<div class="Content"><p class="indent">McNeese State University will host an “Independence in Autism” conference 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Sept. 29 in Farrar Hall.</p><p class="indent">Sponsored by the McNeese Autism Program, Department of Psychology and the Burton College of Education, the program is open to all community members who have a background in Applied Behavior Analysis and its impact on individuals on the autism spectrum.</p><p class="indent">“As long as they are somewhat informed on the definitions and principles involved in ABA, people will find the conference useful,” explained Nidal Daou, assistant professor of psychology and co-organizer of the event.</p><p class="indent">The conference will focus on advances in the field of applied behavioral analysis, particularly concerning how to help foster independence within children, adolescent and adults on the spectrum.</p><p class="indent">“We need to program independence from the very beginning … (it’s) something that has to be taught and the sooner you start the more skillful you’ll be,” Daou said.</p><p class="indent">Dennis Reid, a behavior analyst and a supervisor in educational, residential and community support settings for people with autism and other developmental disabilities, will be the guest speaker for the conference. His presentation will include evidence-based strategies and discussions concerning the ethics, rehabilitation services and developmental practices that best promote independence within individuals with autism.</p><p class="indent">Dauo said skills for independence are not only medically necessary for individuals on the spectrum but also help increase their life enjoyment.</p><p class="indent">“There’s going to come a time when parents won’t be there … the more we program for independence, the better prepared they’ll be.”</p><p class="indent">“Independence in Autism” is free for McNeese students, faculty and for families participating in the McNeese Autism Program. For all other attendees, tickets can be purchased at <span class="text_link link_wrap type_url" data-link-type="URL" data-link-target="http://www.eventbrite.com/e/independence-in-autism-conference-tickets-48165830295">www.eventbrite.com/e/</span><span class="text_link link_wrap type_url" data-link-type="URL" data-link-target="http://www.eventbrite.com/e/independence-in-autism-conference-tickets-48165830295">independence-in-autism-conference-tickets-48165830295</span>.</p><p class="indent">Early registration is $30 before Sept. 15 and $70 if continuing education credits are to be earned. On site or late registration is $40 and $80 for continuing education credits. For more information, call 562-4246 or email <span class="text_link link_wrap type_eml" data-link-target="nnajjar@mcneese.edu" data-link-type="EML">nnajjar@mcneese.edu</span>.</p></div><p>Dennis Reid, a behavior analyst and a supervisor in educational, residential and community support settings for people with autism and other developmental disabilities, will be the guest speaker for the conference.</p>Special to the American Press