Beyond the Label: Stories of Success
Inspiring stories of individuals on the autism spectrum who, with support and therapy, have navigated challenges to lead productive and fulfilling lives.
Temple Grandin, PhD
Early Challenges
Experienced delayed speech, not speaking until she was nearly four years old.
Support & Strategies
Benefited from early speech therapy and supportive mentors who nurtured her unique visual thinking abilities.
Achievements
Became a renowned professor at Colorado State University and a global innovator in humane livestock handling.
Stephen Shore, EdD
Early Challenges
Was non-verbal until the age of four, with professionals recommending institutionalization.
Support & Strategies
His parents advocated for him, leading to intensive early supports focused on his strengths and interests.
Achievements
Is now a clinical assistant professor at Adelphi University, focusing on special education and autism.
Jordyn Zimmerman
Early Challenges
Was non-verbal and denied access to effective communication (AAC) until she was 18 years old.
Support & Strategies
Gaining access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) combined with inclusive education unlocked her potential.
Achievements
Earned a Bachelor's, Master's in Education, and an MBA, and now works as a passionate educator and advocate.
Haley Moss, Esq.
Early Challenges
Navigated the social and academic complexities of the education system while managing her autistic traits.
Support & Strategies
Utilized school-based supports and accommodations that allowed her to thrive academically.
Achievements
In 2019, became the first openly autistic lawyer to be admitted to the Florida Bar.
Anthony Ianni
Early Challenges
Faced bullying and misunderstanding from peers and teachers due to his autistic traits.
Support & Strategies
Thrived through a strong support system of family, inclusion programs, and dedicated mentoring.
Achievements
Became the first known autistic basketball player in NCAA Division I history and authored the book "Centered."
Kalin Bennett
Early Challenges
Doctors gave a grim prognosis that he might never learn to walk or talk properly.
Support & Strategies
Overcame early prognoses with dedicated support from his mother and a focus on his passion for basketball.
Achievements
Signed to play Division I basketball and became the first player with autism to score in a D-I game.
