In recognition of National Autism Awareness Month, Autism Center, Navicent Health and Mercer University’s Tift College of Education will partner to offer the community the inaugural Autism Spring Symposium. The symposium will take place on April 2, World Autism Day, in order to offer knowledge, training and resources to children and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder.
 
“I am elated that the Tift College of Education at Mercer University is partnering with Navicent Health and its Autism Center. Our upcoming symposium will bring together experts in the field from a variety of disciplines working together to provide resources, instruction and services. Our partnership represents a unique community-based integrative response by sharing hope and help with children and their families affected by autism,” said Dr. Jim Barta, Dean of the Tift College of Education.
 
The Spring Symposium will begin at 8:00 a.m. at Mercer’s Medical School Auditorium (1550 College Street, Macon). Speakers will discuss education initiatives, clinical research and early diagnoses. After a brief recess at 1:00 p.m., participants will be invited to tour ACNH (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon) between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
 
“Our goal to promote the earliest possible screening, diagnosis and intervention, with evidence-based treatment, so children with Autism Spectrum Disorder may reach their full potential in life. A well informed parent becomes an even more effective advocate for their child, leading to greater access to important ASD support services. We invite our community to join us for the Spring Symposium,” said Tripp Ritchie, Director of ACNH.
 
To register for this free symposium, please call 478-301-2249 or visit www.tinyurl.com/mercerautism. If you suspect that your child may have ASD or if your child has been diagnosed with ASD, contact ACNH at 1-844-482-2264 to learn about the options and services available for families.