Utah Valley University (UVU) will host its annual Autism Conference on March 7 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the Orem Campus providing autistic individuals, educators, families, and professionals access to evidence-based strategies and tools that support individuals with autism in personal and professional settings.
There will be a pre-conference on March 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for educators, behavior analysts, and the public that will share compassionate approaches to problem behaviors. Same-day registration is $100 for both days.
This year’s conference theme, “Protective Factors,” emphasizes proactive approaches and best practices that teach individuals with autism how to succeed. Through expert-led sessions and discussions, attendees will gain insights to enhance support systems and promote meaningful impact.
“UVU has long been a leader in autism advocacy and education,” said Laurie Bowen, interim director at the Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism at UVU. “This conference is a direct response to the needs of our community, providing knowledge, resources, and hands-on approaches that make an immediate difference.”
Key highlights of the conference include:
- Keynote speaker: Dr. Erik Carter – Flourishing Together: Pathways to Friendship and the Power of Peers
- Pre-conference morning address: Dr. Greg Hanley – Today’s ABA: A Compassionate and Collaborative Approach for Improving Relationships and Behavior
- Breakout sessions covering mental health therapy, inclusive education strategies, suicide prevention, panel discussions, and direct support for individuals with autism and their families
- Community partnerships with UVU’s School of Education, the Autism Council of Utah, The Autism Resources of Utah County Council, and other key partners
- CEUs available for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and social work
“Knowledge, awareness, and resource access to families are needed in the community,” Bowen stated. “UVU is a university for the people and community, so we’re bringing content experts to help directly meet that need and empower students.”
Attendees will leave with compassion, actionable strategies, and strengthened connections within the autism community. UVU remains committed to exceptional care and accountability by providing a space for innovation and collaboration for all members of the UVU community.
