sessions-Community Services & Supports
16
Wednesday Breakout Sessions-Adult Services & Supports
17
Conference Agenda
18-19
Thursday Breakout Sessions-Referral & Diagnosis
20
Thursday Breakout Sessions-Early Identification and Screening
21
Thursday Breakout Sessions-Medical & Behavioral Health Services
22
Thursday Breakout Sessions-Transition from Youth to Adult Systems
23
Thursday Breakout Sessions-Emergency Preparedness & First Responders
24
Planning Committee Bios
25
Conference Sponsors & Exhibitors
29
Sponsors
30
Certificate of Attendance
33
Young Leader Travel Award
35
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AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
Autism Conference and Expo of Georgia
On behalf of the Autism Advisory Council for the Autism Plan for Georgia (APG), it is my
pleasure to welcome you to the inaugural Autism Conference and Expo of Georgia! We
are excited that you have chosen to be part of what we hope will be only the first of what
will be a major annual event.
We are so excited about the very high level of interest in the conference. As I write this,
we have more than 400 people registered to attend and are expectiing more. We think
that this is a testimony to the remarkable collaboration of major organizations and
community partners that have come together to implement the APG.
The conference is organized around the 10 areas of the APG, which were developed with
extensive stakeholder input over a two-year period with funding from the Maternal and
Child Health Bureau to Georgia State University. We have received another two years of
funding to support full-scale implementation of the APG.
As you review the conference agenda, you will see that it includes presentations by state
and national leaders in autism services, research, advocacy, and policy – it’s a truly
impressive group. We will have four large keynote conversations and 20 smaller breakout
sessions to provide more in-depth opportunities for learning. We hope that the
conference will foster conversation and coordinated efforts among families, self-advocates,
professionals, researchers, autiusm advocacy organizations, and state agencies in Georgia.
We are optimistic that the conference will fulfill two goals – first, featuring some of the
excellent work in Georgia that addresses the needs identified in the APG, and second,
highlighting the areas for increased effort in the future. Implementation of the APG will
not happen by itself; it needs your help. We hope that as you learn more about the APG,
you will see some areas where you can get involved. It is truly a conference put on by the
community for the community.
On Wednesday evening, we will also take time to honor one of our own. Dr. Marshalyn
Yeargin-Allsopp of the CDC National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental
Disabilities will receive the first ever Georgia Autism Achievement Award in recognition of
her pioneering work in autism epidemiology.
Thank you for your committment to improving opportunities for those living with autism
and related developmental disabilities and their families! Welcome!
Daniel Crimmins, PhD
Director for the Center for Leadership in Disability
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AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
Ballroom
D/E
Keynotes/Lunch
10 11
9
Escalator
Main Level
12 13
Lobby
Elevator
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Restrooms
Stairs
Main Level Exhibitors 1-13
6 – Spring Brook Behavioral Health System
7 – Accelerations Educational Software
8 – Laurel Heights Hospital
9 – Central Georgia Autism
10 – Special Needs Certified
11 – Autism Society of Georgia
12 – American Academy of Pediatrics – GA Chapter
13 – Georgia Department of Public Health
Upper Level
308
23
303
Elevator
Restrooms
22
21
309
310
306
313
324
Sensory Safe Room
312
1 – Autism Plan for Georgia
2 – Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency
3 – Autism Speaks
4 – Early Autism Project
5 – Marcus Autism Center
14
15
16
20
19 18
17
Prefunction Space
Stairs
Upper Level Exhibitors 14-23
14 – Emory Autism Center
15 – Young Leader Travel Award Winner
16 – Young Leader Travel Award Winner
17 – Animals Love Friendship
18 – Therapy in a Bin
19 – UroMed
20 – Pathways Behavioral Consulting
21 – Emory Conte Center
22 – The Bridge of Georgia
23 – CDC: National Center on Birth Defects
and Developmental Disabilities
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AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
C o n fere nce Spe a ke rs
Gregory Abowd, DPhil
Founder and President, Atlanta Autism Consortium, Inc.; Professor, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
Gregory D. Abowd (pronounced AY-bowd) is a Professor in the College of Computing at Georgia Tech . His research interests
lie in the intersection between Software Engineering and Human-Computer Interaction. Specifically, Dr. Abowd is interested in
ubiquitous computing (ubicomp) and the research issues involved in building and evaluating ubicomp applications that impact
our everyday lives. In the College of Computing, he is involved in research with faculty from the GVU Center and the Georgia
Tech Broadband Institute.
Dr. Abowd directs the Ubiquitous Computing Research Group in the College of Computing and GVU Center. This effort started with the Future Computing Environments research group in 1995, and has since matured into a collection of research groups,
including Dr. Abowd's own group. The FCE Group now consists of a federation of many faculty in the College of Computing.
Scott Badesch
President and Chief Executive Office, Autism Society of America (National Office), Bethesda, MD
A father of a young adult with autism, Scott Badesch led his local Autism Society affiliate before joining the national office in 2010
as senior vice president of development and operations. He has more than 30 years of experience in nonprofit organizations,
particularly in fundraising, chapter outreach, advocacy and public policy, and transformation of organizations.
Before joining the Autism Society national office, Mr. Badesch served as president and CEO of the Autism Society of North
Carolina. Other experience includes 14 years as president and CEO of the United Way of Palm Beach County, and six years as
president and CEO of the United Way of South Carolina. Mr. Badesch lives in Silver Spring, Maryland, and has four children.
Scott Bales
Vice-president, Atlanta Autism Consortium, Inc.; President of the Advocacy Benevolence Leadership Empowerment (ABLE), Andrew Young
School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
Scott Bales is a native Georgian with deep family roots throughout the State. He was not correctly diagnosed with Asperger's
syndrome in his early forties. While working as a Georgia EPD Environmental Scientist / Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Specialist, Scott also serves as the Atlanta Autism Consortium's Vice-President, on the State Advisory Panel for Special Education,
on the Georgia Emergency Preparedness Coalition for Individuals with Disabilities and Senior Adults, and on the Georgia
Technology Authority's Georgia GIS Coordinating Committee as the Framework Committee Chair with the extra task of
improving GIS supports for emergency and disaster management after last year's Snowmagedon. He previously served as an
EPD Emergency Response Team Division Duty Officer, published a book chapter on GIS support for statewide emergency
management in the 1996 book "Disaster Management in the U.S. and Canada", and as the State of Georgia's Y2K Emergency
Coordinator on the Y2K Contingency Planning Management Team.
Anna Bullard
Community Outreach Director; Director of Early Advocacy, Early Autism Project Inc., Savannah, GA, Board of Directors, Autism Society of Georgia
My mission is to ensure all children with autism spectrum disorder in the state of Georgia and in the United States have access
to quality treatment. I am passionate about equality for mental health and advocate for insurance coverage, school based service,
and community and job related services. I have lived in a small community most of my life and desire for all families to be stable
and self-sufficient with the appropriate resources to do so whether they live in a metro area or rural south Georgia.
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
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Jason Cavin, MS, MA, LPC, BCBA
Director of Behavior Supports and Consultation, Center for Leadership in Disability, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
Jason Cavin is a licensed professional counselor and board certified behavior analyst. Jason serves as the Director of Behavior
Support and Consultation for the Center for Leadership in Disability. Jason works with individuals, families, agencies and school
systems to assist with individualized positive behavior support initiatives, behavior support consultation, staff training and
organizational development.
Daniel Crimmins, PhD
Director, Center for Leadership in Disability and Professor of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Crimmins has an extensive background in program development in the area of disability, with a particular interest in issues
that reflect the intersection of research, policy, and practice. His scholarly contributions have centered on autism and the
assessment and interventions of behavior as communication in individuals with disabilities. He is a former Robert Wood Johnson
Health Policy Fellow, serving on the staff of Senator Jim Jeffords in 2003. Dr. Crimmins is currently the president of AUCD, an
organization of over 100 interdisciplinary university centers.
Claire Dees
Community Engagement Manager, Parent to Parent of Georgia, Atlanta, GA
Claire is the Community Engagement Manager for Parent to Parent of Georgia, President of Spectrum Autism Support Group,
Community Advisory Board member for Center for Leadership in Disability, Gwinnett Coalition of Health and Human Services
Emergency Preparedness committee member, Disability Liason for Community Outreach for Perimeter Church. Mother of 3,
one of who lived with autism and greatly defined my life, giving me a passion and purpose to help others with support, resources and education.
Jean Estes, Esq
Attorney, Advocates for Special Education, State of Georgia, Lawrenceville, GA
Jean Estes is an attorney in private practice representing children with special needs and their parents in their quest to obtain
appropriate services in Georgia schools. Jean has worked with families for over 23 years and is the mom of a 14-year-old
student with disabilities.
Austin Harris
Self-advocate, currently pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice at Gwinnett Technical College
Austin Harris is a certified and experienced Skywarn Storm Spotter, Ham radio operator, Community Emergency Response
Team Instructor. He is currently pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice at Gwinnett Technical College and hopes to one day
pursue an EMT certification and certification as a State of Georgia Emergency Manager. He brings a wealth of knowledge to
Spirit of Autism with years of research and experience in emergency preparedness and as an adult with Autism.
Lillie Huddleston, PhD
Clinical Assistant Professor, Health Promotion and Behavior, Center for Leadership in Disability, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Lillie Huddleston recently joined the research faculty at the Center for Leadership in Disability (CLD) at Georgia State
University. Her academic training is in the area of School Psychology. She comes to CLD from Emory University School of
Medicine where she served as Director of Psychological Services for the Down syndrome and Fragile X clinics. Dr. Huddleston’s
current primary role at CLD is the coordination of the PBVS project. She also serves as a member of the evaluation team for
the Autism Plan of Georgia.
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AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
Patricia Matthews, MD
Parent of a child with Autism, WellStar Medical Group Pediatric & Adolescents Center, Smyrna, GA
Dr. Tricia Matthews graduated from Mercer University School of Medicine in the class of 2002. She completed her residency at
University of Florida - Shands Jacksonville 2005. She has worked as a Primary Care Pediatrician Wellstar Pediatric and Adolescent Center of Cobb in Smyrna, GA 2005-current. She is also an active Member of American Academy of Pediatrics and a
Fellow of the American Board of Pediatrics. She is the Mother of child with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Michael Morrier, PhD, BCBA-D
Assistant Director for Early Childhood Programs, Emory Autism Center and Assistant Professor, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Michael J. Morrier is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at Emory
University School of Medicine. Dr. Morrier has worked with children with autism and their families over 20 years. He previously
served on the Board of Directors of the Autism Society of America-Greater Georgia Chapter from 1999-2003, as both a Board
Member and Executive Vice President. He has also served on the Board of Directors for Georgia’s Division of Early Childhood, a
state subdivision of the Council for Exceptional Children. Dr. Morrier has participated on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention’s Autism Surveillance project as an expert clinical reviewer since 1999.
Dr. Morrier is the co-author of several journal articles and book chapters on Autism and he serves on the editorial board for
the International Journal of Education, and has guest reviewed for several leading journals and Autism Speaks.
Janice Nodvin
Executive Director and Clinical Director, Adult Disability Medical Home, Inc. (ADMH), Atlanta, GA
Nodvin has over nine years’ experience as an educator and has worked extensively as a parent advocate for over thirty years.
Along with her education degree, she has certification in care management in aging. She has supported and initiated numerous
community programs in the areas of developmental disabilities. She serves on the Community Advisory Council of the Center
on Learning for Disabilities and is active in disability awareness at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, the Down
Syndrome Association of Atlanta and her synagogue. Her inspiration is her son, Evan, age 35 who has Down syndrome, who has
held a job with the same company for over 14 years and lives independently. He serves as a self-advocate on the Georgia
Council on Developmental Disabilities.
Allison O’Hara, EdS, MS
Behavioral Consultant and Therapist, Center for Leadership in Disability, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
Allison O’Hara is a Behavior Specialist with the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University. She received her
graduate degree in Professional Counseling, and has also worked in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis for over 7 years.
Allison currently serves over ten Georgia counties providing behavior consultation, parent training, clinical staff training, educational consultation, and direct therapy services for children, teens, and adults with developmental disorders.
Donna M. Johnson
Director, Child Health Projects, Office of Child Health, Maternal and Child Health, Georgia Department of Public Health, Atlanta, GA
Ms. Johnson joined Georgia Department of Public Health as the Director of Child Health Projects in the Maternal and Child
Health Section in April 2014 from Georgia State University, in the Center for Leadership in Disability. In her role as Child Health
project director, she provides leadership for child health initiatives. In addition, she oversees grants and projects associated with
state programs such as Babies Can’t Wait - Early Intervention Services (IDEA: Part C), Children’s Medical Services – Program for
Children with Special Health Care Needs, Children First – Single point of entry for Child Health Services and Title V programs.
Prior to joining the Georgia Department of Public Health, Ms. Johnson served as the coordinator and co-author of the Autism
Plan for Georgia at the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University. In this role she coordinated the development of an interdisciplinary system of care for children with autism and their families. She is a wife and mother of three children,
one of which has special health care needs.
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
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Rachel Patterson, MPA
Disability and Sibling advocate; Director of Public Policy, Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, Washington DC
Before taking her position as Director of Public Policy at the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, Rachel was the Policy
Manager at the Association of University Centers on Disabilities where she focuses primarily on health and long-term services &
supports policy. She leads AUCD’s Health Reform Implementation Workgroup and is a co-chair of the Consortium for Citizens
with Disabilities Health and Long-Term Services & Supports Task Forces. Prior to joining AUCD she was a research assistant at
the Burton Blatt Institute in Syracuse, NY. She received a Master's degree in Public Administration from the Maxwell School of
Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University and a BA in Politics from Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. She
has a sister with intellectual and developmental disabilities who lives in the Seattle area.
Mitzi Proffitt
Regional Manager, Parent to Parent of Georgia; Chair for the State, Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, Brooklet, GA
Mitzi Proffitt is a Regional Manager where she has been employed since 2009. In 2013 Mitzi was appointed to the Georgia
Council on Developmental Disabilities by Governor Nathan Deal. She was elected chairperson by the members that same year.
What is most important in Mitzi’s life is her son Joshua who recently turned 20 years old and her husband Jack. All of her
professional and volunteer efforts have been focused on making sure that Joshua lives as meaningful a life as any other individual
in the Statesboro community.
Debbie Reagin, EdD
Education Program Specialist, Georgia Department of Education, Atlanta, GA
Debbie Reagin is the Autism and Intellectual Disabilities Program Specialist for the Georgia Department of Education. She has
worked in the field of Special Education in Georgia for over 40 years as a teacher, diagnostician, supervisor and Special Ed
Director. Debbie has worked in DeKalb, Cobb, and Marietta City School Districts and is very excited about the progress that has
been made in providing services for ALL students with disabilities, especially for students with autism. We have come a long way,
and will continue to grow by working collaboratively with agencies represented in the Autism Plan for Georgia!
Cheryl Rhodes, MS, LMFT
Director, Case Management, Marcus Autism Center, Atlanta, GA
Cheryl Rhodes, M.S., LMFT is a Fellow at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center on Birth Defects and
Developmental Disabilities. Prior to joining the CDC, she was a Project Director in the Department of Educational Psychology
and Special Education at Georgia State University. She has extensive experience with early intervention and developmental
disabilities, with a particular interest in families of children with disabilities including siblings and grandparent caregivers. She is
co-author of Brothers and Sisters: A Special Part of Exceptional Families and several journal articles.
Cathy Rice, PhD
Director, Emory Autism Center; Adjunct Assistant Professor, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta GA
Catherine (Cathy) Rice, PhD is a licensed psychologist in GA, Director of the Emory Autism Center, and Professor of Psychiatry
and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University. She has worked as a teacher, researcher, consultant, and diagnostician with people
with autism, their families, and community professionals for over 20 years. For over a decade, she was the principal investigator
for CDC`s network of prevalence sites in the US. She is on the Board of the Atlanta Autism Consortium and for several national
and international organizations. Dr. Rice was the Autism Society Professional of the Year in 2008 and is interested in facilitating
capacity to support people with autism in GA.
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AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
Scott Robertson
Self Advocate; Co-Founder of the Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), a nonprofit organization “run by and for Autistic people”; Ph.D
student in Information Sciences and Technology at Penn State University, Washington, DC
Scott Michael Robertson, PhD, an autistic adult, works as a disability policy consultant, a public speaker on disability issues, and a
disability researcher. Dr. Robertson served as the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation's 2014 Public Policy Fellow at the U.S. Senate.
He worked on disability legislation and policy issues for Senator Tom Harkin at the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions (HELP). In 2013, Dr. Robertson completed his PhD in information sciences and technology at Penn State
University after investigating cyber- and face-to-face bullying victimization of autistic youth for his dissertation research. He serves
as an appointed expert/consultant on the Communications and Video Programming Subcommittees of the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Disability Advisory Committee.
Diana Robins, PhD
Associate Professor, AJ Drexel Autism Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Diana L. Robins, Ph.D. is an associate professor at the AJ Drexel Autism Institute, where she also leads the Program Area in Early
Detection and Intervention for ASD. She completed her doctorate in Clinical Neuropsychology at the University of Connecticut,
and her postdoctoral fellowship at the Yale University School of Medicine Child Study Center. Much of her work has centered
around developing, validating, and refining a widely used screening tool for ASD, the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT).
Roy Sanders, MD
Psychiatrist, Decatur Family Psychiatry, Decatur, GA
Like everyone, I have experienced joys and love. I have also experienced pain and loss. I am extremely blessed to have a loving
family. I have struggled with my own demons. My father died suddenly when both he and I were young. My oldest son was
diagnosed with autism and intellectual disability when he was a toddler. My mother was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia
two years ago and currently lives with our family.
Through all the good and not so good I have learned lessons about what to try that might help and what to avoid. Every day,
we all valiantly struggle to live and learn another day. What I have learned is that the choice of life, love and commitment is ours
to make. My father taught me before his death that I always have a choice. I can choose to affect the world and create my place
in it or I can allow the world to create a place for me. I choose to affect the world. I am honored by those who allow me to be
part of their journey to affect their worlds.
Celine Saulnier, PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University; Clinical Director for Research, Marcus Autism Center, Atlanta, GA
Celine Saulnier, Ph.D., is the Clinical Director for Research at the Marcus Autism Center and Assistant Professor in the Division of
Autism and Related Disorders, Department of Pediatrics at Emory University School of Medicine. She obtained her doctorate in
Clinical Psychology from the University of Connecticut, after which she completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Yale Child
Study Center before joining their faculty. She relocated from Yale to Emory in 2011 when Dr. Ami Klin took over the directorship of the Marcus Autism Center. Dr. Saulnier specializes in detection and diagnosis of autism and related disorders from infancy
through adulthood.
Camille Smith, MS, EdS
Behavioral Scientist, Prevention Research Branch, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD), Center
for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA
D. Camille Smith, M.S.,Ed.S. is an Educational Psychologist with the Learn the Signs Act Early Campaign, National Center on Birth
Defects and Developmental Disabilities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta. She is currently
working on a program that aims to increase early identification of children with developmental delay by improving parents’
awareness of early development, the importance of monitoring development and increasing healthcare and childcare provider
awareness of the importance of developmental screening. Her research interests include the study of caregiver/child interactions,
improving child developmental outcomes through programs designed to influence parenting behavior. She is co-author of the
Essential Package of Health and Developmental Services -an intervention that holistically addresses the needs of young vulnerable children and their caregivers affected by HIV and AIDS.
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
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Jennifer Stapel-Wax, PsyD
Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine; Director, Infant and Toddler Clinical Research
Operations, Marcus Autism Center, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Jennifer Stapel-Wax is an Associate Professor in the Division of Autism and Related Disorders in the Department of Pediatrics at Emory University School of Medicine. She is also the Director of Infant and Toddler Clinical Research Operations at the
Marcus Autism Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Her current focus on the research team is to both participate in
research on infants and toddlers at risk for autism spectrum disorders centered at the Marcus Autism Center and direct efforts
and projects for infants and toddlers in the community and in public policy.
Miyah Sundermeyer
Self-Advocate; Center for Leadership in Disability and Professor of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
Miyah Sundermeyer was born and spent 21 years in Minnesota before migrating to Atlanta, GA in 2003.
She was diagnosed with “Pervasive Developmental Delay in 1993 at age 11. Upon moving to Atlanta it was determined by a
team at the Autism Center that she had Asperger’s Syndrome. Although society has tried to underestimate what Miyah can or
cannot do she was able to fight to live independently and receive an education. She currently has an associate degree in psychology and works for the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University.
Debi Taylor
Autism Specialist, Founder of Spirit of Autism, Inc. (“Training for emergency Responders”) and co-founder/active member of the Fire
Rescue Reserve, Atlanta, GA
Debi comes from a long line of Emergency Responders. Her experience as an Autism Specialist, Founder of Spirit of Autism,
co-founder/active member of the Fire Rescue Reserve and now and EMT inspired her to create Autism training programs
aimed at keeping Emergency Responders and Autistic individuals safe on the scene of a crime, fire, medical call or disaster. She
attained continuing education credit codes on a state level for Law Enforcement (GA POST) and EMS (CEU Code Awarded).
Ninetta Violante
Captain, City of Decatur Fire Department
Captain Ninetta Violante has been with the City of Decatur Fire Dept for almost 15 years. She has worked with many types of
children and families with special needs and has a child with Down syndrome, who is 8 and never sleeps and is nonverbal. She
has a double undergraduate in anthropology and English from Emory, as well as her masters in public health–policy from Rollins
School of Public Health. She has analyzed health care systems all over the world such as Cuba, Kenya, Japan, and Europe.
Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp, MD
Medical Epidemiologist and Chief, Developmental Disabilities Branch, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
(NCBDDD), Center for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA
Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp, MD, is a Medical Epidemiologist and Chief of the Developmental Disabilities Branch. Dr. Yeargin-Allsopp joined CDC in 1981 as an Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) Officer and completed a Preventive Medicine Residency in
1984. Since coming to CDC, she designed and implemented the first U.S. population-based study of developmental disabilities in
school-age children, which laid the foundation for the current methods employed by the ADDM network. Dr. Yeargin-Allsopp
received her MD from Emory University and is board-certified in Pediatrics and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities. She has
served as the CDC liaison to the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Children with Disabilities and has published
extensively on the epidemiology of developmental disabilities. She maintains her clinical experience as an Adjunct Assistant
Professor of Pediatrics at the Emory University School of Medicine and is the medical director of the Clayton Early Intervention
Program in metropolitan Atlanta.
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AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
Key n o t e Co nve rsa ti o ns
This conference is a significant milestone in our state in that it reflects a collaborative effort of many advocacy groups, academic programs committed to working with people with autism, the Atlanta Autism
Consortium, the state agencies, and the CDC. The conference offers a platform for many stakeholders,
often with differing perspectives, to speak to each other about pertinent issues in our community and
share the common goal of improving what we know we can agree upon – the Autism Plan for Georgia.
For this reason, the conference Planning Committee has designed the “Keynote Conversations” format for
sharing and discussion. Daniel Crimmins, PhD, author of the Autism Plan for Georgia, will serve as the
facilitator for all four conversations. At the first three Keynote Conversations -- State, Nation, and
Research –each of the three speakers will share the most important elements of their work, and follow
with a discussion of what is to come in Georgia. The fourth conversation, Closing Keynote, will be a formal
keynote presentation followed by questions from the audience.
State of the State | Wednesday, 4/29 10:15 – 11:15 | Main Level Ballroom
Jennifer Stapel-Wax, Psy.D., Donna Johnson, and Anna Bullard, key Autism Advisory Council members and
leaders in Georgia, will discuss significant projects and programs that are enhancing the implementation of
the Autism Plan for Georgia.
State of the Nation | Wednesday, 4/29 1:30 – 2:30 | Main Level Ballroom
Dr. Crimmins will lead a conversation about national initiative with experts in the following areas:
• Scott Robertson will discuss will highlight broad trends in the self-advocacy movement,.
• Rachel Patterson will highlight her policy work in disability and her identity as a sibling of an
individual with autism.
• Scott Badesch will highlight the national trends in autism services and supports.
Highlights of Break-Outs | Wednesday, 4/29 4:00 – 5:00 | Upper Level 309
Gregory Abowd, Rachel Patterson and Scott Robertson, along with other presenters, will highlight some of
the conversations that took place during Break-Out sessions.
State of the Research | Thursday, 4/30 9:00 – 10:15 | Main Level Ballroom
Cathy Rice, Ph.D., Celine Saulnier, Ph.D., Diana Robins, Ph.D, leading researchers in the field of autism and
developmental disorders, will highlight research initiatives that support the implementation of the Autism
Plan for Georgia and highlight some surprising national connections to Georgia projects.
Closing Keynote | Thursday, 4/30 1:45 – 2:30 | Main Level Ballroom
Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp, M.D., from the CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental
Disabilities, will provide an overview of what has been, what is now, and what is on the horizon related to
autism in Georgia.
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
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Wednesday, April 29
Early Intervention & Preschool Services Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia Definition
Early Intervention services provide families of children with developmental disabilities (including autism) between
birth and age three with services to enhance development; these are guided by an Individualized Family Service
Plan (IFSP) and are coordinated through Babies Can’t Wait in Georgia.
Preschool Services are the services and supports provided to children with developmental disabilities (including
autism) between three and five; these are guided by an Individualized Education Program (IEP) developed to fulfill
the mandate for a “free and appropriate public education” and are coordinated through the local school district.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: Children with autism receive services appropriate for their needs. That is, services are provided by competent providers, with the frequency, duration, and fidelity needed to be effective.
QI 2: Professionals and parents work together in planning the transition from an IFSP in Babies Can’t Wait to an
IEP in preschool.
QI 3: The IEP identifies the services and supports that meet the child’s specific needs in the least restrictive
environment, including the consideration of assistive technology and positive behavior supports.
Presenters, Time & Location
Wednesday, April 29
11:30pm – 12:30pm
Upper Level 309
Jennifer Stapel-Wax, PsyD
Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine; Director, Infant and Toddler Clinical
Research Operations, Marcus Autism Center, Atlanta, GA
APG Quality Indicator addressed: QI 1
Early Autism Intervention: Clinical Practice, Professional Training, and Community Viable
Solutions
Dr. Stapel-Wax will address the current state of early intervention and introduce a variety of early intervention
techniques and services for young children. She will review initiatives to increase provider knowledge, skills, and
practices that are effective and community viable for young children, with emphasis on children 0-3 years of age.
Her talk will review issues with early intervention and how the Marcus Autism Center is addressing these issues in
a community viable way.
Wednesday, April 29
2:45pm – 3:45pm
Upper Level 309
Michael Morrier, PhD, BCBA-D
Assistant Director for Early Childhood Programs, Emory Autism Center and Assistant Professor, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
APG Quality addressed: QI 1
Current Early Treatment and Educational Services for Autism Spectrum Disorder Ages 0-5
This presentation will review current best practices for early treatment and educational services for children with
autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ages birth through 5 years. Review of data on key features of recommended
early treatment and educational services for children with ASD as well as what is currently available to families will
be described. Recommendations for effective treatment will be reviewed.
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Wednesday, April 29
Family Support Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia (APG) Definition
Family Support refers to the services and supports, both formal and informal, that help to enhance a family’s
ability to thrive while caring for and supporting a child with autism.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: Families have access to comprehensive, flexible, and family-centered supports, such as support groups,
parent training and education, respite, and after-school care.
QI 2: Supports reflect family culture, needs, values, and preferences.
QI 3: Family supports assist the family in accessing both formal and informal supports in the broader community.
Presnters, Time & Location
Wednesday, April 29
11:30pm – 12:30p
Upper Level 303
Claire Dees
Community Engagement Manager, Parent to Parent of Georgia, Atlanta, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1, 2, & 3
Are We Having Fun Yet
Strategies for creating meaningful and happy lives using supports and resources in your community. And, yes, it can
be fun!
Wednesday, April 29
2:45pm – 3:45pm
Upper Level 303
Cheryl Rhodes, MS, LMFT
Director, Case Management, Marcus Autism Center, Atlanta, GA
APG Quality Indicator addressed: QI 1
Recipes for Success: Essential Ingredients of Family Support
This session will review recommendations of essential services and supports for families of children with ASD that
promote individual and family well-being across the lifespan. Drawing on research and family experiences, we will
discuss the questions, Is there a recipe for successful family support? and if so, How can we assure that communities offer the right 'ingredients'?
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
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Wednesday, April 29
Elementary & Secondary Education Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia (APG) Definition
Elementary & Secondary Education refers to services and supports provided to children, youth, and young adults
with autism; these are guided by an Individualized Education Program (IEP) developed to fulfill the mandate for a
“free and appropriate public education” and are coordinated through the local school district.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: Children with autism receive educational supports that maximize their potential.
QI 2: Teaching methods address the unique needs of each student with autism while recognizing the student’s
strengths and interests. Methods vary based on age and developmental appropriateness. Instruction may, therefore,
be delivered individually or in small groups, as well as be embedded into natural routines and large groups.
QI 3: Instruction focuses on improving functional communication, socialization, and self-regulation skills, in addition
to learning the general curriculum.
Presenters, Time & Location
Wednesday, April 29
11:30pm – 12:30pm
Upper Level 306
Debbie Reagin, EdD
Education Program Specialist, Georgia Department of Education, Atlanta, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1 & 2
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act: An Overview
Debbie Reagin, Autism and Intellectual Disabilities Program Specialist from the Georgia Department of Education
will review the key provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Federal legislation that
“ensures that all children with disabilities have available to them a free and appropriate public education (FAPE)
that emphasizes special education and related services designed to meet the unique needs of children with
disabilities, and to prepare them for further education, employment and independent living.
Wednesday, April 29
2:45pm – 3:45pm
Upper Level 306
Jean Estes, Esq
Attorney, Advocates for Special Education, State of Georgia, Lawrenceville, GA
Mitzi Proffitt
Regional Manager, Parent to Parent of Georgia, Brooklet, GA; Chair for the State, Georgia Council on Developmental
Disabilities
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1
A Parent/Lawyer Conversation
Jean, Special Education lawyer, and Mitzi, Chair of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, both are
mothers of young men with disabilities who strive to build skills through their IEP to support their life in the
community. They will share their stories and strategies to support their children in achieving success.
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
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Wednesday, April 29
Community Services & Supports Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia (APG) Definition
Community Services & Supports promote independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion into the
community for children, youth and adults with autism.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: Children, youth, and adults with autism and their families have access to services and supports that promote
safety, learning, and independence at home. Examples include in-home behavior supports, affordable child care, and
home instruction in self-help skills.
QI 2: Children, youth, and adults with autism and their families have access to services and supports that promote
safety, learning, and independence in the community. Examples include recreational opportunities and camps.
QI 3: Professional programs link with community agencies to assist families to access supports and services
needed by families of children with autism, including affordable childcare.
Presenters, Time & Location
Wednesday, April 29
11:30pm – 12:30pm
Upper Level 308
Allison O’Hara, EdS, MS
Behavioral Consultant and Therapist, Center for Leadership in Disability and Professor of Public Health, Georgia State
University, Atlanta, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 2
Using Visual Supports to Help Increase Independence in Children with ASD
This presentation will equip attendees with instructional strategies to boost independence in children with ASD as
they access community settings. Much focus will be given to the use of visual aids and schedules as supportive
tools. Attendees will learn both child-directed and community-directed strategies to promote child safety and
functioning so that inclusion within community settings may be maximized.
Wednesday, April 29
2:45pm – 3:45pm
Upper Level 308
Lillie Huddleston, PhD
Clinical Assistant Professor, Health Promotion and Behavior, Center for Leadership in Disability, Georgia State University,
Atlanta, GA.
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1 & 3
Positive Behavior and Visual Supports Project for Children and Families in Babies Can’t Wait
The Positive Behavior and Visual Supports (PBVS) project was designed as a 5-session home-based program to
complement services provided by Babies Can’t Wait. This presentation will cover an overview and discussion of
project goals and objectives. Attendees will be informed of the current progress of the implementation of the
PBVS across the state of Georgia. The presentation will conclude with a discussion of preliminary outcomes and
future directions for the project.
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Wednesday, April 29
Adult Services & Supports Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia (APG) Definition
Adult Services & Supports promote independence, productivity, citizenship, and inclusion into the community for
adults with autism over the age of 21.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: Adults with autism in Georgia are able to support themselves and achieve conventional markers of adulthood.
QI 2: Residential supports and housing are accessible and available to adults with autism.
QI 3: Adults with complex needs receive appropriate services, provided by competent providers, with the
frequency, duration, and fidelity needed to be effective.
Presenters,Time & Location
Wednesday, April 29
11:30pm – 12:30pm
Main Level Ballroom D & E
Jason Cavin, MS, MA, LPC, BCBA
Director of Behavior Supports and Consultation, Center for Leadership in Disability, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 3
Supporting independence, productivity and inclusion through the use of positive behavior supports.
This presentation will focus on providing participants with the tools needed to better promote independence,
productivity and inclusion of adults with autism spectrum disorders. The presenter will use a combination of
discussion and interactive exercises to walk participants through the use of positive behavior supports as a
process for better supporting others in achieving their life goals.
Wednesday, April 29
2:45pm – 3:45pm
Main Level Ballroom D & E
Adult Panel:
Miyah Sundermeyer
Self-Advocate; Center for Leadership in Disability and Professor of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
Scott Bales
Vice-president, Atlanta Autism Consortium, Inc.; President of the Advocacy Benevolence Leadership Empowerment (ABLE);
Master student in Public Policy, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA.
Scott Robertson
Self-Advocate; Co-Founder of the Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), a nonprofit organization “run by and for Autistic
people”; PhD student in Information Sciences and Technology at Penn State University
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1 & 2
A panel of young adults with autism will share their life experiences in achieving the conventional markers of
adulthood.
9:00a – 5:00p
EXPOSITION OPENS
9:00a – 10:00a
Registration and Coffee (Ballroom A)
18
Wednesday – April 29
CONFERENCE WELCOME
10:00a – 10:15a
Conference Planning Committee
State of the State Keynote Conversation (Ballroom)
Jennifer Stapel-Wax, PsyD - Marcus Autism Center
Donna Johnson - Georgia Department of Public Health
Anna Bullard - Early Autism Project Inc.
10:15a – 11:15a
Facilitator: Daniel Crimmins, PhD, Center for Leadership in Disability, GSU
11:15a – 11:30a
Tracks/Stands
11:30a – 12:30p
Networking Break & Exposition
Early Intervention
& Pre School
Family Support
Elementary &
Secondary Education
Community Services
& Supports
Adult Services
& Supports
Upper Level 309
Upper Level 303
Upper Level 306
Upper Level 308
Main Level D & E
Early Autism Intervention:
Strategies for Creating
Clinical Practice, Professional Meaningful and Happy Lives
Training, and Community
Claire Dees
Parent to Parent of Georgia
Viable Solutions
Jennifer Stapel-Wax, PsyD
Individuals with Disabilities
Using Visual Supports to
Education Act: An Overview Help Increase Independence
Debbie Reagin EdD
in Children with ASD
Georgia Department of Education
Allison O’Hara, EdS, MS
Center for Leadership in Disability, GSU
Marcus Autism Center
12:30p – 1:30p
Supporting Independence,
Productivity and Inclusion
Through the Use of Positive
Behavior Supports
Jason Cavin, MS, MA, LPC, BCBA
Center for Leadership in Disability, GSU
Networking Lunch (Ballroom A / Keynote Area) & Exposition
State of the State Keynote Conversation (Ballroom)
Scott Badesch - Autism Society of America (National Office)
Rachel Patterson, MPA - Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation
Scott Robertson - Co-Founder of the Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
1:30p – 2:30p
Facilitator: Daniel Crimmins, PhD, Center for Leadership in Disability, GSU
Tracks/Stands
2:45p – 3:45p
Early Intervention
& Pre School
Family Support
Elementary &
Secondary Education
Community Services
& Supports
Adult Services
& Supports
Upper Level 309
Upper Level 303
Upper Level 306
Upper Level 308
Main Level D & E
Current Early Treatment &
Educational Services
Michael Morrier, PhD
Emory Autism Center
Recipes for Success: Essential A Parent/Lawyer Conversation
Ingredients of Family Support Jean Estes, Esq.
Advocates for Special Education
Cheryl Rhodes, MS, LMFT
Marcus Autism Center
& Mitzi Proffitt
Positive Behavior and Visual
Supports Project
Lillie Huddleston, PhD
Center for Leadership in Disability, GSU
Parent to Parent of Georgia
Highlights of Break-Out Sessions (Upper Level 309)
4:00p – 5:00p
Facilitated Conversation with:
Gregory Abowd, D Phil - Atlanta Autism Consortium, Inc.
Rachel Patterson, MPA - Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation
Scott Robertson - Co-Founder of the Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
Highlight Conversation hosted by the Atlanta Autism Consortium
Adult Self-Advocate Panel
Miyah Sundermeyer,
Scott Bales &
Scott Robertson, Ph.D.
Facilitated by: Rachel Patterson
5:00p – 6:30p
Networking Break with Snack (Ballroom A / Keynote area) & Exposition
6:30p – 9:00p
AUTISM PLAN FOR GEORGIA AWARDS DINNER (Ballroom)
Master of Ceremonies: Kelly Ingram
Autism Achievement Award Winner: Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp, MD
Thursday – April 30
8:30a – 9:00a
Networking Coffee and Breakfast (Ballroom A / Keynote area)
State of the Research Keynote Conversation (Ballroom)
Celine Saulnier - Marcus Autism Center, Atlanta, GA
Cathy Rice - Emory Autism Center
Diana Robins - AJ Drexel Autism Institute
9:00a – 10:15a
Facilitator: Daniel Crimmins, PhD, Center for Leadership in Disability, GSU
10:15a – 10:30a
Tracks/Stands
10:30a – 11:30a
Networking & Exposition
Referral
& Diagnosis
Early Identification
& Screening
Upper Level 309
Upper Level 303
Conducting Comprehensive Standardized Screening
Evaluations for the Diagnosis Facilitates Early Detection
of Autism Spectrum Disorders Diana Robins, PhD
AJ Drexel Autism Institute
Celine Saulnier, PhD
Marcus Autism Center
11:30a – 12:30p
Tracks/Stands
12:30p – 1:30p
Transition from
Youth to Adult
Upper Level 306
Upper Level 308
Autism and the Medical
Sexuality-Issues for People
Home: Visiting the Pediatrician Living with ASD
From the Eyes of a Parent
Roy Sanders, MD
Decatur Family Psychiatry
Patricia Matthews, MD
WellStar Medical Group Pediatric
& Adolescents Center
Emergency
Preparedness
Main Level D & E
PRACTICAL Information
About 1st Responders
Debbie Taylor &
Austin Harris
Spirit of Autism, Inc. and
Fire Rescue Reserve
Networking Lunch & Exposition
Referral
& Diagnosis
Early Identification
& Screening
Medical &
Behavioral Health
Transition from
Youth to Adult
Emergency
Preparedness
Upper Level 309
Upper Level 303
Upper Level 306
Upper Level 308
Main Level D & E
Early Identification in
Community Settings:
Cathy Rice, PhD
Emory Autism Center
1:45p – 2:30p
Medical &
Behavioral Health
Learn the Signs, Act Early
(LTSAE)
Camille Smith, EdS
Prevention Research Branch, NCBDDD,
Center for Disease Control
Psychoactive Medications
Use in ASD
Roy Sanders, MD
Decatur Family Psychiatry
A Medical Home is Not
a House, but Everyone
Needs One
Janice Nodvin
Adult Disability Medical Home, Inc.
A Spectrum of Emergency
Preparedness
Ninetta Violante
Captain, City of Decatur
Fire Department
CLOSING KEYNOTE (Ballroom)
Marshlyn Yeargin-Allsopp, MD
National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD), Center for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA
Facilitator: Daniel Crimmins, PhD, Center for Leadership in Disability, GSU
Networking Break with Snack (Ballroom A / Keynote area) & Exposition
19
2:30p – 4:00p
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
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Thursday, April 30
Referral & Diagnosis Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia (APG) Definition
Referral is a recommendation that a child, who has been screened through a standardized developmental or
autism-specific assessment, be further evaluated by a professional qualified to determine a diagnosis and/or
eligibility for services.
Diagnosis is based on the assessment of an individual using the criteria in the fifth edition of Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) developed by the American Psychiatric Association.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: Families have a range of referral options so that children with disabilities may receive timely and appropriate
evaluations.
QI 2: Autism is best evaluated by a team of knowledgeable professionals using validated methods that identify
both the needs and strengths of the child, and can differentially diagnose autism from other developmental
concerns.
QI 3: Children and families from all racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds have access to culturally competent
services relating to referral, evaluation, and diagnosis.
Presenters, Time & Location
Thursday, April 30
10:30am – 11:30pm
Upper Level 309
Celine Saulnier, PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University; Clinical Director for Research, Marcus Autism Center,
Atlanta, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 2 & 3
Conducting Comprehensive Evaluations for the Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders
This workshop will provide an overview of the need for conducting comprehensive and multidisciplinary evaluations for the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders. Components will include discussion of the clinical features of
ASD, how to assess developmental, cognitive, diagnostic, speech, language, communication, and behavioral profiles,
and how this information can be used to inform treatment and intervention. Cultural diversity aspects will be
discussed, including the role of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status in access to care.
Thursday, April 30
12:30pm – 1:30pm
Upper Level 309
Cathy Rice, PhD
Director, Emory Autism Center; Adjunct Assistant Professor, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1
Early Identification in Community Settings: Developmental Monitoring, Screening, and
Assessment
This presentation will review the process of early identification of developmental concerns and signs of autism in
the first few years of life. Information on next steps for referral, assessment, and needs for increasing assessment
and services support in Georgia will be discussed.
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Thursday, April 30
Early Identification & Screening Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia (APG) Definition
Early Identification refers to a parent, educator, health professional, or other adult’s ability to recognize developmental milestones in children and to understand the value of early intervention.
Screening refers to the use of standardized developmental or autism specific assessments to identify delays in
development that may indicate the need for further evaluation.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: All children receive coordinated broad developmental and autism-specific screening at prescribed intervals,
as well as when concerns are raised about a child’s development.
QI 2: Developmental concerns of all children are recognized early as part of routine surveillance and screening.
QI 3: If developmental concerns are identified, families receive timely referrals for evaluation.
Presnters, Time & Location
Thursday, April 30
10:30am – 11:30pm
Upper level 303
Diana Robins, PhD
Associate Professor, AJ Drexel Autism Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1 & 2
Standardized Screening Facilitates Early Detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Standardized screening and ongoing developmental surveillance are crucial for early detection of Autism Spectrum
Disorder (ASD). This presentation will review the presentation of ASD in toddlers, define screening and surveillance, describe how to evaluate strategies for screening and surveillance, and present data demonstrating the
efficacy of screening to identify children at risk for ASD. Data will highlight large primary care studies using the
Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, with Follow-Up, and its revised version (M-CHAT/F and M-CHAT-R/F).
Thursday, April 30
12:30pm – 1:30pm
Upper level 303
Camille Smith, M.S., EdS
Behavioral Scientist, Prevention Research Branch, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
(NCBDDD), Center for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1, 2, & 3
Learn the Signs, Act Early (LTS/AE)
This session will highlight CDC's “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” program which aims to improve early identification of
young children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities and implements strategies that
promote the importance of acting early if a delay is suspected. This session will provide an overview of resources
and tools available through the “Learn the Signs. Act Early”program, including the on line training tool for child care
providers. In addition, information will be provided on the HHS/Dept. of Education developmental and behavioral screening initiative designed to promote developmental screening in all systems of care that serve young
children.
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
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Thursday, April 30
Medical & Behavioral Health Services Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia (APG) Definition
Health Services are the care provided to children, youth, and adults with autism to ensure their physical health
and well-being.
Behavioral Health Services are comprehensive and coordinated services for children and adults by medical and
other health professionals trained in supporting the unique needs of people with autism and other co-occurring
behavioral health diagnoses.
In a Medical Home, families work closely with primary care providers in ensuring coordinated, comprehensive, and
continuous health care. The medical home is a partnership between physicians and families that addresses both
medical and non-medical needs.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: Health care providers, including medical, dental, behavioral health, and other health professionals, are knowledgeable about how to support the routine needs of children with autism and their families.
QI 2: Children with autism and their families can access health and dental specialists who are able to support the
needs of children with autism.
QI 3: Children with autism have access to a medical and dental home that provides comprehensive, coordinated
care.
QI 4: Children with autism have access to behavioral health professionals who are knowledgeable of and trained in
the unique needs of children with autism and their families.
Presenters, Time & Location
Thursday, April 30
10:30am – 11:30pm
Upper Level 306
Patricia Matthews, MD, FAAP
WellStar Medical Group Pediatric & Adolescents Center
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1
Autism and the Medical Home.Visiting the Pediatrician from the Eyes of a Parent.
A discussion on ways that a primary care physician diagnoses and treats autism. Conversation about making an
office visit with a child on the Autism Spectrum more comfortable and productive for the parents and child.
Discussion about making a medical home for patients with ASD, involving specialists, therapists, educators.
Thursday, April 30
12:30pm – 1:30pm
Upper Level 306
Roy Sanders, MD
Psychiatrist, Decatur Family Psychiatry, Decatur, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 2 & 4
Psychoactive Medications Use in ASD
Exploring the use of psychopharmacologic agents to treat problems in a person with Autism Spectrum Disorder
(ASD).
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Thursday, April 30
Transition from Youth to Adult Systems Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia (APG) Definition
The time of Transition from Youth to Adult Systems for individuals with autism is notable for the movement from
services and supports that are available as entitlements to those requiring that eligibility be established. This
includes the transition from an IEP to employment, post-secondary education, or other supports; the move from
pediatric services to adult health providers; and the need for greater independence in utilizing transportation,
residential options, and community living. The transition period begins at age 14 and extends to age 22 and older.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: Professionals, parents, and students work together in planning transitions from one program or service to
another with consideration of the individual’s gifts, talents, and abilities.
QI 2: Youth with autism between the ages of 14 and 22, after career and interest assessments, are provided with a
variety of vocational, educational, recreational, and residential opportunities that reflect personal preferences in
preparing for the transition to adulthood.
QI 3: Youth with autism transition to adult medical services provided by primary care providers knowledgeable
about autism.
Presenters, Time & Location
Thursday, April 30
10:30am – 11:30pm
Upper Level 308
Roy Sanders, MD
Psychiatrist, Decatur Family Psychiatry, Decatur, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 3
Sexuality-Issues for People Living with ASD
Understanding the sexual development of individuals with ASD.
Thursday, April 30
12:30pm – 1:30pm
Upper Level 308
Janice Nodvin
Executive Director and Clinical Director, Adult Disability Medical Home, Inc. (ADMH)
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1 & 3
A Medical Home is not a House, but Everyone Needs One.
Health and wellness for all individuals with developmental disabilities transitioning to adult care is often fragmented
and difficult to access. We will present a best practice model of the Patient Centered Medical Home which places
the needs of patients at the center of healthcare services. This includes a holistic approach to care for successful
areas of health, wellness, living and recreational options. This session provides the participant with strategies, and a
timeline for transferring from pediatric to adult services and then maintaining the healthcare partnership.
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
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Thursday, April 30
Emergency Preparedness & First Responders Breakout Details
Autism Plan for Georgia (APG) Definition
Emergency Preparedness is the capability of the public health and health care infrastructure, communities, families,
and individuals, to prevent, respond to, and recover from emergencies in a coordinated and continuous manner.
First Responders are law enforcement, fire, and medical emergency personnel that interact, support, treat, and
meet the needs of children, youth and adults with autism.
APG Implementation Quality Indicators
QI 1: Needs of children, youth, and adults with autism are considered in state and local emergency preparedness
plans.
QI 2: Children, youth, and adults with autism are informed and prepared to handle emergencies. For example,
families have the knowledge and resources to plan and practice emergency plans.
QI 3: First responders, such as police officers and emergency medical personnel, are equipped to support children,
youth, and adults with autism in times of crisis.
Presenters Time & Location
Thursday, April 30
10:30am – 11:30pm
Main Level D & E
Debi Taylor
Autism Specialist, Founder of Spirit of Autism, Inc. (“Training for emergency Responders”) and co-founder/active member
of the Fire Rescue Reserve, Atlanta, GA
Austin Harris
Self-advocate, currently pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice at Gwinnett Technical College
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1, 2, & 3
Debi has a child with Autism and Austin is an adult with Asperger’s. This gives Spirit of Autism a unique edge to be
able to train emergency responders using real-life scenarios and first-hand experiences on both sides of the
spectrum.
Thursday, April 30
10:30am – 11:30pm
Main Level D & E
Ninetta Violante, BA, MS
Captain, City of Decatur Fire Department, Decatur, GA
APG Quality Indicators addressed: QI 1, 2, & 3
Safety and special issues for emergency personnel when responding, special issues we consider when responding.
For the parent and families, what we tell our special needs community to be better prepared.
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
25
Pl a n n i n g C o mmitte e Me mbe rs
Anna Bullard, Director Community Outreach and Advocacy, Early
Autism Project, Inc., Board of Directors, Autism Society of Georgia Currently I am working to pass "Ava's Law" at the Georgia State Capitol to stop
insurance companies from denying treatment based on the diagnosis of
"autism." My mission is to ensure all children with autism spectrum disorder
in the state of Georgia and in the United States have access to quality
treatment. I am passionate about equality for mental health and advocate
for insurance coverage, school based service, and community and job
related services. I have lived in a small community most of my life and desire for all families to be
stable and self-sufficient with the appropriate resources to do so whether they live in a metro area
or rural south Georgia.
Early Autism Project
earlyautismproject.com
888-227-7212
Jason Cavin is a licensed professional counselor and board certified
behavior analyst. Jason serves as the Director of Behavior Support and
Consultation for the Center for Leadership in Disability. Jason works with
individuals, families, agencies and school systems to assist with individualized
positive behavior support initiatives, behavior support consultation, staff
training and organizational development.
Daniel Crimmins, PhD., IPH Clinical Professor and CLD Director.
Dr. Crimmins has an extensive background in program development in the
area of disability, with a particular interest in issues that reflect the intersection of research, policy, and practice. His scholarly contributions have
centered on autism and the assessment and interventions of behavior as
communication in individuals with disabilities. He is a former Robert Wood
Johnson Health Policy Fellow, serving on the staff of Senator Jim Jeffords in
2003. Dr. Crimmins is currently the president of AUCD, an organization of
over 100 interdisciplinary university centers.
disability.publichealth.gsu.edu
75 Piedmont Avenue
Suite 514
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-413-1281
cld@gsu.edu
disability.publichealth.gsu.edu
75 Piedmont Avenue
Suite 514
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-413-1281
cld@gsu.edu
Jennie Couture, M.Ed. is the Director of Practice and Support
Services in the Instructional Supports division at Bright from the Start:
Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning, Georgia’s early childhood
education agency. During her career, Jennie has provided direct education
and behavioral support to children and youth with disabilities and their
families in a variety of settings such as schools, hospitals, and early intervention in natural environments and has lead the development and administration of private and state-funded programs. In her current position, Jennie is
responsible for leading system-level efforts to increase high quality early childhood opportunities for
all children and their families, especially infants and toddlers and children with disabilities, through
partnerships and collaboration at the state and community level.
decal.ga.gov
2 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SE,
754 East Tower
Atlanta, Georgia 30334
404-656-5957
1-888-442-7735
26
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
Claire Dees, Community Engagement Manager for Parent to Parent of
Georgia, President of Spectrum Autism Support Group, Community
Advisory Board member for Center for Leadership in Disability, Gwinnett
Coalition of Health and Human Services Emergency Preparedness committee
member, Disability Liaison for Community Outreach for Perimeter Church.
Mother of 3, one of who lived with autism and greatly defined my life,
giving me a passion and purpose to help others with support, resources
and education.
p2pga.org
3070 Presidential Pkwy, STE 130
Atlanta, GA 30340-3720
770-451-5484
800-229-2038
Kimberly Dick – Autism Speaks Director, Field Development –
Georgia and Tennessee has been involved with the Autism Speaks for
seven years. Kimberly became involved shortly after her son, Caleb’s ASD
diagnosis in 2008. Since then, Kimberly has helped the states of Georgia &
Tennessee through corporate relationships, awareness, resources, and
assistance in passing state & federal legislation. Kimberly lives in Atlanta with
her husband Brad, their two children Caleb & Zoe and their Rhodesian
Ridgeback, Griffin.
Fozia Khan Eskew serves as the Early Intervention Coordinator at
the Georgia Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics since 2000. In
this capacity she has staffed among other committees, the Georgia AAP’s
Committee on Children with Disabilities which monitors aspects of early
intervention & care if developmental and behavioral disabilities in Georgia
and to plan a bi-annual Developmental Pediatrics Seminar at the Georgia
AAP’s bi-annual CME meetings. In addition, Fozia serves on the Board of
Directors of Innovative Solutions for Disadvantage and Disability.
900 Circle 75 Pkwy, STE 445
Atlanta, GA 30339
770-451-0570
autismspeaks.org/georgia
kimberly.dick@autismspeaks.org
1330 West Peachtree St. NW,
STE 500
Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: 404-881-5020
gaaap.org
Anne-Pierre Goursaud, Ph.D., is a behavioral neuroscientist at
the Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, as well as a
Biology Faculty at Georgia Gwinnett College and the Executive Director of
the Atlanta Autism Consortium, Inc. (a non-profit organization). She also
serves as a member of the Council for the Implementation of the Autism
Plan for Georgia. She taught for 5 years at Georgia State University in the
Psychology Department. Her research focuses on the brain mechanisms,
including amygdala, orbital frontal cortex and oxytocin, underlying social,
emotional and cognitive behaviors in nonhuman primates. Human applications of her research
include improving our understanding of the neurobiological differences associated with conditions
such as autism, ADHD, William's Syndrome, mood and anxiety disorders.
Mrs. Debbie Harbin is a Parent Advocate and co-founder of
Anchor of Hope Foundation. Her focus is on building community connections and supports for families and individuals with disabilities. She currently serves as a member of Region 2 DBHDD Planning Board, DBHDD
Leadership Council, Middle Georgia Regional Transition Council, Georgia
Future Facilitators, is secretary of Monroe County Family Connections, and
also chairs the Region 2 Quality Improvement Council. She is a retired
nurse, proud mother of six children, two of whom are on the spectrum,
four grandchildren with three more arriving soon.
atlantaautismconsortium.org
info@atlantaautismconsortium.org
41 West Johnston Street
Forsyth, GA 31029
anchorofhopefoundation.com
aohfoundation@gmail.com
Phone: 478-994-0438
Fax: 478-994-0439
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
27
Lillie Huddleston, Ph.D., recently joined the research faculty at the
Center for Leadership in Disability (CLD) at Georgia State University. Her
academic training is in the area of School Psychology. She comes to the
CLD from Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Human
Genetics, where she served as Director of Psychological Services for the
Down syndrome and Fragile X clinics. Dr. Huddleston’s current primary
role at the CLD is the coordination of a home-based early intervention
project for children with autism. She also serves as a member of the
evaluation team for the Autism Plan of Georgia.
Aleta Johannaber is a graduate student in the School of Public
Health at Georgia State University and is a Student Assistant in the Center
for Leadership in Disability.
Ray Johnson, Executive Director, Autism Society of Georgia has led the
growth of technology companies that include the launch, expansion and
turnaround of start-ups, early stage and mid-size businesses as well as the
growth and capture of new markets for established global leaders like AT&T
Wireless, AT&T and Newell Rubbermaid.Through his service and volunteer
work, he made the decision to transition his career to one that would
provide him the opportunity to give back and serve others through a
non-profit charitable organization. Johnson holds a BS in Business Administration with concentrations in Computer Science and Marketing from Boston College. He resides in
Roswell, GA with his wife and three (3) children. His desire and passion to make a difference
through Autism Society of Georgia is also fueled by a personal connection to autism through his 19
year old niece who is on the spectrum.
disability.publichealth.gsu.edu
75 Piedmont Avenue
Suite 514
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-413-1281
cld@gsu.edu
disability.publichealth.gsu.edu
75 Piedmont Avenue
Suite 514
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-413-1281
cld@gsu.edu
asaga.com/
8343 Roswell Road, STE 339
Atlanta, GA 30350
1-844-404-ASGa (2742)
404-994-3866
Patricia Lanaspa, mother of 2 sons. One son has just graduated from
GSU with a BS major in Chemistry, and another one diagnosed with
autism in South America when he was 4 yrs old. Regional Manager of
Parent to Parent of GA. GaLEND mentor, Chair of the Center for Leadership in Disability Community Advisory Board, bilingual medical interpreter.
p2pga.org/
Atlanta, GA 30340-3720
770-451-5484
800-229-2038
3070 Presidential Pkwy, STE 130
Janice Nodvin serves as Executive Director and Clinic Director for
Adult Disability Medical Home, which provides health and wellness to
teens adults with developmental disabilities. Mrs. Nodvin has over nine
years experience as an educator and has worked extensively as a parent
advocate and professional for over thirty years. She has supported and
initiated numerous community programs in the area of developmental
disabilities and serves on the Community Advisory Council of the Center
on Learning for Disabilities since its inception.
theadmh.org
Phone: 678-595-4854
Fax: 770-952-7810
nodvin.admh@gmail.com
28
AUTISM CONFERENCE & EXPO OF GEORGIA
Stacey Ramirez serves as the Director of Individual and Family
Supports at the Center for Leadership in Disability - Georgia State
University. Her efforts focus on community inclusion, cultural competence,
family support, person-centered planning, and human rights advocacy. Ms.
Ramirez regularly provides training for community members and educators
on the facilitation of person-centered planning and provision of culturally
competent family support. She is the proud mother of three boys, one of
whom has autism.
Debbie Reagin, Ed.D., is the Autism and Intellectual Disabilities
Program Specialist for the Georgia Department of Education. She has
worked in the field of Special Education in Georgia for over 40 years as a
teacher, diagnostician, supervisor and Special Ed Director. Debbie has
worked in DeKalb, Cobb, and Marietta City School Districts and is very
excited about the progress that has been made in providing services for
ALL students with disabilities, especially for students with autism. We have
come a long way, and will continue to grow by working collaboratively with
agencies represented in the Autism Plan for Georgia!
disability.publichealth.gsu.edu
75 Piedmont Avenue
Suite 514
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-413-1281
sramirez@gsu.edu
205 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive SE
Atlanta, GA 30334
404-656-2800
800-311-3627 (GA)
404-651-8737 (Fax)
askdoe@gadoe.org
gadoe.org
Cheryl Rhodes, MS, LMFT is a licensed Marriage and Family
Therapist with over 30 years of clinical, advocacy, and research experience
for children with disabilities and their families and expertise in early
intervention and child development. She is Director of Care Coordination
at the Marcus Autism Center. The program supports families raising children
on the autism spectrum and provides information and resources for parents,
siblings and grandparents.
Dr. Jennifer Stapel-Wax, Psy.D. is an Associate Professor in the
Division of Autism and Related Disorders in the Department of Pediatrics
at Emory University School of Medicine. She is also the Director of Infant
and Toddler Clinical Research Operations at the Marcus Autism Center at
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Her current focus on the research team is
to both participate in research on infants and toddlers at risk for autism
spectrum disorders centered at the Marcus Autism Center and direct efforts
and projects for infants and toddlers in the community and in public policy.
Miyah Sundermeyer supports the implementation of the Autism
Plan for Georgia for the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia
State University. She earned her associate of science degree in psychology
from Georgia Perimeter College. She also hopes to continue her education at GSU in physics. Miyah currently has a vlog on youtube called “Hello
World with Miyah Sundermeyer” which talks about her experiences of
living with Autism while shooting footage of her interests.
1920 Briarcliff Road
Atlanta, GA 30329
404-785-8931
marcus.org
1920 Briarcliff Road
Atlanta, GA 30329
404-785-8931
marcus.org
disability.publichealth.gsu.edu
75 Piedmont Avenue
Suite 514
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-413-1281
msundermeyer1@gsu.edu
The Autism Conference & Expo of Georgia greatly appreciates our Sponsors, Supporters, and Exhibitors:
Georgia Chapter
Accelerations Educational Software
Powertools for Autism and other learning disabilities
marcus.org
April 30, 2015
Director, Center for Leadership in Disability, GSU
Daniel Crimmins, Ph.D.
April 29-30, 2015
Autism Conference & Expo of Georgia, Macon GA
for attendance at
________________________
This certificate is awarded to:
Certificate of Attendance
AUTISM AWARENESS 2015
YOUNG LEADER TRAVEL AWARD COMPETITION
Presented by the Atlanta Autism Consortium, Inc.
and the Autism Society of Georgia
Georgia
Young Leader Travel Award Description
1) Offers a $250 scholarship to attend the 2015 Autism Conference &
Exposition of Georgia, in Macon, GA, on April 29 – 30
(scholarship covers conference fees including Conference Award Dinner, lodging and ground
transportation to Macon!
2) Gives the opportunity to present an informal poster and be recognized
on stage at CDC’s 2015 Autism Awareness Month event on April 16!
Awardees will also display and present their poster at the Conference
& Exposition of GA and will be formally introduced during the Awards
Dinner at the Conference.
3) FREE membership to the Atlanta Autism Consortium for ALL applicants!
2015 Travel Awardees
Sofia Campos, RN—graduate student in public health at Georgia State University.
Nicole Lim, MA—graduate student in developmental psychology at Georgia State University.
Jon Lonon—painter, clay artist, and swimmer in the Special Olympics
Joshua Suhl, PhD—postdoctoral student in genetics and genomics at Emory University.
DJ Svoboda—public speaker, author, artist, and creator of Imagiville
Matthew Vignieri, Med, EdS—school psychologist for Hall County School System.
ga-autismplan.org
The Autism Plan for Georgia addresses priorities of increased awareness of ASD among families, providers
and the general public; enhanced access and coordination of services and supports across the lifespan; and
improved awareness and utilization of effective practices in serving children and youth with ASD.
The plan addresses ten areas of activity that are key to achieving complete support for these children and
their families. The ten areas include:
•
•
•
•
•
Early Identification & Screening
Referral & Diagnosis
Health & Dental Services
Family Support
Early Intervention & Preschool Services
•
•
•
•
•
Elementary & Secondary Education
Community Services & Supports
Transition from Youth to Adult Systems
Adult Services & Supports
Emergency Preparedness & First Responders
In addition to the ten areas identified, five areas are the foundational supports of a comprehensive Autism Plan
that cut across many of the areas. The foundational areas are Workforce, Awareness, Informational Resources,
Finances, & Policy.
Funding to implement the Autism Plan for Georgia is provided by a grant from the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
The Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University is one of 67 University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) funded by the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services across the country. Since 2008, it has been housed within the Center for Healthy Development and the School of Public Health at Georgia State. Its mission is to
translate research into sustainable community practices that contribute to independent, self-determined, inclusive, and productive lives for people with disabilities and their families.