TCU College of Science & Engineering

6/6/13 9:09 AM

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Autism Speaks U at TCU: Changing the Future of Autism

By Jenna Simard, CSE communications intern Today, one in every 88 children is diagnosed with the autism. Autism Speaks, the worlds leading organization for autism research and advocacy, has enlisted college students to help. Autism Speaks U (ASU) is a program designed to get college students involved in awareness and fundraising efforts for Autism Speaks. ASU claims the disease is currently the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States. TCU students have now joined the effort to find a cure. TCU is now one of only three Texas universities with an ASU chapter, and one of 70 universities in the country. Since establishing the chapter on campus last year, Naomi Ekas, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology, and her students have raised approximately $3,200 for autism research. After acquiring a successful start, the chapter anticipates becoming more entrenched in the local autism community. Current chapter president Megan Pruitt first heard about ASU while working with Ekas in her psychology lab. Pruitts experience with autism research prompted the senior psychology major to institute the organization on the TCU campus. Its a good way for students to get involved with a great cause, Pruitt says of the program. Upcoming projects include a walk on TCUs campus in April, which is Autism Awareness month. Other initiatives include smaller-scale events like fundraiser nights at local restaurants and donation jars throughout campus. The organization also gives students the opportunity to interact with the Fort Worth autism community. Every month, the chapter coordinates a Fun Night at Wedgwood Academy, Fort Worths non-profit school for children with learning disabilities. On the last Friday of each month, members facilitate an evening of activities with the kids while their parents spend time to themselves. Its an opportunity to work one-on-one with the people were helping, Pruitt says. The chapter has quickly become actively involved in the local autism community. In less than a year, members have contributed to funding research, increasing awareness and supporting advocacy for individuals with autism. Through their efforts, TCU students are making strides toward achieving Autism Speaks goal to change the future of the disease.

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http://www.cse.tcu.edu/newsletter/2013-spring-AutismSpeaks.asp

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Student Research Symposium TCU IdeaFactory Monnig Meteorite Gallery

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TCU College of Science & Engineering

6/6/13 9:09 AM

Pre-Health Professions Psychology School of Geology, Energy & The Environment

Monnig Meteorite Gallery Institute of Behavioral Research Energy Institute

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http://www.cse.tcu.edu/newsletter/2013-spring-AutismSpeaks.asp

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