April 24: Free presentation explores challenges of college students with autism

Transitioning to college can be daunting, especially for students on the autism spectrum.

Learn the challenges faced by students with autism spectrum disorder at a free presentation from 6-7:30 p.m. on April 24 at the College of Lake County. The seminar will take place in Room A011 (A Wing Auditorium) on the Grayslake Campus, 19351 W. Washington St.

The presenter, Dr. Jane Thierfeld Brown, is an assistant clinical professor at Yale Child Study, Yale Medical School, and formerly the director of student services at the University of Connecticut School of Law. Her 37 years of experience in disability services includes directing a federal program on women and disabilities in higher education at Barnard College.

Brown is the co-author of three books: "Social Behavior and Self-Management: 5-Point Scales for Adolescents and Adults," "The Parent's Guide to College for Students on the Autism Spectrum" and "Students with Asperger's Syndrome: A Guide for College Personnel." She is a consultant at many higher education institutions and is a frequent keynote speaker at conferences on Asperger's syndrome.

"Dr. Brown is an amazing presenter and nationally-known speaker whose down-to-earth insightful approach will enhance your understanding of the college student with autism," said Thomas Crowe, CLC director of disability services. "After our faculty who met and heard Dr. Brown speak here in 2016 raved about her presentation, we wanted to bring her back."

Brown holds a bachelor's degree in speech pathology from the University of Rhode Island. She also earned an master's in counseling, a master's in education and an Ed.D. from Columbia University, Teachers College. Her research has examined students with Asperger's syndrome in higher education and students with disabilities in high-stakes graduate programs. Brown is the mother of three children, the youngest of whom has autism.

The presentation, which coincides with National Autism Awareness Month, is sponsored by CLC's Office for Students with Disabilities with support from the CLC Diversity Commission. For details, call (847) 543-2374 or email Crowe at tcrowe@clcillinois.edu.

For more information on the Office for Students with Disabilities, visit www.clcillinois.edu/osd.

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