Annual Conference Draws More Than 1,200 Focused on Education, Information, and Resources

Autism New Jersey welcomed more than 1,200 attendees to Atlantic City for its annual conference on October 20 and 21. This year marked the event’s 40th anniversary and there was a lot to celebrate, including being back in person after two years of virtual gatherings. Attendees were offered more than 60 workshops, 100 exhibitors, and networking opportunities throughout the two-day event.

“Much of the conference’s value comes from educational opportunities and building relationships,” explained Autism New Jersey Executive Director Dr. Suzanne Buchanan. “For 40 years, Autism New Jersey has proudly hosted this community gathering to share best practices to get individuals with autism the services they need and deserve.”

“We were genuinely thrilled to be back together in person to see our power of connection on full display.”

Dr. Buchanan welcomed attendees by reaffirming the agency’s commitment to inform, connect, and advocate for the autism community. She continued by addressing the agency’s leading priorities including health, safety, and quality of life for individuals with autism, especially those with more profound autism.

Conference Highlights

Lorri Unumb, Esq. delivered the conference’s keynote address and offered perspectives on the past, present, and future of autism service delivery. Ms. Unumb, CEO of the Council of Autism Service Providers, presented to a packed room of families and professionals. Her unique perspectives as a mother of three sons, two of whom are on the autism spectrum, a lawyer, and an internationally renowned autism advocate were both incisive and inspirational.

Ms. Unumb’s keynote address was a fitting start to more than 60 workshops on a wide range of important topics. Nearly 10 workshops on the assessment and treatment of severe problem behavior, a panel highlighting two teens’ journeys of self-advocacy, awareness and acceptance, and several talks on diversity and inclusion within the autism community are just a few examples of topics available to attendees.

In addition, as part of the Advancing Healthcare Initiative, there were talks each day from medical professionals dedicated to medical-behavioral collaboration and improving access to healthcare for individuals with autism. From providing continuing education credits for professionals to financial planning resources for families, Autism New Jersey’s 40th Annual Conference truly provided a rich, exciting, and informative experience for everyone.

On-Demand Access

Attendees can continue to browse the library of recorded workshops, remain engaged on the community boards, and visit our exhibit booths with on-demand access through January 31, 2023.

Our platform includes community boards with dozens of discussion topics linking attendees, presenters, sponsors, self-advocates, and families to specific topics ranging from job openings for professionals to support groups for families.

Thank You

We thank our presenters, exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees for their support and engagement at our 40th annual conference. Together, we are creating a stronger community of those who can provide services with skill and compassion to help individuals with autism reach their full potential.

Save the Date

Join us for our 41st Annual Conference! October 19 & 20, 2023, Harrah’s Atlantic City